Hey there, folks! Greetings from the winter wonderland of Missoula, Montana. Last night, I found myself whizzing through Pattee Canyon, leaving fresh trails in the snow, and today… well, let’s just say my car decided it needed a little TLC. Big news is on the horizon, and soon my buddy Paul will be joining in on the fun.

This fine morning was all about playing mechanic. With my car’s back hatch threatening to turn into a guillotine, and the horror of potentially broken ski poles and skis looming, I knew it was time to act. Say goodbye to the old trunk strut and hello to some snazzy homemade lens covers for my car’s exterior lights.

Now, let me tell you about last night’s skiing escapade. I set a personal record on the Billoppet course, a 3.15-mile loop featuring a hearty 250 feet of climbing. I tackled the three-lap version in 1 hour and 17 minutes, a significant improvement from my January 1st record of 1:28. I owe this feat to better form, thanks to the old skate skis Alden passed on to me. And yes, I bravely ventured into the realm of V Skating (that’s skiing downhill at breakneck speeds without poles for the uninitiated) despite not being the most graceful on skis.

Stay tuned for more tales from the snowy trails and the occasional car repair saga!

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Missoula Winter Sports Guide: Missoula Winter Sports
2. DIY Car Maintenance Tips: Car Maintenance for Adventurers
3. Cross-Country Skiing Techniques: Learn V Skating and More
4. Fitness Tracking for Skiers: Skiing Fitness Trackers
5. Visit Pattee Canyon: Pattee Canyon Recreation Guide

Hey there, everyone! Last night was one of those moments when motivation and winter gloom battled it out. I managed to squeeze in a 10-mile spin on the trainer, but let’s just say it was more about keeping the blues at bay than setting any records.

There’s something about this endless darkness and cold that’s been tougher to handle this year. But, as they say, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. And that’s exactly what I plan to do.

Today’s agenda looks a bit brighter. I’m waxing up the skis and tossing them in the car for a post-work escape to Pattee Canyon. There’s something about skate skiing that just lifts the spirits, you know? Despite the darkness, gliding through those trails always brings a sense of peace.

On a more personal note, my mom’s health has been weighing on my mind. She’s down with pneumonia, and hearing her cough over the phone last night was tough. I might need to drive down soon and get her to a proper doctor. Family always comes first, after all.

And in a classic ‘me’ move, I’ve lost a DVD from Blockbuster. Ever wonder how much they charge for a lost movie? Well, I guess I’m about to find out. Wish me luck as I retrace my steps from here to Lambert!

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Indoor Cycling Tips for Winter
2. Skate Skiing for Beginners
3. Coping with Family Health Concerns
4. Lost DVD? What To Do Next
5. Discovering Pattee Canyon

Ever had to push through a slump to keep up with your training? Or maybe had to deal with a lost rental item? Share your stories below – we’ve all been there!

Hey there, blog fam! Quick shout-out to the ever-amazing Lynn and the one-and-only ROAR – hope you’re staying cozy in this weather rollercoaster. Winter in Missoula is playing its usual games – a dash of warmth, a sprinkle of snow, and a whole lot of wishing for spring.

So, here’s a little tale from my side. Picture this – it’s a chilly January morning, and I’m all set to brave another day at work. Coat buttoned up, coffee in hand, and then bam! I step into a mini-lake… right in my own kitchen. Talk about a splash of reality!

Rewind to the holidays, and remember those shiny new faucets I was so excited about? Well, turns out the installation was more of an ‘install-uh-oh’. The handyman must’ve had a secret vendetta against drain pipes because he left mine in shambles. Fast forward to this morning, and I’m knee-deep in DIY plumbing. Who knew I’d be piecing pipes together instead of piecing my day at work?

After spending my morning playing ‘The Plumber’s Apprentice’, I’m planning a lunchtime home trip to test my newfound skills. Fingers crossed that my kitchen doesn’t transform into a swimming pool!

Oh, and yesterday? It was just your regular chores day – nothing thrilling unless you count sorting socks as an adventure (I don’t). But hey, sometimes life is about finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, right?

Stay tuned for more of my not-so-ordinary days and remember, even a leaky pipe can lead to a great story!

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Missoula’s Best Plumbing Tips – For those unexpected DIY mornings.
2. Embracing the Unexpected – A blog on finding joy in life’s surprises.
3. Handyman Hacks – Quick fixes for your home woes.
4. Weather Wonders – Stay ahead of Missoula’s whimsical weather.
5. The Sock Sorting Chronicles – Because even chores can be fun!

Greetings from the hushed winter beauty of Missoula, Montana! Just yesterday, I found myself amidst the frosty pines and crisp air of the 2008 Ozone Pursuit. With gear almost identical to last year’s, I had one new ally—skate skis, a generous gift from a friend. These new skis have transformed the trails from a grueling test to an exhilarating escape; they glide where my old ones would trudge.

I noticed a change in the course this time—shorter, I’m sure of it. Last year’s challenge was a 10K classic and a 10K skate, but this year they tweaked it to 7K classic and 10K skate. No matter the distance, I’m elated to report I’ve outdone myself. Let’s talk numbers:

Last year, my 10K skate time was a modest 50:47. This year? An astonishing 45:19 (unofficial, but who’s quibbling?). That’s a full five minutes off, a whole minute for every 2K. How’s that for sweet? My total time saw a drastic drop too—from last year’s 1:47:41 to this year’s 1:29:26. We’re talking an 18-minute improvement!

Despite my recent ski race fervor, I’m grounded enough to know the US ski team isn’t on the horizon. The real pros can blitz through the course in under an hour. But next week, who knows? Maybe I’ll conquer the mountains with some telemark skiing.

For those inspired to hit the trails, whether it’s your first time or you’re seeking to best your personal record, check out Cross-Country Skiing Basics. And if you’re looking to gear up, find your perfect pair of skis at Nordic Skier Sports. Finally, to immerse yourself in the cross-country ski community or even to check out race times, visit Seeley Lake Nordic. Strap on those skis, and let the cold winds propel you to your next personal best!

Today was a day of dodging and weaving through the whims of Mother Nature. The plan was simple: a bike ride to bask in the unusually warm January weather. Sipping my morning coffee at City Brew, I was ready for a leisurely pedal. But as often happens in the mountains, the weather had other plans.

Rain and snow swept in, derailing my cycling plans. Not one to be easily deterred, I pivoted to hiking. University Mountain was the target. With determination, I set off, only to be met with an icy greeting. A quarter way up, a fierce blend of wind and snow sent me retreating.

The day wasn’t done with me yet. I found myself running along the Deer Creek Sneak Road, a change of pace but no less exhilarating. As I neared my car, breathless and invigorated, I noticed something. The Nordic trails, now dressed in a fresh blanket of snow, looked inviting. The ski conditions were perfect, just as I was wrapping up my day. Darn, a missed opportunity!

But that’s the beauty of being outdoors, isn’t it? Plans may shift, the weather may have its mood swings, but each turn brings a new adventure, a new story to tell. As I drove home, I couldn’t help but smile. Today, Mother Nature reminded me to expect the unexpected and find joy in every twist and turn.

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Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Weather Forecasting for Outdoor Adventures – Stay ahead of the weather on your next outing.
2. Hiking Safety Tips – Essential advice for safe and enjoyable hiking.
3. Nordic Skiing Basics – Get started with Nordic skiing.
4. Effective Running Techniques – Improve your running form and efficiency.
5. Bike Maintenance Tips – Keep your bike in top condition for your next ride.

Ah, my apologies for that oversight! Let’s fix that and add in those helpful links to the Missoula Diaries blog post.

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Missoula Diaries: Ski Plans, Chores, and Camera Dreams

Happy Friday, folks! Greetings from my cozy, if somewhat dungeon-like, apartment in Missoula, Montana. As the weekend rolls in, I’m gearing up for a whirlwind of activities that promise to keep me on my toes – or skis, to be more precise!

This weekend, I’m off to Seeley Lake for a ski race. The thrill of speeding down those frosty slopes is enough to make me forget the chaos of the week. But before I hit the snowy trails, there’s the small matter of catching up with life. I’ve been back from Lambert for a while now, but my luggage? Yeah, it’s still packed. Unpacking seems to be a task reserved for the future me!

Then there’s the eternal battle with procrastination. Every evening, I walk in from work with grand plans to tackle my chores. But somehow, I end up doing everything but that. Last night, however, wasn’t a total bust. I managed to squeeze in some of my Core Performance exercises. Small victories, right?

Amidst all this, there’s something else on my mind – a new pocket digital camera. Lugging around my 5-pound Canon EOS 10D is starting to feel like a workout in itself. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a fantastic camera, but there’s something appealing about the convenience and lightness of a pocket-sized one, especially when I’m on the go.

So, while I’m navigating between ski slopes and life’s little chores, I’m also on the hunt for the perfect camera to capture those spontaneous moments without the weight of my trusty, yet bulky, Canon.

Resources to Enhance Your Day

1. Ski Racing Tips: Get ready to hit the slopes with these expert ski racing techniques.
2. Efficient Unpacking Strategies: Just got back from a trip? Here’s how to tackle unpacking without the dread.
3. Procrastination Busters: Find effective ways to get motivated and stay productive after a long day at work.
4. Core Performance Workouts: Explore these exercises to keep you fit and active, even on busy days.
5. Compact Digital Camera Reviews: On the hunt for a lightweight camera? Check out these compact digital camera reviews to find your perfect match.

From the bustling streets of Missoula to the serene trails of Seeley Lake, and the quest for the perfect camera, it’s all in a weekend’s work. Stay tuned for more tales from the dungeon apartment!

It’s a classic showdown in Montana, where mountain bikers and wilderness advocates find themselves at a crossroads. Imagine a world where the rugged trails of the Beaverhead-Deer Lodge and Gallatin National Forests become off-limits to the tire treads of mountain bikes. That’s the scene unfolding in Montana, where the creation of new Wilderness Study Areas threatens to restrict access to these beloved paths.

Enter the Montana Mountain Bike Alliance (MMBA), a group that’s riding to the rescue. Founded in November 2007, this alliance is not just about defending trails; it’s about representing a community. As Corey Biggers, one of the founders, puts it, there’s been a hefty push to sideline cyclists from numerous trails. But the MMBA isn’t standing down.

What’s at stake here? It’s more than just a few trails. It’s about the freedom to explore, the thrill of the ride, and the right to share the wilderness with other nature enthusiasts. The MMBA is pedaling hard against the tide, aiming to keep trails open for cyclists and others who cherish these paths.

Their mission? To get bikers off the ‘proverbial couch’ and into the political arena. As Bob Allen, another founder, notes, it’s high time for cyclists to have a say in the future of these trails.

The battle lines are drawn in the rugged terrain of Montana, where the future of mountain biking hangs in the balance. The MMBA is not just fighting for trails; they’re fighting for a way of life.

For those who wish to join the cause or learn more about the ongoing efforts, pedal over to www.montanamountainbikealliance.com.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Montana Mountain Bike Trails Guide: Explore the best trails Montana has to offer. Visit here.
2. Advocacy 101 for Cyclists: Learn how you can get involved in biking advocacy. Check it out.
3. Montana Wilderness Association: Understand the other side of the debate. Read more.
4. Continental Divide Trail Coalition: Delve into the details of this iconic trail. Learn more.
5. Mountain Biking Safety Tips: Ride safely on Montana’s trails. Safety first.

Ever bitten into a scrumptious cookie and wondered what makes it so deliciously crisp yet, oh so bad for you? It’s time to lift the lid on the enigmatic world of trans fats. Our culinary culprit, trans fat, is a type of dietary fat that’s been both a boon and a bane for food lovers and health enthusiasts alike.

Here’s the lowdown: trans fats are created by hydrogenating vegetable oils. This process transforms the oil into a solid, extending the shelf life and enhancing the flavor stability of foods. Sounds good, right? Not so fast! The downside is as big as a double-decker bus. Trans fats are like cholesterol’s evil twin; they ramp up your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, hiking up the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD).

Now, you’re probably thinking, “But how do I spot these sneaky fats?” Check food labels for terms like ‘partially hydrogenated oils’ – that’s code for trans fats. They’re commonly lurking in processed foods, baked goods, and fried items. So, the next time you’re tempted by that golden, crispy fried chicken or a buttery pastry, remember, these delights might be harboring a not-so-secret ingredient: trans fats.

To steer clear of these fats, try these simple tips:

1. Read Labels: Knowledge is power. Always check the ingredients.
2. Choose Wisely: Opt for unprocessed, fresh foods as much as possible.
3. Cook at Home: When you cook, you control what goes into your food.

While we can’t always avoid trans fats completely, being aware and making informed choices can significantly reduce their impact on our health.

And now, for the cherry on top! Enhance your day with these hand-picked resources:

1. American Heart Association’s Guide to Fats
2. Harvard’s Trans Fat Overview
3. Healthy Cooking Oil Alternatives
4. Delicious Trans Fat-Free Recipes
5. Understanding Food Labels

Armed with this knowledge, embark on a journey towards healthier eating habits, one delicious, trans fat-free bite at a time!

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.

Christmas Rides and Roadside Friendships

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?

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Resources to Enhance Your Day

1. Montana Cycling Routes: Discover the best cycling paths in Montana. Explore Montana’s Routes
2. Lambert’s Latest: Get the latest news on Lambert’s development projects. Lambert News
3. Mountain Bike Training Tips: Prepare for your next race with these expert training tips. Training for the Trails
4. DIY Fixes for Windshield Wipers: Handy tips to fix your windshield wipers. Wiper Fixes
5. Find a Foam Roller: Your guide to finding the perfect foam roller. Foam Roller Finder

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 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’.