I have been AWOL lately but I still exist. I have been sleeping and just mumbling around the apartment since I arrived back from Lambert. I did manage to post some photos and email select individuals but mostly I have been hibernating. Last night I finally ventured out of the house and went skiing up in Pattee Canyon. It is back to work today and that is putting me into a state of misery. It is hard to get back into the grind. How do you do it?
On the East Coast friend Chris takes the lead and I would like to shout out to my friend Paul!
Hello from the City Brew coffee house in Missoula Montana. I just got back from Lambert Montana and have been working on getting the photos from Christmas uploaded and in one place on the net for all to view. (click for album)(click for sideshow)
I am exhausted but was hoping to get caught up on some stuff before the new year. I think once I have posted this I am going home and going back to bed. I feel a sort of depression but I know I am worn out, whew all that cycling, can you believe it 160 miles. If it were warmer I would of surely gone up to 300 miles for sure.
The cold kept me indoors with my aunt Paula and Grandma. I now have another set of fond memories in Lambert. This concludes my third annual trip to Lambert. See you on the snow pretty soon.
Good morning from Lambert Montana one last time this year as I get ready to roll out of town. This morning in about an hour grandma and I hit the road for Roundup where I reclaim my wheels and head home in the Beetle. I have my Dark Tower MP3(s) downloading onto my PDA as I blog and I will be ready to rumble in a few minutes. Now I must wait for grandma to wake up. Maybe Ill go up and start the coffee.
In other news the latest installment of The FredCast is out so I can not wait listen to that on the way home. Also, some post holiday sales have popped up like the one at Camberia Bike (coupon code CBO X7X). Well, I better make coffee and put Marcy in the car. It’s time to roll.
Christmas time isn’t just about the twinkling lights or festive cheer. For me, this season has been all about embracing the great outdoors and pedaling through the scenic routes of Enid, Montana. Today, I wrapped up my holiday cycling adventure with a delightful ride, marking a perfect end to an exhilarating journey.
Riding High in Montana
Montana’s roads have been nothing short of phenomenal for cycling. Picture this: wide-open spaces, the road stretching out endlessly ahead, and me on my bike, pushing through the intervals and conquering the climbs. It’s not my first trip to Enid, but each ride here feels like a fresh adventure.
Lambert’s Welcoming Community
Lambert, though small, has been buzzing with energy. The town is growing, with a new subdivision and, believe it or not, a golf course! The warmth of the locals is heartwarming. Every wave from passing drivers adds a touch of homeliness to my rides. And let’s not forget the oil field and ranch truck drivers – their regular waves have become a staple of my daily cycling routine.
Homeward Bound
Tomorrow, the journey home begins. It’s an early start, with the first task being to drive grandma back to Roundup. The only hiccup? My windshield wiper motor gave out. Fingers crossed for clear roads and a dry windshield!
Looking Ahead
Once home, I’ll have a couple of days to unwind and prep for summer’s mountain bike race training. There’s also the matter of finishing my “top secret” book and refining my training plan. Oh, and I’m on the hunt for a 6-inch foam roller – any leads?
While my friends Rogue and Roar are enjoying the abundant snow in their areas, I, on the other hand, have been hitting the pavement, basking in the sunshine on my shoulder. Last night, my aunt and I ventured into the bustling metropolis of Sidney, Montana, for dinner and some beers. After engaging with the locals, we headed back to Lambert for some “close to home” beers before returning to our base. Of course, all this began with another bike ride.
I embarked on another bright, sunny day, though it was the coldest so far, with temperatures around 20 degrees. Feeling a bit sore from the hills and effort this week, I took it relatively easy. A crosswind along the way made the ride somewhat tedious. I arrived at my cousin’s house in Sidney 1 hour and 15 minutes later, where I changed into ‘human’ clothes. I spent the rest of the night walking among the locals. Sexy bike stayed in the back of the truck.
Hello once again from Lambert Montana where I just got back from a killer ride. Keep in mind most of these rides are short due to the fact that it is cold and in the off season. I am out for fun and these are some great rides as the roads are clear and the sky’s are blue. Today I went up route 328 which is straight North from here. The route is totally straight with some pretty good climbing. In fact the climb goes over the divide (not to be confused with the continental divide). On the other side of the divide is some groves of trees and some cool drainage. This is one of my favorite rides so far.
My Aunt says that a 75 mile loop is possible from taking this route and going right then down to Sidney.
In other news Marcy is having a great time living in this big house and plenty of room outside to run. She has even taken back up chewing on a bone (teeth seem to be getting better). We will be leaving soon and while it will be nice to get back to the grind (not really) it is sad that Marcy will not be able to run and hang out with other dogs as much. She is really having a great time.
Hello from Lambert Montana and good morning. Yesterday was a day of relaxation, travel, and time trial cycling. I just got done posting the photos of the trip to Fort Peck .
Lambert Scene
It is getting harder and harder to be diplomatic about some things and with my consistent cycling and becoming slightly over-trained I have not been having any great shinning moments. Going on a trip would either mend the bitter rivalry or make it worse. I sit here this morning alone hiding from bitter comments and trying to re live a great moment yesterday when I averaged over 20 MPH on my bike for over an hour on a uphill route. (click for Google map)(click for profile)
We jumped into aunt Paula’s diesel truck for the trip to the lake. I threw my bike in the back so that I could pedal my way back just before the day was to end. We gassed up at a gas station on the West side of town. It was there that I found a couple elements to take photos of. Some cool old buildings that give a flavor of the culture out here with the backdrop of a beautiful winter day (although some prefer snow). Soon after a stop at the post office we were off down route 200.
Birdhouse at Fort Peck
We made it to the lake and I snapped off a few more photos. Aunt Paula showed us around and soon the bitter lake winds drove us to head back home but not before a quick tour of the little community. On the way back I remarked that I would have to cycle indoors this evening because it was 3 PM and too late to be dropped off at 20 miles from Lambert (a quickie ride). My aunt suggested that they drop me off and that they would go to Brockway Bar in Brockway and wait for me. I thought it was a great idea. They said it was 21 miles away and I thought it a great challenge to ride 21 miles before the sun set (1 hr). The race was on.
The ride started uphill but the last two before the intersection of route 200 were downhill slightly. I made the corner and started the long hard pull to Brockway. First I had to overtake this long hill. I climbed hard and strong thinking that when I rested it would be rolling or flat the rest of the way. It was not meant to be.
Lambert Scene
I saw hill after hill and soon the hills were getting harder and harder. Most of the hills were 4 miles long with a slight level spot on top before climbing again. It was all gradual in comparison with a pass ride but non the less it was all climbing. I rode above my limits and pounded out the miles. one hill, then another, then another.
Finally when it seemed I would never fin Brockway I saw the little village nestled ion a valley. It would be all down hill (4 miles) to where my aunt and grandma were waiting. I arrived victorious in spirit. The sun beat me down but I averaged close to 20 MPH on a mostly uphill route. I recovered with a bag of chips and a Moose Drool beer.
The drive home was good as I was told about how everyone in the bar was betting it would take me three hours. It must of been a shock to se me walk in after being dropped off 24 miles away in an hour and fifteen minutes. My total climbing for the day was 1,787 (11.3 miles of hill climb).
Hello from Lambert Montana where I am thinking of getting back out on the road for another road bike ride. The sun is up and since I have a bike sitting right here in front of me. That brings me to what I am thankful for …. the fact that I brought my bike.
Yesterday I went riding up to Enid Montana where there is this nice abandon schoolhouse. It was a 1 hour recovery spin after the night before and the big effort coming back from Sidney. Ok, back to why I am thankful … I brought a vehicle to escape insanity.
How can someone get so bitter that they mettle in other peoples business and say things to hurt everyone around them. Do you know someone who is a awful mean person. I think my lucky stars I ride a bike to escape such insanity.
“Don’t you ever wash your clothes? I hate talking to your ……? Your ….. needs bla ba bla. You have a bad outlook on life. You are lazy. ” My life is too short for this type of crap!
Of course I am speaking vaguely and am not specifically mentioning any name. But you know what I am talking about, everyone has a member of their Ka-tet like this. Right?
Merry Christmas to me, right? Well, maybe not in the traditional sense, but hey, I’m here, legs pumping, lungs burning, and grinning like a fool – what more could a cycling Santa ask for?
Touched down yesterday and immediately felt the need to christen the local roads. A quick 45-minute thrash and a steady, sneaky climb that ate at my legs worse than any screaming hill ever could. Flat is deceiving, I tell ya.
Ride number two arrived like a sugar plum on Christmas Eve – 24 miles downhill to Sidney, wind at my back like a personal draft team. Easy 21 mph pace, feeling like a supersonic reindeer. The return trip, though? That was more like Krampus in cleats. Same distance, all uphill, wind like a disapproving grandma giving me the stink-eye. It took a whopping 1.5 hours, every pedal stroke a mini-carol of pain.
Just when I thought the Grinch had stolen my holiday cheer, a pickup truck decided to play tailgator. Not cool, Scrooges on wheels! But hey, maybe I should thank them. With adrenaline surging, I powered up the last hill, took the corner like a runaway elf, and left the truck sputtering in my dust. Heart rate hit 172, a Christmas miracle of personal power. Guess you could say I showed them who had the real holiday spirit (and the stronger quads). So yeah, not your typical Christmas Day, but definitely one I won’t forget. Now, where’s the nearest eggnog and cookies? This Santa needs some serious refuelling!
P.S. Don’t tell Grandma, but I might have borrowed a line or two from her carols during that uphill battle. Silent night? More like silent screaming. Just sayin’.
Hello from Lambert Montana, we finally arrived. Grandma and I got up and had to jump her new vehicle (Blazer).
Grandma and I
While I was packing the car I noticed my old sled that I used when I was a child. It is the sled where I learned to NOT put your tongue on a frozen surface. Actually I learned this while at top speed and had to find a way to disengage my tongue before I hit the bottom of the hill and a possible collision with a tree or a car. I got it unstuck in the nick of time.
35 plus years later the battery in grandma’s blazer was dead and we put it on charge. Soon we had it started and was off to Roundup to have breakfast with Uncle Bob and Aunt Cindy.
Cindy and Bob
We had breakfast at the Pioneer cafe. This is the place I grew up. Grandma owned this cafe and I have many memories of this venue.
Learning to say “truck driver” and not “fuck driver”
Learning how to cook
Learning how french fries were made
My first introduction to what monosodium gluminate was used for (preserving potatoes for fires later)
How to make flap jacks
How to correctly fry burgers
How to peal potatoes fast
General child sweatshop labor
How to use the cellar systems to walk around all the stores on the block in the middle of the night.
How to use the roof to access all the office spaces on the block.
Finding treasures like the first mobile projector.
and other fond memories.
My Old Sled
Ah yes! So then we had finished breakfast and we traveled to Lambert via the high line (route 200). We made good time stopping in Circle for cookies, coffee, and snacks. The roads were decent and arriving in Lambert I was greeted with sunshine and clear roads. I would get to do some road cycling.
I will blog more later, enjoy the holidays everyone.
Early Risers and Road Trips: My Day in Roundup, Montana
Hello from Roundup, Montana! Today’s adventure kicked off before the sun even had a chance to peek over the horizon. At the crack of dawn, 6 a.m. to be exact, my day began. There’s something about waking up while the world is still quiet that adds an extra layer of excitement to any journey.
First stop? City Brew. Any road trip enthusiast knows that a good day starts with a great cup of coffee. City Brew was more than just a coffee stop; it was where I fueled up my attention engine, readying myself for the long drive ahead.
The destination? Billings, Montana. The drive, a scenic stretch lasting about 5 hours, gave me plenty of time to soak in the beauty of Montana’s landscapes. Road trips like these are less about the destination and more about the experience – the open road, the changing scenery, and the uninterrupted time for reflection.
Upon reaching Billings, I had the joy of reuniting with family. Dinner with Uncle Bill and Aunt Cheryl wasn’t just a meal; it was a heartwarming catch-up session, filled with laughter and stories. There’s something special about family gatherings that makes any place feel like home.
The final leg of my journey took me to Grandma’s house in the Bull Mountains. Contrary to their name, they’re more like hills, but that doesn’t take away from their charm. Arriving at Grandma’s felt like stepping into a familiar, comforting world – a perfect end to a day well spent.
From the early start at City Brew to the warm family dinner in Billings, and finally, the tranquility of Grandma’s house in the hills, this trip to Roundup was a reminder of the simple joys life offers.
Hey there, fellow travelers and cycling enthusiasts! I’m currently buzzing with excitement (and a little bit of caffeine) as I embark on a road trip to Billings, armed with my favorite coffee and scones from City Brew. The car’s packed, the playlists are ready, and my spirit is high.
Yesterday, I immersed myself in the serene beauty of Pattee Canyon. Skiing there for over two hours at a heart-pumping average rate of 142 bpm was exhilarating! I completed five laps around my favorite 3.15-mile loop (check out the map here for a scenic detour). There’s this one hill that really gets my heart racing, maxing out at 163 bpm. It’s like a dance with nature, where every stride and glide felt like a moderate race training session.
Today, however, my legs are telling a different story. They’re a bit on the weaker side, perhaps whispering (or rather, shouting) for some rest. But hey, it’s a transition period, and this past week has been phenomenal training-wise. I’ve practically checked off every box in my training regimen!
So, here I am, ready to hit the road again. Billings, here I come, with my trusty Sansa player loaded with all my beloved cycling podcasts like Fredcast and The Spokesman. A little sneak peek at the webcams at the passes has only fueled my excitement more.
Stay tuned for more updates from the road, and let’s see what adventures await!
Hello! Hunkered down in my basement apartment in Missoula Montana I am waiting for the big storm (check weather). All the news stations are reporting a big storm that is supposed to dump two feet of snow is on the way. This is not good news because I leave for East Montana this Saturday (in two days). My last two years have been hell going to Lambert but memorable. last year I had to get a new set of tires for my car and this year I finished the project by getting another pair to complete the replacement of my tires. Now to just get a new timing belt and new lenses, the car will be back up to snuff.
Last night I did not take my Yak Trax on my run up sentinel and I paid the price. I slipped and slid around making the decent back to the car very dangerous. My new running stance (top secret) helped keep my bones from feeling sore. I ran for 59:37 with the surprising good news that Marcy was able to keep up (good news). Talking about top secret, I did my top secret CORE last night for a half an hour combined with a half hour on the indoor trainer. I can really feel my power workout last night. I think a rest day is in order. Tonight if it does snow I will go skiing.
I put in for a sponsorship at Van Dessel Sports (click here to see bike) and requested equipment support. I soon received a reply from Edwin Bull that at this time of year their sponsorship budget is very tight but he would be happy to offer me their highest pro-deal sponsorship level which is 37% off of listed price. My thoughts on that are if I had $3000.00 to plop down on a bike would I be asking for support. I will move on and ask others. My dream bike, if I were to win the lottery, is the Gary Fisher SuperFly (take a look).
Take care and remember … pain is only weakness leaving the body!
There is more snow on the way and last night my dog Marcy and I hiked up at the Pattee Canyon Ski Trails to asses the conditions. Things are thin up there but I believe with the latest couple inches and with more on the way it will be good to go. I would of went last night but I may hit the trails tonight after some much needed strength training.
That brings me to my latest endeavor. Without giving up too much of my top secret training I will say that it is my assessment that I will be 60% faster next year. I am evolving myself in a new philosophy and training scheme. Stay tuned!
Here I am again at the City Brew coffee house, my usual haunt. This morning’s scene? A bit of a shake-up. My favorite spot’s taken by a bunch that could easily win a “least welcoming” award. You know them, those with a glare sharp enough to slice through your digital bubble. It’s like they’re on a mission to banish anyone who dares to embrace the online world.
But let’s not dwell on the gloomy. Instead, let’s chat about the brighter side of things. Picture this: the sun’s out, and the mountains are like a masterpiece painted in fresh, white snow. It’s one of those days that just screams ‘picture-perfect’.
<< Now seated at a new table >>
Managed to snag a table. Now, comfortably seated, I can dive into the day’s musings. If the roads were clear, believe me, I’d be out there, cycling through this winter wonderland. But first, mundane tasks call – laundry, of course. Then, maybe a trip to Lolo Pass for some ski adventures.
Speaking of skiing, yesterday was a blast. I went skate skiing with my friend Alden at Lolo Pass. Check this out – Alden handed me these amazing skate skis. They’re a game-changer. I can glide effortlessly, stand taller, feel the rhythm of the snow. They’ve lit a spark in me, a newfound passion for skate skiing. And with so much winter still ahead, what a time to fall in love with it!
Ah, the aroma of coffee with a hint of cocoa, the buttery goodness of scones, and a heart full of plans! This isn’t just any weekend; it’s the prelude to an escapade filled with skate skiing, cycling, and a bit of car tinkering.
Imagine this: you’re gazing out of the window, coffee in hand, as the world wakes up. The promise of a 30-degree day beckons you outdoors. But first, skate skiing with Alden. You’ve warned him – it’s a short ski today. After all, there’s a mountain of tasks waiting.
And cycling? Oh yes, that’s on the cards too. You’re eyeing those roads, hoping they clear up. Cycling isn’t just a sport for you; it’s a breath of fresh air, a dash of adrenaline.
But wait, there’s more! Prepping for a road trip to Lambert next weekend. Tires checked? Absolutely. That’s priority number one. And your trainer? It’s decided to join the winter orchestra with its squealing symphony. But no worries, you’ll fix it. You need it for those indoor cycling sessions.
Tick-tock, the clock’s hands move, and Alden’s arrival is imminent. You’re a wizard today, magically fitting bindings onto your skis. And amidst this hustle, you’re house sitting and tackling chores. Whoever said weekends are for resting didn’t have your energy!
Through all this, it’s the warmth of friendship that keeps the chill at bay. Shoutouts to RBrown, Roar, Pablo, and Rouge – your crew, your winter cheerleaders. And Roar, we’re all ears about your snow adventures!
So, dear reader, embrace the chaos, relish the rush, and remember – in the whirlwind of life, it’s the moments of connection and thrill that make the best memories.
Winter Weekend Resources
The Ultimate Guide to Skate Skiing: New to skate skiing or looking to improve? This comprehensive guide covers techniques, gear, and tips to enhance your experience.
Woke up this morning feeling like I’d sprinted a marathon. Yep, last night’s run was nothing short of epic. Picture this: me, charging through Crazy Canyon like a superhero. The aftermath? A body that’s screaming, “What on earth were you thinking?”
But hey, I’ve got a secret weapon against muscle soreness – my killer Recoverite smoothie. Last night, post-run, I whipped up this magic potion. Here’s what goes in it:
A packet of Recoverite (because, muscles)
1/3 cup of yogurt (smooth and creamy, just the way I like it)
1/3 cup of blueberries (for that sweet, fruity kick)
Tomorrow’s plan? Hitting the slopes for some skiing action before heading off to Aunt Paula’s. I’m all about that balance – run, recover, ski, and repeat.
Oh, and in the midst of all this, I just realized I’m late for work! More updates coming soon. Until then, keep blending and stay speedy!
What a day, folks! You know those mornings when you’re racing against the clock, and breakfast becomes a forgotten luxury? That was me today. Scrambling out of bed after 7, I realized the only way to not be late for work was to dash out the door. No time for a proper breakfast, so I grabbed a Recoverite packet. Health in a hurry, right?
But here’s the twist. Arriving at work, I found a tray of sugar cookies near the microwave. Now, let’s be honest, my excitement wasn’t exactly for health reasons. It was that deep-seated, primeval sugar craving. And boy, did I give in. So much for the Recoverite. Hello, cookies!
The day only spiraled from there. It turned into an unofficial office bake-off. Platters of goodies started pouring in. It felt like everyone had hit the festive party mode a bit early. Then came the fruit cake. But no, I was on a mission – a mission that somehow still included cookies.
Next, three kinds of fudge appeared. And yes, I partook. I mean, who wouldn’t? It was like the universe declared an unofficial ‘no-real-food’ day. And now, the thought of a healthy lunch filled me with a weird mix of sugar-infused guilt and calorie-counting dread.
So here I am, reaching out for help while simultaneously planning to meet everyone at Sean Kelly’s tonight. Oh, the irony! Can one escape this sugary vortex? Stay tuned!
Boneshakerbike 
