Waking up with a sprained wrist is no joke, especially when it throws a wrench in your adventurous plans for Sheep Mountain. It’s like your body decided to party a bit too hard without your permission. And speaking of parties, how about that hike last night? If you’re anything like me, that’s the kind of New Year’s celebration that leaves you feeling more like a mountain goat than a party animal.

But let’s switch gears and talk about Monte, the University of Montana’s mascot. This furry, wise-cracking, break-dancing bear is about to snag the Capital One Mascot of the Year award for the second time! That’s right, Monte isn’t just a regular bear; he’s a cool bear. Winning the nation’s top collegiate mascot title in 2002 and now aiming for a repeat performance, Monte is proving that mascots are more than just sideline entertainment. They’re furry symbols of school spirit and tenacity.

Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate this: A dancing bear mascot is beating the competition not once, but twice. That’s like finding out your goofy uncle is actually a world salsa dancing champion. It’s unexpected, a little bizarre, but totally awesome. Monte is essentially showing the world that even in the realm of mascots, under-bears can come out on top.

As you nurse that sprained wrist and contemplate your next adventure, remember Monte’s unstoppable spirit. Maybe take a leaf out of his book: a bit of humor, a dance move or two, and an attitude that says, “I’m here to win.” Who knows, maybe next year you’ll be hiking Sheep Mountain with a mascot of your own. Just make sure it dances!

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Sheep Mountain Adventure Guide: Explore Sheep Mountain – Find the best trails and prepare for your next hike.
2. Mascot Mania: The World of Collegiate Mascots – Dive into the world of college mascots and their history.
3. Sprained Wrist Care: Healthline – Wrist Sprain – Tips on how to care for a sprained wrist.
4. Monte’s Mascot Tips: University of Montana Athletics – Learn more about Monte and his mascot antics.
5. Stretching and Recovery: Yoga for Hikers – Yoga poses perfect for post-hike recovery.

Fireworks on the Frosty Summit: A New Year’s Adventure on Mt. Sentinel

New Year’s Eve, 2004 – The clock struck 10 PM, and there I was, cozied up in my warm, snug home. But as fate would have it, my phone buzzed with a daring proposal from my friend Cory. “Let’s hike Mt. Sentinel and welcome 2005 from the summit!” he suggested. The idea was wild, almost absurd, but the thrill of adventure beckoned, and I found myself saying, “Let’s do it!”

Preparations were a flurry of activity. We gathered our gear, bundled up in our warmest clothes, and set out into the crisp, starlit night. The temperature was a frigid 15 degrees, and the winds, oh, they howled at 30 to 40 mph, making it feel like we were embarking on an expedition to Everest!

As we began our ascent, the world around us was eerily silent, save for the roaring wind and the crunch of snow under our boots. With each step, the city lights dwindled, giving way to a vast, starry sky. Our breaths formed icy clouds in the air, and the cold bit at our cheeks, but the excitement of the adventure kept our spirits high.

Reaching the summit was nothing short of magical. There we were, standing at the top of the world (or so it felt), with the winds whipping around us, making the cold almost unbearable. But the view! The view was spectacular. Below us, the city was a sea of twinkling lights, a stark contrast to the dark, vast wilderness around us.

Then, as the clock neared midnight, the city erupted in a symphony of lights and colors. Fireworks! From our lofty perch on Sentinel Gulch, we watched in awe as the fireworks painted the night sky in vibrant hues of red, green, and gold. It was a surreal moment, one that made us feel both insignificant and immensely alive.

The descent was a journey of its own, filled with laughter, occasional slips in the snow, and a sense of accomplishment that comes only from doing something spontaneous and a little crazy.

As I sit here, typing my first blog post of 2005, I can’t help but feel grateful for friends like Cory who push me out of my comfort zone, for the beauty of nature that never ceases to amaze, and for the adventures that await in the year ahead.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Mt. Sentinel Trail Guide – Plan your own adventure with this detailed guide.
2. Cold Weather Hiking Tips – Stay safe and warm on your winter hikes.
3. Firework Photography Tips – Capture the beauty of fireworks on your next hike.
4. Adventure Blogs – Get inspired by stories from fellow adventurers.
5. Local Weather Forecast – Always be prepared by checking the weather before your hike.

Frosty Hikes and Tech Hiccups: A Day in the Life

Morning Frost and Family Woes

The day kicked off with a bit of family drama. Mom’s computer decided it had enough and just quit – seems like a fan issue. It’s tough feeling helpless when tech troubles strike, especially when it’s your mom’s. To top it off, my sister couldn’t join our planned meeting; her kids were under the weather. It’s true what they say: when it rains, it pours!

A Hike Like No Other

But hey, life always has a silver lining. Tonight’s hike was nothing short of magical. The frosty air and bright moonlight meant no headlamp was needed. I experienced the atmospheric layers in full force – hot, then cold, then just right. And the frost-coated plants at 5,000 feet? Simply stunning.

Work and More Work

Work was its usual mix of highs and lows. I spent some time on LocoJoe.net, and wrapped up at MARS. A bit of a hiccup with some JavaScript on an xsl page had me frustrated, but nothing a good hike couldn’t fix!

Unexpected Outages and Snowy Delights

Mid-morning brought an unexpected outage, but I’m on it – looking for a reliable hosting option in Missoula to avoid future disruptions. By noon, the mood had lifted thanks to a surprise snowfall and the delicious aroma of chicken stew slow-cooking at work. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a day better.

Evening Plans: Snow and Fun

Ending the day at work without much progress isn’t ideal, but the prospect of playing in the snow at Sentinel Gulch has me excited. There’s something about sliding down a snowy hill that makes all the day’s troubles seem far away.

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Resources to Enhance Your Day

1. Tech Support for Beginners: A helpful guide for dealing with common computer issues like a malfunctioning fan.
2. Trail Hiking Tips: Advice on hiking in different weather conditions, including frosty nights.
3. The JavaScript Guide: For those tricky moments when your code just won’t cooperate.
4. Missoula Hosting Solutions: Find reliable local hosting options to avoid frustrating outages.
5. Snowshoeing Adventures: Explore the best trails for a snowy escapade.

Remember, no matter how chaotic your day gets, there’s always a way to find joy and a warm bowl of stew waiting somewhere!

Monday Night Musings and a Mountain Hike

Waking up on the floor is not your typical morning, but hey, when Monday Night Football is on, all bets are off. Picture this: a chilly December 28, 2004 morning, with echoes of game cheers still bouncing around. I’m there, sprawled out, having succumbed to sleep’s embrace right in the middle of the excitement.

To fend off the night’s restlessness, I reach for my trusty player, loading up the latest from Stephen King’s “The Dark Tower” series. Audio books are my nightly escape; they keep my mind from wandering back to the intricate web of projects waiting for me at work. Speaking of which, I adore my job! It’s a blend of taxing challenges and exhilarating breakthroughs, especially when I’m crafting tax relief software.

But yesterday was different. Dipping my toes into something new, I updated a couple of pages for MARS STOUT Inc.’s website – a refreshing change from my usual routine. I tweaked the main page and added some vital virus info. It’s always invigorating to switch gears and tackle public web content.

The highlight of my day? A dusk hike with Marcy in the serene Rattlesnake Wilderness Area. Sure, bringing my dog along during winter isn’t exactly by the book, but we avoided the main trails and embarked on an adventurous ascent straight up the mountain from the parking lot. The view, the crisp air, the thrill – it was all worth it. I’m excited to share this hike with you, along with some long-overdue pictures.

For now, though, it’s time to surrender to sleep’s call once more. Stay tuned for more updates, and good night to the world from my little corner of it.

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Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Stephen King’s “The Dark Tower” Series: Dive into the mystical world King has woven.
2. Hiking Tips for Beginners: Ready to start your own hiking adventures? Here’s how to begin.
3. NFL Monday Night Football Highlights: Relive the excitement of last night’s game.
4. Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails: Find trails where your furry friend is welcome.
5. MARS STOUT Inc.: Check out the company making waves in software development.

After an invigorating hike with Marcy and a buzz of activity at work, you’re now unwinding in the best way possible – pizza, friends, and the soothing comfort of a hot tub. It’s these simple joys that make every moment special, isn’t it? Just like the exhilaration of a hike transforms into the relaxation of a hot tub, life always has its ways of balancing the energetic with the tranquil.

Your plan for snowshoeing or skiing tomorrow sounds fantastic! It’s a wonderful way to embrace the winter season and get some fresh air and exercise. Whether gliding through snowy trails or making fresh tracks in untouched snow, each option offers its own unique thrill and beauty.

Here’s a thought – why not make this weekend a tribute to winter’s splendor? Imagine starting your day with the crisp sound of snow crunching under your snowshoes, surrounded by a serene, winter wonderland. Or feel the rush of skiing down slopes, the cool wind against your face, bringing an exhilarating sense of freedom.

And after a day in the snow, what could be better than returning to the warmth of good company, delicious food, and maybe another dip in the hot tub? It’s the perfect way to relax your muscles and share stories of your day’s adventure.

So, grab your gear, invite some friends, and make the most of this winter weekend. Whether it’s the peacefulness of snowshoeing or the thrill of skiing, embrace the joy and beauty of the season. And remember, at the end of the day, it’s these moments of adventure and relaxation that weave the tapestry of unforgettable memories.

Happy snow adventures!

Choosing Passion Over Paychecks: My Adventure Cycling Dilemma

It’s funny how life throws curveballs at you. Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, along comes a twist. Recently, I found myself at a crossroads with a job opportunity at Adventure Cycling. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, not so fast!

Adventure Cycling is an incredible place, a real gem in Missoula. The vibe, the people – top-notch. But here’s the catch: they wanted a jack-of-all-trades – graphic artist, web master, and publisher rolled into one. Intense, right?

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m all for challenges and learning new things. But this was a bit much, even for me. Plus, I heard through the grapevine that the organization is taking a more corporate turn. Not really my cup of tea.

So, here’s where it gets interesting. I’ve got a gig at MARS Stout. Pay? Not close to what Adventure Cycling was offering. But the atmosphere? Priceless. It’s chill, flexible, and they’re cool with me running wild with my ideas. It’s like finding that rare spot where you feel you belong.

Here’s the kicker: I’m not in it for the money. Never have been. For me, it’s about those little moments. Like cycling through the countryside, stopping for a taco, or kicking back with a ‘hepphanhouswer thing y beer’ (whatever that is, sounds intriguing!).

And let’s talk about Christmas plans. Wide open. Maybe Julie will call for a wild adventure. Snowshoeing at Squaw Peak or skiing at the Pass? Count me in! Anybody else got plans? Perhaps we can all chill with that peculiarly named beer.

In the end, I chose to stick with MARS Stout. Sure, I could’ve gone for the bigger paycheck. But sometimes, it’s not about the money. It’s about being true to what you love. For me, that’s freedom, adventure, and the joy of living each day on my own terms.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Adventure Cycling Association – Discover routes and plan your cycling adventure.
2. Taco Recipes for Cyclists – Fuel up with these easy-to-make taco recipes.
3. Beginner’s Guide to Snowshoeing – Ready to hit the snow? Start here.
4. Skiing Tips for Beginners – Hit the slopes with confidence.
5. Craft Beer Explorers – Dive into the world of craft beers and find your next favorite.

Stay adventurous, my friends!

The Rollercoaster of a Regular Day

There’s a unique charm in the mundane, the everyday scramble that somehow weaves itself into an adventure. Take today, for instance. It’s one of those days where I should’ve been out and about by 8 AM, but here I am, still lingering. But hey, it’s not just any other day. I’m picking up my first paycheck! Sure, it’s not a fortune, and won’t cover the rent, but it’s a start, right?

Lunch plans are on with my buddy Paul. We’ve got to dissect my recent brush with what I initially thought was a great job opportunity. Turned out to be a bullet dodged! These close calls, they sure make for some spicy lunchtime storytelling.

Work at MARS Stout is always a buzz, and today, it gets even better. I’m diving into a new project – setting up a website for a coffee product. You can almost smell the fresh brew, can’t you?

But the real highlight, the cherry on top of this rather eventful day, is my rendezvous with Chuck. We’re both huge fans of the Dark Tower series, and I’m finally getting my hands on the latest, and sadly, the last installment. “Oh Discordia!” indeed. What am I going to do when this saga ends? It’s like saying goodbye to an old friend.

Life’s like that, isn’t it? A collection of small moments, some mundane, some thrilling, all strung together in the tapestry of our daily lives. So, here’s to the regular days that turn out to be anything but regular.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. MARS Stout’s Official Website: Dive into the world of MARS Stout and explore their latest offerings. Visit MARS Stout
2. Beginner’s Guide to Web Design: Starting a new website? This guide’s got you covered. Learn Web Design
3. Dark Tower Fan Forum: Join the community of Dark Tower enthusiasts. Share theories, discuss characters, and more. Join the Forum
4. Lunchtime Conversations: A blog on how to turn everyday chats into meaningful discussions. Read More
5. Budgeting Basics: A paycheck may be small, but it’s a start. Learn how to make the most of it. Budgeting Tips

Today I went skiing at Chief Joseph Pass. Alden picked me up at 8 AM and drove as far as Florence. It was nice to get out of town for once. Alden needed to correct papers so I drove the rest of the way to the pass on the Idaho border.

We arrived at the parking area for the Chief Joseph Pass X-Country Ski Area and I was impressed with how much snow there was. The trails although not groomed for skating were great. My classical skills are really lacking compounded by the fact that my equipment is a little behind scheduled maintenance.

Alden raced the 20k and I skied around taking pictures. After the race, there was soup, breads, and tons of great cookies. The lodge is very nice and I was taking notes on the structure. It is exactly how I want to build my house.

After some more skiing, we returned home and Alden got 5 out of 8 papers corrected for this Operating Systems Class.

After being invited to supper at his place, I accepted. It was very nice as we had stew and salad. I enjoyed a Bayrn Double Bock beer.