This is part 10 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “Animals” photo album is “Canmore Elk“. I took this photo July 28th, 2009 at 11:43 AM some just down the street from where I was staying in Canmore Alberta. This one I took with my Canon EOS10D SLR.
Canmore Alberta Elk
I was so sick after the race because of a severe sinus infection that I was not feeling like doing anything but lay around. It took me until 11 to get out of bed but I knew that this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to get out and do some sightseeing which was not possible before the race.
The crew was gone and I forced myself to go out and take some photos so that when I did feel better I could enjoy the beauty I was surrounded by. I did a all afternoon jaunt that the helpful desk attendant and I conjured up. Looking back now as I sit here on the verge of the weekend I am enjoying and wishing for a road trip. That will come I suppose.
Oops, looks like I’ve time-traveled a bit—it’s actually part 9 of my photo homage series! Today, we’re diving into my “Culture” album to shine a spotlight on “Rural Canada.” This gem was captured on July 22, 2009, at 1:31 PM, somewhere in the scenic expanse stretching between the Canadian border and Calgary.
Granted, the photo’s not winning any awards for clarity (my trusty Canon SD1000 decided to get artsy with the edges), but there’s something about those tranquil blue and green stripes that just soothes the soul. It showcases the agricultural grace of Canada, a scene that’s just a tad different from its American cousins. Maybe it’s the way Canadian farms and silos manage to look like they’ve just stepped out of a painting, all neat and orderly, that caught my eye.
2010: Rural Canada – A photographic homage to the scenic beauty between the Canadian border and Calgary.
This photo is wrapped up in the warm fuzzies of nostalgia, as it was snapped on my way to the World 24 Hour Solo Championships with my pals Sten, Bob, and Rich. Picture this: me, behind the wheel, channeling my inner action hero to take a one-handed shot out the window. It’s moments like these—slightly reckless, but utterly memorable—that make for the best stories, don’t you think?
On This Day In History
On this day in history a delightful array of stories unfold on my blog. Here’s a look back at the engaging tales and adventures shared:
2008: Not a Good Sign – An enigmatic entry that leaves readers pondering.
Ah, welcome to part 8 of my little blog odyssey, where I tip my hat to the crème de la crème of my 2009 photo collection. Today’s VIP entry, making its grand entrance into my “Abstract” album, is none other than “Water Color.” Captured on the morning of June 6, 2009, at 9:22 AM, in the scenic vicinity of Missoula, Montana, with my beloved Canon PowerShot SD1000 in hand.
Now, calling this masterpiece “abstract” might be stretching it a bit, but hey, that’s the kind of quirky decision one makes when categorizing photos at an ungodly hour. It’s like naming a cat “Dog” and insisting it’s a revolutionary concept. So, is it genuinely abstract, or am I just serving you a plate of hot air?
I still vividly recall the moment I snapped this picture. I was idly biding my time for my training buddy Zeph to show up for our grueling threshold intervals up Butler Creek Road. The weather was doing its best impression of a gloomy British day—cold, wet, and downright dreary. Yet, in my heart, I knew Zeph, the embodiment of hardcore, would brave the elements. Except, she didn’t. So, there I was, left to my own devices, getting intimately acquainted with sandy mud in a way I never thought possible.
Water Color
Later, the plot twist unfolded—Zeph did turn up, but our wires got crossed. She ventured up Grant Creek Road, placing her on one mountain ridge, and me on another. You see, when I said “Snow Bowl,” apparently, that was her cue. Ah, the irony. Well, that’s life for you—full of missed connections and muddy adventures.
On This Day In History
2006: Web Site Gone – A candid post about the challenges of losing a website and the struggles of rebuilding it with limited resources.
2002: Exhausted – Reflecting on the raw feeling of exhaustion after an adventurous trek in the woods, this blog post captures the essence of pushing one’s limits.
2002: Training on Schedule – A glimpse into the disciplined world of mountain bike training, celebrating the milestones of weight loss and fitness.
I know June may not be thought of as a spring month but here in Missoula it usually is. But that isn’t why I called it Spring Sun (I know my naming conventions are hokey). I called it Spring Sun because no mater how ominous the forecast or appearances of the day, spring is a constant ray of sunlight that turns everything into beauty. This is especially appropriate right now as it seems like spring out but we all know it is not.
Thinking of a short recovery hike tonight so if anyone is interested contact me.
On This Day In History
2008: Lolo Hot Springs Ride – A recount of a scenic ride past Lolo Hot Springs, setting the stage for an even grander cycling challenge.
2008: Broken Shifter – An unexpected turn during a bike ride leads to a reflective moment at City Brew, with plans for a hike and more adventure.
2007: Getting Ready to Go – Preparations for a journey, from oil changes to air filter challenges, all narrated with a sense of anticipation and adventure.
2004: Waiting To Be Laid Off – A personal reflection amidst job uncertainty, capturing the emotional landscape of facing potential layoff.
2002: Wallingford Mountain Biking – A muddy but exhilarating mountain biking adventure in Wallingford, marking a weekend well spent in nature’s embrace.
Whoa, hold the phone! Let’s take a quick break from our regularly scheduled blogging extravaganza to dish out some fresh-off-the-press news. Yesterday’s cycling adventure turned out to be a rollercoaster ride in what felt like the heart of spring. So, the eagerly awaited “Best Photos of 2009” feature will just have to wait until tomorrow.
I embarked on my go-to Bitterroot escapade yesterday, clocking in a cool 75 miles on my trusty cross bike. As my knobbies serenaded the pavement, I ventured onto a medley of terrains – sandy dirt roads, gravel, and paths littered with rocks were just the appetizers. I managed to scope out three roads that had been haunting my dreams: Upper Woodchuck, Ambrose Creek Road, and the elusive Burnt Fork Roads.
The snapshot from Upper Woodchuck Road? A total letdown. Despite the epic dirt road climb that got me in the zone, a buzzkill sign declared everything beyond was private property. Just great, another slice of paradise gobbled up by some mega-corporation with more dollars than sense. Reluctantly, I turned back, dreams dashed by the harsh reality of land grabs.
Back in the day, you could waltz into forest service land from any which way. Now, it’s like Fort Knox, with private lands playing gatekeeper to what’s supposedly ours. It’s a real bummer.
Next stop, Ambrose Creek Road – a mixed bag, but in a strangely positive way. I’m betting that once summer sends winter packing, I’ll be able to venture further. For now, a snow blockade had other plans.
The third leg of my quest actually delivered. The Burnt Fork Roads – North, South, and Middle – were a feast for the eyes, with asphalt giving way to vistas that screamed ‘adventure this way’ towards forest service lands. Alas, Father Time and the setting sun had me on a tight leash, so “up the creek” remains a mystery… for now. But I’ll be back, you can bet on that.
I did the usual Bitterroot getaway yesterday and popped off a 75 mile ride on my cross bike. With knobbies humming up the pavement I soon found other surface types. Sandy dirt road, gravel, and dirt road strewn with rocks where just a few. I was able to investigate three roads that I had on my mind, Upper Woodchuck, Ambrose Creek Road, and the Burnt Fork Roads.
On This Day In History
2008: Unattached From City Brew – Good morning. The weekend is finally here as well as rain, snow, and high winds.
2007: Cooking In The Dark – I was up this morning enjoying a cup of coffee and planning my day.
2006: Web Site Problems – FutureHosting.Biz is the company that hosts this site.
2006: Web Lodge Gets Free Rent – A curious entry with a hint of adventure and a dash of mystery.
2005: Back From Lolo Peak Ridge – Last Saturday my friend Alden and I took a snow shoe up the East Ridge of Lolo Peak.
2004: New Pictures From Mom – Heads up, readers! Mom’s latest photos are up in the “Buckey’s” section, found under “Life in Yuma.”
2004: New Batteries – My mom just got a new charger and I checked into it. It appears to be a great new technology.
2002: MTB at Brookfield Park Awesome – Hey there, long time no see – or, you know, long time no post! I’m still kickin’, just been swamped with bouncing back from pushing my limits a tad too much and gearing up for a big move.
This is part 5 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “Mountains” photo album is “Montana“. I took this photo April 12th, 2009 at 6:28 AM just 28 minutes from yesterday’s photo. I was headed to Butte to see Bob and go riding and Montana welcomed me with beautiful mountain scenes. I like this photo because of the colors and the stark whiteness of the mountain tops that interrupt the color. I called it Montana because it is these scenes that brought me back home to Montana many years ago.
I got up this morning to hit the trails first thing before it warmed up. The sun was just starting to make an appearance when i went outside to check conditions. It was freaking warm and the birds were out chirping. I feared mud and slush.
I reached the trails up to Pattee (MoZ Trail) and found them bone dry. Coming back I ripped the downhill so hard South Sentinel was surprised to find its shorts down around its ankles. Embarrassed it shrug me off its slopes.
In the interior of Pattee and Crazy (what we call em) it was ice and real firm snow. Perfect conditions for screw tires. I had a blast and even climbed Sentinel to salute the city below for the second weekend in a row. I sit now at Green Hanger, doing laundry, and contemplating tomorrow’s 5 hour ride. Want to go? Call.
Montana from Wiki, “The western third of the state contains numerous mountain ranges; other ‘island’ ranges are found in the central third of the state, for a total of 77 named ranges of the Rocky Mountains. This geographical fact is reflected in the state’s name, derived from the Spanish word monta
This is part 4 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “People” photo album is “Push“. I took this photo April 12th, 2009 at 6:01 AM as I was driving up from Idaho Falls and heading to Pipestone for a ride with some friends.
I had just spent the night at a rest stop just north of Idaho Falls. The day before that was Saturday and the Barking Spider Mountain Bike Race where I took top honors. Really it was the first road trip of the season and I can remember loving being all alone out on the road. I found it relaxing.
Last night was anything but relaxing and fun until I sat my cheeks down at the Bridge Pizza with a couple TNR buddies. What great tasting pizza at the ‘Bridge’. It was my last blood letting 3 week block of threshold intervals. I found last night stressful for the following reasons: 1) I was mentally and physically a little burned from all the training. 2) For some odd reason I cant raise my heart rate when I run. Full out on a flat surface I can barely get into zone three and maintain it. Its like zone 5 on the bike. 3) Trail conditions were the worst. Sixty five feet of slush had me doing the backstroke to the climb. Once on the climb ninety eight thousand feet of crusty post hole to face plant snow had to be overcome. It sucked.
Today more than most I really wish I were out on the road, pushing my shadow across the great plains.
On this day in history:
2008: Cyclist v.s. Mother Nature – Oh, today’s the day for a beastly two-hour spin! Who’s up for the challenge?
2006: Blackfoot Ride To Potomac – Hey there, friends! Bill checking in after a fantastic day that ended with me glued to the closing ceremonies of the Olympics.
2005: Lolo Peak Area Today – My friend Alden Wright and I have teamed up this weekend to snowshoe up a East ridge of Lolo Peak.
2004: JOB UPDATE – As you all know the government has canceled comanche. Sikorsky aircraft along with UTC has no clue what to do with us.
2003: Computer Funnies – At a recent computer expo (COMDEX), Bill Gates reportedly compared the computer industry with the auto industry.
2002: Me Fat – Today is blue. I am blue because my body fat reduction and/or weight are not where I want it to be. I seem to be gaining weight with muscle mass.
From the latest outdoor misadventures back to a time of personal reflections and career uncertainties, this list offers a chronological reverse journey through the captivating and varied experiences shared in blog form.
This post marks the third entry in my series celebrating my top 2009 photos. Today, I highlight “Morning Trail,” captured on March 14, 2009, as dawn broke over South Sentinel. It embodies the quintessential Missoula moment for any mountain biker—the return to town from Pattee Canyon, greeted by the cityscape.
That morning was set for a City Brew meet-up, aimed at combining scones, website work, and, of course, a pre-meet bike ride to assess the trail’s conditions.
With tonight’s TNR hike, I’m gearing up early for one last intense training session before joining fellow enthusiasts for a night of sharing tales, insights, and philosophies. It’s also a chance to spot the latest in trail gear, like the trend of reinforced shoes.
And let’s not forget: “Race Across The Sky” is just two weeks away!
ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY, A DELIGHTFUL JOURNEY THROUGH THE ARCHIVES:
2009: Dirt Coalition – Sharing aspirations to join the GT Dirt Coalition, and catching up on the internet during a rest break from a decent block of training.
2008: Hard Miles – A recount of a challenging 60-mile ride up route 200 in the rain, bringing about a sense of unexpected energy and strength.
2007: Lolo Pass Ride – An ambitious 66.1-mile journey to Lolo Pass, featuring around 5,000 feet of climbing and a cramp that led to late-night blogging.
2007: I Just Keep Ending up Here! – A cozy moment at the Break Espresso, savoring a Carmel roll and a cup of Joe, a simple pleasure amidst biking adventures.
2006: Turah Turah Ride Tonight – Reflecting on a great training ride to Turah and back, feeling good all the way home compared to a previous exhausting experience.
2006: New Pictures Uploaded – The challenge of organizing and uploading pictures likened to herding caffeinated cats, all while chilling at Break Espresso.
2003: What I really Want – A moment of technological simplification, desiring only the essentials like a new camera and a powerbook for summer adventures.
2002: Emotional Alchemy – Sharing the anticipation for a book called “Emotional Alchemy,” following an outstanding mountain bike ride and a need for rest.
This curated list of blog posts offers a glimpse into my biking adventures, poetic reflections, and life’s simple moments, painting a vivid picture of the journey through years.
This is part 2 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “Cycling” photo album is “Spirit“. In this photo Zepahnie Blasi takes a moment from our ride to take in the Pipestone Valley.
The vastness of what can be achieved on a mountain bike is what I think I was going for but really I didn’t know what to call it. I just like it.
In reality she was waiting for the rest of the group to catch up so maybe I should of called it “Hurry up suckers” or “I am kicking your asses”. But I just like the elements and how they work together. Like the big mountain range and the yearning to go explore them on a mountain bike. Like the dirt and what looks like warmth (this is a winter shot).
You should try Pipestone, give Bob at Triple Ring Productions a call! IF your coming from Missoula, give me a {FREE} ride. I don’t do “special” favors either so don’t ask.
FEB 24 IN HISTORY:
2008: Great Riding in Seeley – Chronicles a training ride to Seeley Lake and supporting friends at the Snow Joke Half Marathon.
2007: Home Safely – A brief update on a safe return home and a casual mention of enjoying “Double Haul” at the “Board Room.”
2007: Product Review – Sharing insights from a 50-mile ride, including the aftermath of cleaning up and a hearty pasta meal.
2002: Sleeping Giant Hike – A recount of a challenging hike that could tire even Paul Bunyan, exploring the Sleeping Giant.
2002: Cool – COOL: Discovering a website dedicated to the frequently hiked mountain range.
Heads up, folks! “Race Across The Sky” is hitting Missoula in just two weeks, and guess what? Rebecca’s rolling into town for it too. This is our cue to get the word out and maybe, just maybe, turn it into the bash of the season. Thinking snacks, drinks, the whole nine yards. Anyone got connections at Bayern or Kettlehouse to amp up the party vibes?
Given it’s on a Thursday night, I’m betting the Thursday Night Ride (TNR) crew will be in on the action. Let’s make it a night to remember – who’s in for making some noise and turning this into a party? Drop a line if you’re down!
On this day in history, let’s dive into the captivating tales from my blog, each entry marking a unique snapshot of life’s adventures and musings:
2010: Pipestone – Bill dedicates a post to his favorite photos of 2009, starting with “Pipestone,” a captivating image that speaks volumes about friendship and the road less traveled.
2009: Grand Ride in Bitterroots – Bill recounts a grand ride in the Bitterroots, weaving in themes of perseverance, nature’s beauty, and the joy of cycling.
2008: Its Off to Seeley Lake – A narrative about a spontaneous trip to Seeley Lake, reflecting on the excitement and unpredictability of pre-season riding.
2007: I’m No Fake – A candid exploration of authenticity and the complexities of human interaction, challenging readers to reflect on their own experiences.
2004: Pentagon to Cancel Comanche – A post discussing the Pentagon’s decision to cancel the Comanche helicopter program, offering insights into military procurement and policy.
2004: New Poem in Literature Menu – Bill shares a new poem dedicated to his mother, blending personal reflection with artistic expression.
2002: What’s Up In Plattsburgh? – A light-hearted investigation into the quiet happenings of Plattsburgh, showcasing Bill’s curiosity and engagement with his community.
2002: Psycho – A chilling recount of a late-night call from an ex-girlfriend, opening a window into the darker, more mysterious aspects of life and relationships.
This is part 1 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “Plains” photo album is “Pipestone”. In the far distance you can see four riders Sten, Bob, Zephanie, and Chad, who had just missed a right hand turn.
First off I would like to step up on the podium for an announcement. Bob Waggoner and his company Triple Ring Productions are responsible for the Butte 100 and the 8 Hours of Labor mountain bike races. I believe Montana’s best. TRP is my sponsor this year as well so not only check out these races but if you get a chance let Bob know how much he is appreciated by us mountain bikers. Hey, if you don’t want to race those races are great fun and also fun to volunteer in.
Stepping off now today’s favorite photo ties in nicely with what I just mentioned. Last winter I was preparing for the 24 Solo Worlds and decided to stay on the bike all winter instead of ski. Not only a bike but a mountain bike. Bob made this possible by hosting a dozen Pipestone trips which looking back was like mini training camps.
The objective was dirt and we got lots of it. Zephanie and Chad joined me in the other side of pipestone when we got introduced to the mud on a rainy day but for the most part Pipestone is a dry oasis in the middle of winter to go mountain biking. If anyone wants to go I am sure Bob and I can set something up.
Most of the time it was Sten, Rich, Long lost Jim, Bob and I. We met and we made dirt angles (you must see one to understand). This photo was taken after a long fast downhill stretch going back to the vehicles. Along the way just before a right hand turn is a junk pile that includes some old rusty car chassis. I mean real old, like model T style. I stopped for a vantage point that I thought made me feel at home here in the west. An old mode of transportation enjoying retirement with a good view. New mountain bike contraptions whizzing by. Kind of a bicycles triumph over the big iron fossil fuelers.
Then it is Pipestone, dry, old west, and it middle of winter. i see this photo and it brings me back to the good old days of Bobs training camps. Next year we must do it again. for now, damn its looking like spring.
On this day in history, let’s dive into the captivating tales from my blog, each entry marking a unique snapshot of life’s adventures and musings:
2009: Grand Ride in Bitterroots – Bill recounts a grand ride in the Bitterroots, weaving in themes of perseverance, nature’s beauty, and the joy of cycling.
2008: Its Off to Seeley Lake – A narrative about a spontaneous trip to Seeley Lake, reflecting on the excitement and unpredictability of pre-season riding.
2007: I’m No Fake – A candid exploration of authenticity and the complexities of human interaction, challenging readers to reflect on their own experiences.
2004: Pentagon to Cancel Comanche – A post discussing the Pentagon’s decision to cancel the Comanche helicopter program, offering insights into military procurement and policy.
2004: New Poem in Literature Menu – Bill shares a new poem dedicated to his mother, blending personal reflection with artistic expression.
2002: What’s Up In Plattsburgh? – A light-hearted investigation into the quiet happenings of Plattsburgh, showcasing Bill’s curiosity and engagement with his community.
2002: Psycho – A chilling recount of a late-night call from an ex-girlfriend, opening a window into the darker, more mysterious aspects of life and relationships.
Today work has presented me with the usual boss conflicts and mental mish mash. Its a case of the Mondays. To clear my mind I will set forth to write down some notes on yesterday’s great ride.
Sunday the sun rose and it looked like a stunning day. Once you stepped out the door you were quickly reminded that it is still winter. When I headed over to the coffee shop (for some tea and wifi) it was about 15 degrees. I started to wonder if I shouldn’t go mountain biking for 5 hours instead of the planned Bitterroot road ride. By the time I finished my emails and headed back home it had warmed to 25 so I figured that by 1 it would be 30 which is doable if the sun was shinning and the pavement was dry. It should be a good day.
I was no surprise to me that I was going out to Lolo alone around 12:30 because with cold temps everyone seems to huddle inside. When I rolled past the “proposed Bitterroot Resort” it was 31 degrees and I was feeling great. The sun was out and the day’s possibilities were limitless. The only thing I was worried about was my Carbo Rocket freezing up. It never did though because the day warmed to just above freezing which was really comfy for doing some hills. Yea! I found some hills …. and dirt.
As I cycled my way to the “East Side” and the East side highway I decided to explore all those roads I have wondered about. Where did they go? How far could I go up them? Are they paved? I always wanted to go up 9 Mile Creek Road, 3 Mile Creek Road, and Ambrose Creek Road.
I took a spur off of the 9 Mile Road road called the Lower Woodchuck (I am planning on discovering the Upper Woodchuck Road next) road which quickly turned to dirt and started to climb. Suddenly I was out in what appeared to be nowhere just like in Eastern Montana. But after 3 miles or so it was turn around time. Yea, it turned to private land. Oh well there as more to explore.
Staying on the 9 Mile Road it started to climb but with different views and terrain. It was of much more creek and gully type and apparently some rich folks owned some land up here. Turn around time was on dirt back country road that quickly turned to ice and snow. I would check out this little gem later.
Back down the 9 Mile Road road it spurred again to the Granite Creek Road which wound up through this box like canyon and just fizzled out into some highlands properties.
Most of the day was over so I decided to try and head up the East Side Highway to another road called Ambrose Creek Road that I had always wanted to explore. I knew I wouldn’t get too far before I need to turn around to get back to the car before dark. I ended up passing a road called 3 Mile Road which I remember from reading maps. I headed up that to see what I could find and I found a gem to be discovered later. This road possibly will tie into forest service and up to some divide trails. Ill have to take the mountain bike up this later in the year as it was closed.
The day was over and I rode back to the car. I was presented with sun set views which reminded me why I love riding in the Root. It was a beautiful and day of discovery. I think there is a lot of roads I need to explore in the Root but that will have to wait until this weekend.
The conditions were perfect for winter mountain biking. Warm weather had given over to cold weather, specially at night. On top of it all the trails have been trampled by a week of spring anxious hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. I noticed the trail condition on last week’s Thursday Night Hike. It was packed snow, ice, and some bear ground. Give it all a good chilling over night and in the morning mountain biking with screw tires would be optimal.
I jumped out of bed yesterday and quickly twittered what I was about to do. I had to give folks a chance to call cementing their place in history. This morning would be a great ride. I got the bike up on the stand and realized that I may have to wait just a little longer to get out their on the trails. I didn’t think it would warm up too much so I took my time and put on new brakes and transferred my saddle from the road rig. I lubed my parts and quieted all those crackling squeaky housing interfaces. Winter cycling takes a bike from warm to extreme cold and back inside. There is a lot of thawing and freezing, things start to dry out and make noises. Like my body.
I took my camera along to take some photos as surely there would be opportunity.
Finally I was out their and my assumptions were correct. The conditions were almost perfect. I say almost because we did get a skiff of snow on Friday and that tiny layer sometimes made the icy a little ‘touch and go’ at times. Overall it was excellent. I found myself on the saddle between Sentinel and University contemplating going for the top.
A couple was hiking down the mountain so I decided to lean against a tree and wait for them to pass. The sun was warm and very nice. I started to think about the decent back into town and how it might be thawed out and greasy. “Oh my god, there IS a mountain biker out here”, I overheard the dude say to his female companion. She muttled something back to him.
“NO, I am impressed. That’s OK! He can be out here”, he replied back to her.
Instantly I was hoping a big grizzly bear would come out of the woods and snatch this “ice witch” from his side and fling her back and forth like a rag doll. Obviously he was a cool dude but this little judgmental woman angered me. But that is ok, because the bear has taken care of her.
The little mental visual came to and end when he approached and expressed his astonishment that I was even able too get this far. I replied back, I do this every day (which isn’t true but what the hell right?). I said have a nice day and jetted up the trail. I sensed their eyes upon me as I cleared the first part of the climb with ease. I thought, “yea, take that you greenhorns”.
Suddenly I found myself in zone 4 (bad boy) heading up the headwall on Sentinel just before the summit. I made it about 20 feet and the screws gave way on some ice and I spun a bit. This made me steer to the right and off line and in a matter of moments my mentally hard focus cracked and I posted a foot down. DOH! But I did almost clear the entire thing in the middle of winter which is a first for me.
It was a blue bird say as skier folkin would say. I bombed down the decent and headed up University Ridge. Lets just see how far we can go today. I came to my senses and turned my wheels down the Upper Intestine trail and then down the Gut trail. This completed a figure 8
Dive into these snapshots of life’s adventures, from musings on the simplicity of daily moments to the thrill of outdoor exploration. Each post is a testament to the journey of self-discovery and the ever-evolving adventure of life.
As I drag my dead body to bed I just took a look at a photo of today’s recovery hike in the North hills or what I call it the Orange Street Trail. I have my old Canon 10D Digital SLR out and have been thinking of photography a lot lately. Recent photos done with the new SD780 has sparked some creative juices.
You would think a 12 megapixel point and shoot could compete with a 6 megapixel SLR. There is a reason I paid $1,500 bucks for that thing (current worth is like 300 bucks). The photos taken by the large heavy device are simply beautiful technically compared to the little device that thinks it can.
I took some photos while up in Canmore last July and I noticed a certain smooth elegant beauty to the photos. Probably because they more closely resemble real photos while in this day and age we have been getting accustom to phone photos. The new little point and shoots ‘seem’ to be kick ass but that is only because we have become ‘OK’ with sub standard art. Sad really.
Don’t get me wrong the photo to the right demonstrates that I have some pretty good control. When enlarged to 100% looks like a corn maze. The “big sensor” camera … smooth transitions.
ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY:
2008: Road Riding West of Missoula Day 2 – A repeat of a challenging route with a friend, complete with dubbed climbs and a touch of humor to lighten the grueling journey.
2008: So What is Boneshakerbike – An origin story of sorts, Bill explains the significance behind his email addresses and account names, linked to his biking team and the handcrafted bikes they rode.
2007: Another Day, Another Turn of the Crank – A contemplative morning in Missoula, Montana, sparks thoughts on the joys of mountain biking and the beauty of Big Sky country.
2002: Great Day For a Mountain Bike Ride – Bill shares his enthusiasm for a day perfect for mountain biking, along with plans for a hike with his dog, highlighting the simple pleasures of outdoor activities.
2001: 2 Hour Ride – A light-hearted post-ride reflection, Bill compares his biking adventures to the comedic twists of the movie “Shanghai Noon,” finding joy in the unexpected.
Each post, a story; each story, a memory etched into the trails of time, inviting you to pedal along through the pages of my adventures.
I rocked up to the UofM parking lot near the ‘M’ trail, a solid 15 before the Missoula Thursday Night Mountain Bike Group was set to kick off another epic night of adventure and camaraderie (as seen in photo #5, pure gold). You could feel the buzz; bike season’s knocking on the door.
Kicked off my interval workout with the hopes of bumping into the crew towards the end. And guess what? Timing couldn’t have been more spot-on. Wrapped up my third interval at the top of Sentinel, zipped down the old ridge, and bam—merged with the trail some 900 feet lower, right into the chatter of the group. Felt like I’d nailed an adventure race challenge, dodging any chance encounters till the tail end of my last sprint.
The rest of the evening? Pure TNR magic. My energy was sky-high, thanks to my trusty Carbo Rocket, and I even had some Hammer Gel on standby for those grunt-worthy moments.
We trekked down the south side towards the Kim Williams trail, navigating a long, icy descent with my trusty screwed shoes. Some brave souls opted for a “Butt Luge” down the trail—hilarious, till a rogue rock played spoiler.
Our adventure wrapped with a cross-town cyclo-cross to a buddy’s place, where we were greeted with steaming bowls of friendship soup and, believe it or not, opium bread. Just your average Thursday night in Missoula, right?
Today, I was all about that nutrition game, aiming for my “gazelle figure” to conquer the Butte 100 without biting the dust.
Each post captures a unique moment, from thrilling adventures to contemplative reflections, embodying the spirit of evolving adventures through the years.
My default training interval photo for all the posts about working out.
Man, the dread was real yesterday. I was mentally gearing up for the workout, but honestly, my enthusiasm was dragging its feet until my rear end finally graced the bike saddle. With the weather teasing us with a slight warm-up, any hopes I had for a crisp ride on frozen single-track were dashed. And just to sprinkle a bit of salt on the wound, the skies opened up, sending down a drizzle as I pedaled my way through Helgate Canyon towards Clinton.
On the agenda were two torturous 30-minute time trials smack dab in heart rate zone 3. Now, I’m the first to admit I’m not exactly the poster child for endurance; a half-hour of pushing it usually has me questioning my life choices. But, would you believe it? Those minutes ticked by without me turning into a grumbling mess or my brain going on a strike against me.
The first round felt like a breeze, almost fun, and I was riding that high of success when I kicked off the second go. That’s when reality bit hard. Trying to ramp my heart rate back up felt like trying to start a fire in a downpour, and comfort was a distant memory all the way back home. Still, I made it back, oddly thankful for the ride. Maybe it was the Carbo Rocket working its magic, or just the sheer relief of finishing, but as I washed out my bottles, already reaching for the Recoverite, I found myself pumped to do it all over again today.
On this day in history, let’s dive into the eclectic and adventurous world of my blog, showcasing a variety of experiences and insights:
Yesterday? Oh, it was epic—a total redemption day. I decided to wipe the slate clean of last week’s mess-ups by crushing it on my road bike. The plan? Rack up so many miles that any shortfalls would just vanish into thin air. Maybe it was this gung-ho attitude, or perhaps sheer denial, that made me completely oblivious to my heart rate monitor’s silence. I mean, it should’ve been buzzing me to take it easy, right? Nope. Instead, I went full beast mode, clocking in a whopping 85 miles in 5 hours, and ending up in a total daze of delirium.
Turns out, my trusty heart rate monitor pulled a fast one on me, resetting its default zones without a heads-up. So, there I was, thinking I’m just cruising, when in reality, zone 1 had shifted to 113 to 145. And not once did it cross my mind that my “24-hour solo race” pace was a bit off as I powered through to Hamilton and beyond. Classic denial, folks.
Fast forward to last night, and I’m trying to piece together my existence, wondering why I’m more dead to the world than a phone with 1% battery. This morning, a lightbulb moment—I checked the zones and realized I’d been hammering it in zone two, even flirting with zone three a few times. All this, on a saddle meant for brief, tear-through-time trials (note to self: get a new saddle).
So, what’s on the agenda now? Rest. Pure, unadulterated rest. And tomorrow? Well, if all goes well, I’ll be ready to tackle the hills for my second week of threshold tests. Here’s to hoping my body forgives me!
Yesterday was one of those days where, despite the best laid plans, things just didn’t pan out the way I’d hoped.
Top of my list was to blitz through my to-do list. Epic FAIL on that front. Instead, I found myself tumbling down the rabbit hole trying to figure out why my Sports Tracks plugin wasn’t showing my efforts correctly. And just like that, half the day vanished.
Next up, hitting the trails at Pattee Canyon for some much-needed MTB fun. Well, that was an ALMOST success. I did manage to make it out there, but only after battling through a slushy mess. So much for winter’s crisp trails. Despite not sticking to my original plan, making it
out to ride was a victory in itself – it ended up being the highlight of my day, proving that sometimes the unplanned adventures are the most rewarding.
And then there was laundry. Ah, the eternal task that waits for no man, nor respects any plans of trail conquests or plugin troubleshooting. It remains, patiently waiting for its turn, a reminder of the mundane yet necessary parts of life.
On this Valentines Day in history:
2009: Ghost Town Idea – Proposing an adventurous bike ride through Montana’s ghost towns, combining history with the thrill of exploration.
2008: To Deer Creek and Back – An impromptu cycling and hiking adventure in Pattee Canyon, embracing the snowy landscape.
2008: Deer Creek Snow Sneak – Swapping traditional Valentine’s Day plans for a snowy bike ride up Deer Creek, seeking untouched trails and epic views.
2004: Mount Ellen Vermont – A solo venture into Mount Ellen’s wintry embrace, detailing a challenging hike amidst a Valentine’s Day whiteout.
2002: My Emotional Profile – A reflection on the quest for love and understanding, highlighting the importance of emotional connections and self-awareness.
Each post captures a moment in time, offering insights into my personal journeys, challenges, and the beauty of adventure. Enjoy delving into these snapshots of life’s rich tapestry.
Boneshakerbike 