Boneshakerbike

Category: Blog Posts

  • Snowless in Missoula

    Snowless in Missoula

    I am about to start breakfast and get a start on this day. I am not looking forward to it. I have never looked forward to this one. I remember being excited to go into work at MARS Stout and at times they had to kick me out at the end of the day. What a contrast. More disappointment came later that evening as I decided (using my foolproof decision machine) to take a ski up in Pattee Canyon.

    I figured that I would not try to skate after going to the Missoula Nordic Website to see thee conditions. I figured I would take my back country set up and go down the Deer Creek Sneak route (a logging road).

    As I started I noticed that the 1 new inch of snow would not be sufficient but we were higher up in the mountains … right? Not right? False? At times I was walking through the forest (no snow) to avoid the bobsled run ready ice covered road. I did enjoy the ski however as the moon was out and making the night as clear as a cloudy day. I could see across the valleys and all the mountains around. Bonner glowed in the distance. it was a nice ski … except for the rocks an lack of snow.

    My ankle did not fair as well and the reason of the ski was to test another boot to see if my skating boots were the culprit. They are not and I must have now a weird foot thing. Paul we can start a foot problem club now … right?

    So its off to make some breakfast and go to the dungeon. Oh yea! Good news! They are no longer watching us on camera at work. I can now pick my nose at will.

  • The Day After The 60K

    The Swan Range This week I have skied 60k (37.3 miles) but have only cycled 18 miles. Is this the bizaro world or what? I have not been outside all day. I plan to go outside since the sun is trying to poke it's way through my blinds asking me to play. My ankle is sore and I fear the there is some kind of tendon pull or hairline crack. The staff infection seems to be under control. The reason for not going outside to play is my soreness after yesterdays …. what should I call it? Adventure, no! Ordeal! Yes! That is a good term to explain it. !Wanna see pictures ?

    PDA Blog : 1/27/07 8.02 am

    I feel sick! I am in Alden's car as I blog to take my mind off of puking all over. We are at that stretch of road between Bonner and Potomac. Real twisty! !See our trip !

    We are headed to the OSCAR ski race in Seeley Lake. I think O means Ovando and the S is Seeley Lake. I don't know what C or A means but R is race. The history is that there was this race from Ovando to Seeley Lake. Now it is a annual 50k race.

    PDA Blog : 1/27/07 3.54 PM

    The race is over and I came in around 2:15, which means that it took me around 5 hours and 15 minutes to do approximately 60k. I know you may be wondering why it was 60 instead of the advertised 50. Well let me tell you!

    Flash To Today

    The scenery of the race course was some of the most beautiful that I have experienced during a race. The Swan Range towering and beyond that the Bob Marshall Wilderness. The scenery was so stunning I escaped into it to endure the pain in my ankle.

    Closeup Of The Swan RangeMy ankle has been injured for about a month and I spent all of last week getting it ready for the race. Starting off it felt good although I noticed that my left ski was un reliable. Like I had no control like my right side.

    The morning was cold and soon I realized that the course was hard and so frozen that only a good strong style and good set of skate ski boots would make the ski controllable. I had neither. Soon I hooked my ski in a snowmobile rut and when I put my weight on my sore side the ski went to the root and redirected my ski in a way that threw my balance off to the left. I balanced on one ski trying to ovoid a fall. I was able to overcome but my ankle bristled with pain. I started to become disgusted.

    Suddenly the parking lot where we started the race was coming into view. Some front runners started to turn around. This was a sure sign that we had gone the wrong way. We turned around to find where we had left the course. In all we had gone a mile off course and the mile back was all uphill. When we reached the intersection (Unmarked) I started to pass all the racers that I had passed before.

    The scenery was gorgeous and I felt like I was going the wrong way. Why did I think this? I was gawking at the mountains so much I was not paying attention. I stopped to loosen my skate boot. The others caught up and surely enough we were still on the course. I soon realized that a loose but hurt worse than a tight one and re tightened. My ankle was hurting so bad my leg was going numb. I cringe now thinking of it.

    Then I reached the climb. I started to climb and noticed that I could catch my friend Alden and some others if I stayed strong. I got into a climbing mind set.

    And hour passed and I was still climbing. I remembered reading about a seven mile climb. I was on it and I will tell you that I never have skate skied a climb that long. The views of the Swan range was just spiritual. I wished I was up on them skinning up.

    On the other side of the pass that I was climbing was the Mission Mountain Range. When I saw them and reached the summit of the climb I was excited and relieved. My ankle hurt but it was all downhill from here. Right! I took and Advil from a first aid person and skied down the other side and back towards the finish line.

    The decent was not as long as I thought and I realized that I was frozen solid. The sweat of the climb had frozen my clothes and I felt like a knight in armor. I felt the Advil start working. My stomach felt funny and my ankle became looser in my boot suggesting that the swelling had gone down. That or the stuff was actually numbing it. One major drawback of Advil while racing is that your upper body cramps up. I couldn't use my poles. I was starting to panic. I was so far out.

    The rest was a matter of pure survival. Making little goal just to survive to the end. After what seemed a week of skiing, suffering, and survival I reached another aid station (a man with a snowmobile full of drink and gue packets). The man said that I was within 5 miles of the finish and it was all downhill.

    At the RaceI decided to double poll the rest of the way. I just couldn't skate any more because my ankle hurt so bad I could not control the ski or put all of my body weight on it. As I got closer I became more excited. When was back on the ski trails near the finish line I started skiing strong again. I ignored my ankle and just went for it.

    I was looking forward to a finish line. I reached a sign that said"<- 50K". The arrow was pointing left. I asked a bystander if the sign was correct. She said it was. As I started to head up the trail away from the direction from the finish line I muttered, "Is this some kind of sick joke"? I skied and skied. I was heading towards the Bob Marshall and the finish line area was the other direction towards Seeley lake. I skied and skied! I kept hoping for the trail to turn and go back. I climbed and climbed. I started to get passed. I was totally out of gas.

    After another 30 minutes I joined the others coming back towards me. They said that the trail could not possibly be the race course. If we turned around though we had to climb another 600 vertical feet to get back out of the valley we just skied into. After some discussion (when has this happened before?), we headed back. I could not continue. I stopped to remove my skis. There was someone behind me suffering too so I decided to keep them on and just wait for him to pass me. I climbed and climbed.

    This was an extra 3 miles at least and soon I was up and over the hill. I struggled to get up enough energy to continue my skate back the finish line. I went the wrong way one more time before taking my final finish place behind someone that I had skied with since getting lost the second time.

    So I guess you can call it an ordeal. My friend Alden had come in an hour and a half in front of me.

  • 25th Annual OSCR 50k

    25th Annual OSCR 50k

    I just checked my lottery tickets for any winners. I got one number right on one of them but overall my 401k is not looking good. I am laying on my side eating breakfast and getting my head together before another stressful day at work. It looks like they are steering me away from PHP and MySQL … anyone know of any job openings where all I can do all day is PHP and web sites? I wish I had more of a graphics background.

    Today is Friday so I will be getting a two day leave from the rock. My plans are going to a ski race (I don’t know yet if I can participate). The race is in Seeley lake Montana and here is a brief description of the 50K course from Lynn Carey:

    “The 50k course at OSCR this year is mildly uphill for the first 8-9 miles,then it tilts up pretty dramatically for 3-4 miles. After the aid station it will be pretty much down hill.

    Near the end you will turn onto the Augie creek cut off road, soon after that you will enter the ski trails at the west gate and follow the 10k course back to the finish line. Anyone who is not in real good shape or competing for a high place finish should plan to start at 9AM and tour the course. This is a celebration of 25 years of OSCR and an adventure, treat it as such. Check out the Seeley Trails snow/grooming page for Lynn’s comments on aid stations and hydration.” ~MissoulaNordic Org

    Last night I hiked with my dog Marcy for about two hours. We hiked up South Sentinel through the gulch between Sentinel and itself. We hike over the ridge and down the Pengally Ridge Trail. We hiked around 5.6 miles and did around 1,943 ft of climbing.

    This weekend is all about recovering and / or going to a doctor to help me with my staff infection. In those plans I hope to try and get some more pictures done and try to re-adjust my training regimen in order to get started early for the first mountain bike race of the season in about a month or so.

    Everyone have a good day and weekend.

  • 50k Race This Weekend

    50k Race This Weekend

    Got my hot water bottle positioned so I can sit down for the first time today. I have made breakfast even though my body fat project is in a lull. And now I can blog just before I realize that I am late for work and vowing to never blog again. Time is precious. I have also went through the latest “Windbriefs” blog to find two new developments in the North Country Ski culture. I sure do miss Plattsburgh New York.

    I don’t know how one prepares for this weekends ski race with conditions that we ave here in Missoula Montana. We have been experiencing warm weather and with that the local haunts are not ski-able. About the only thing left to do is go cycling or hiking; but then I can not go cycling because of a recent health development.

    Tonight I plan to hike around 2 hours and my route is up for debate in my twisted mind. I want to gear up for this Saturday when my friend and I head out to Seeley for a 50k race. I haven’t even skied for two weeks and I wonder if I can even finish the race. My ankle was previously injured but is now feeling better. Tonight will be the fist time on a boot, so I’ll see.

    And … hiking has it’s merits. Marcy for example will benefit from this decision to go hiking tonight. She loves the hike, the mountains, and running wild. Even though my last paycheck was not large enough to even buy her food for this big adventure.

    Ok, before this blog goes into a e-bitching session I will just log off. Have a good day.

  • Reflecting on Past Glories: Gearing Up for Lewiston

    Reflecting on Past Glories: Gearing Up for Lewiston

    The Countdown to Lewiston: Pre-Season Musings

    The calendar’s about to flip another page, and Lewiston, Idaho looms on the horizon like a beacon for us mountain biking enthusiasts. It’s almost surreal to think that in just over a month, I’ll be revving up for the first race of the 2007 season. And here I am, nestled in a cozy corner on a frosty winter evening, lost in the whirlwind of thoughts about my upcoming pre-season rides in April.

    Last Year’s Adventures: A Walk Down Memory Lane

    I find myself meandering down memory lane, reminiscing about last year’s escapades. You see, I’ve unearthed some gems – four pictures from a ride towards the end of April last year. They’re snapshots from my journey on the Triple Divide Ride (do check out “To Hel and Back” for that story), and I realized I hadn’t shared them yet. So, why not sprinkle a bit of that old magic on this chilly evening?

    Here they are, waiting for your eyes and comments. Rate them, critique them, or just enjoy them – your call.

    A Promise Kept: The Power of Friendship

    But hey, there’s more to these photos than just a trip down nostalgia lane. They’re a testament to a promise I made. A buddy of mine pulled off something impressive, and I vowed to share these photos if he succeeded. Well, he did, and here I am, staying true to my word. Last night, while visiting some friends, we dived into a treasure trove of memories. It’s astonishing to realize how many stories are still untold, captured in those unshared pictures. In the next couple of weeks, I aim to bridge that gap.

    Today’s Ride: The Clinton Ride Conquest

    Oh, and about today! I hit the Clinton Ride, clocking in at just over two hours – my personal record on this trail! The sun was out, playing a delightful game of hide and seek with the clouds, and the temperature hovered around a brisk 35 degrees. Perhaps it’s this splendid day that’s got me all revved up about the upcoming rides.

    Looking Forward

    As I gear up for the pre-season, these memories and today’s exhilarating ride serve as a powerful reminder of the journey so far and the excitement that lies ahead. Lewiston, here I come!

    Resources

    1. An article detailing the 26th edition of the race, including its challenges and the eco-friendly initiatives undertaken: To Hell and Back: The Legend Continues – mtbapp.

    2. Information on the 25th edition of the race, including the course layout and rider experiences: Celebrating 25 Years of Riding To Hell and Back.

    3. More details about the 26th edition, including changes to the race route and the community vibe at the event: To Hell and Back: The Legend Continues with the 26th Edition.

    4. For additional event information, like route starts and distances: To Hell and Back – StageRaces.com.

    5. Entry details and descriptions of the race, including information on accommodation and pricing: To Hell and Back MTB Stage Race – Entry Ninja.

  • Biking Through the Freeze

    Biking Through the Freeze

    Last night, I found myself amidst a feast at a party, piling on calories like a freight train chugging to Saint Louis. But the real story here isn’t about the food, it’s about the aftermath. Post-feasting, I joined Marcy for a hike. Sure, it uplifted my spirits, but the scale this morning had a different tale to tell. It nudged me, rather insistently, towards my road bike.

    Today’s journey? A 22-mile round trip to Clinton. Now, 22 miles might not sound daunting, but let’s paint the full picture. Imagine cycling in a frigid 19 degrees, dodging icy patches on the road. The silver lining? Daylight – something that’s been a rare guest this week.

    Despite today’s icy adventure, it’s been a somewhat disheartening week. Work stress aside, my ankle’s been a real party pooper. It’s ironic – I can walk barefoot with ease, but put on a boot, and suddenly, I’m hobbling around. This ankle saga reached its peak during my skate skiing attempt in Pattee Canyon last Thursday. Let’s just say, I ended the night with more of a limp than a glide.

    In the midst of this, I’ve been on a quest, scouting out summer race locations. But tonight, I’m pressing pause on all that. It’s movie night, and my ankle insists on it. So, as I sign off and dive into cinematic escapism, here’s to hoping the coming week brings less ice and more ease!

  • Ski Race and Season Planning

    Racing and Planning: A Weekend on Skis and Strategy

    January 7, 2007, finds me nestled in the heart of ski race season planning, my mind buzzing with the excitement and complexities of the sport.

    Just this Saturday, I embarked on an adventurous race at Seeley Lake, Montana, alongside my friend Alden. We opted for the challenging “2 race” format, tackling 10k on classic skis before switching to skate skis for another 10k stretch. The race was tight, with Alden and I finishing within a minute of each other. Despite my struggles with classical technique and a bit of confusion during the transition (I even missed my start time!), the experience was exhilarating. Keep an eye on Missoula Nordic for the official results.

    Today, nursing a sore ankle from last week’s rocky misadventure, I stayed indoors. It was a day for reflection and planning, interspersed with some football watching. A brief respite came in the form of a hike in Pattee Canyon with Marcy, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the race season buzz. I’ve also started piecing together next year’s training plan, building on last year’s races. For those interested in my journey or planning their own, check out my new year’s log and race list.

    So, that was my weekend: a blend of adrenaline, strategy, and a touch of nature’s calm. I hope your weekends were just as fulfilling and eventful!

    Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just getting started, the world of Nordic skiing is rich with opportunity. For those looking to dive in, Beginner’s Guide to Nordic Skiing is a great resource. And if you’re in the mood for some scenic Montana trails, Explore Seeley Lake offers breathtaking routes for all skill levels. Let the snow be your canvas as you carve out your own winter story!

  • Weekly Online Meeting Canceled

    Weekly Online Meeting Canceled

    Speaking of transitions, some news on the personal front – I’m putting the Weekly Online Meeting on hold. It started as a Friends and Family thing about four years ago, and while it’s been great, I’m just not in the right headspace for it right now. Low interest, high stress, you get the drift. But hey, I’m still here for a chat, anytime. We can even schedule a time if you want a more structured catch-up. I’m planning to use this extra time to hunt for new employment opportunities and to find a better mental space. It’s all about finding that balance, right?

    So, that’s where I’m at, folks. Skiing under the stars, seeking new beginnings, and always up for a chat. Stay tuned for more updates, and remember, no matter how tough the transition, there’s always a path forward.

    Resources to Enhance Your Day:

    1. Pattee Canyon Recreation Area: Discover the beauty of Pattee Canyon
    2. Mental Wellness Tips: Strategies for Improving Mental Health
    3. Career Change Guidance: Navigating a Career Transition
    4. Online Chat Platforms: Stay Connected with Friends
    5. Starlit Skiing Adventures: Exploring Night Skiing

    There you have it – my life lately, wrapped up in a blog post. Keep moving forward, everyone! 🌟

  • So Long Lambert

    Montana Memories: From Lambert to Missoula

    As I pack up my car tonight in Lambert, the chilly zero degrees air nips at my fingers, a stark contrast to the slightly warmer 19 degrees back home in Missoula. It’s a quiet evening for me, reflecting on the whirlwind of a vacation I’ve had, while the rest of my crew paints the town red in Sidney.

    My journey began last Friday, after braving two days of icy roads. The adventure kicked off with a bang at a big party for my uncle Dave’s 60th birthday. Imagine a room filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and stories that warm the heart more than any fireplace could.

    Saturday was a day of digital escapades, as I dived into “Call of Duty” 3 with my cousins. The surround sound system and massive HDTV in their basement made me green with envy. The evening was a more local flavor, as I mingled with the town folk at the only bar in Lambert, playing darts and enjoying the night.

    Today, I found myself lacing up my running shoes, regaining a sense of normalcy and dignity. As I pack, I can’t help but feel a tinge of sadness that this visit is drawing to a close.

    As dawn breaks, I’ll be on the road, the beetle packed and ready to go. Missoula, here I come, with a heart full of new memories and a smile that just won’t fade.

    Resources to Enhance Your Day

    1. Visit Montana: Discover the beauty and adventures that Montana has to offer.
    2. Road Trip Essentials: Packing tips and essentials for your next road trip.
    3. Classic Dart Games: Learn the rules and techniques of various dart games.
    4. Call of Duty Strategies: Up your game with these Call of Duty tips and strategies.
    5. Running in Cold Weather: Tips for running safely and comfortably in cold conditions.

  • Hello From Lambert

    Hello! I am finally here in Lambert, Montana. The roads were a nightmare! I left after work on Thursday and finally arrived here at 2PM this evening. Everything went well until Butte, where I hit black ice all the way to Big Timber. I called my aunt in Billings and she said that she would wait up, so I continued.

    A ridgeline of dread

    Finally, after driving another leg to Billings at a maximum of 40 mph, the black ice still covered the roads. I stayed the night in Billings before moving on East. It took me another 6 hours and just when I thought I drove the worst icy conditions ever … it got worse. I was driving at 40 mph and still drifting off the road. When I would stop, I could not get going again.

    But I finally made it, and now we are all enjoying uncle Dave’s 60th birthday. There are around 60 people in the garage. I thought I would take a break to blog that I have arrived safe and sound. I’ll call all you people I promised tomorrow. Until then. Goodnight from Lambert.

  • Road Trip

    Road Trip

    The car is ready, gassed up, and Marcy is waiting back home for the big trip out east to Lambert Montana [map ]. Lambert is a cozy little community out in the middle of nowhere just south of Sidney. I will be going to my aunts where we are planning a big swarray for my uncle's birthday (Christmas for me since I spent it on a mountain).

    The car took some doing! I had to fashion a CD case cover into a turn light lens. I used duct tape to hold it in place. I replaced two bulbs so that I wont get pulled over. The other day I had a situation where if I didn't use my credit card to buy rubber I would of not made it home. The upside … new tires on the front. The downside … going into debt with CITI Bank is not where you want to go.

    Ok! So everything is packed and as soon as I get out of work I am headed to Billings. Ill spend the night there and continue on to Lambert in the morning. I did not get any sleep last night due to problems getting "The Dark Tower" onto my MP3 player. Ill need the audio book to pass the time as I drive the million miles or so to Lambert.

  • How Far Can I Get

    How Far Can I Get

    … before my tire blows out. Good morning! Today you are all taking something back to the store for exchange and for that reason I will stay away from the departments stores. Like I hang out there anyways. I just drank my first cup of coffee and posted a Todash . Today I go back to work and I will tell you I am not looking forward to it.

    This will be a tough week. I still have laundry to do, a going away party for a co worker, and prepare for a trip to Lambert . I have just found out that I will be going to Lambert alone as my aunt has had to cancel. We were going to surprise Aunt Paula with an appearance by Aunt Wanda.

    This means that I must make a decision on buying a new tire for the car so I don't blow out the cracked one. Hmmmm … is there one more HUGE trip left in the tire? I really don't want to go into dept any more. I already know I don't have enough gas money to make it out there and back so I will have to work the street corners to make it back home some day.

    I know all this sounds like I am skipping town and maybe I am. Is there any reason for me to come back? Heck, I spent the entire Christmas day alone. Like I want to stay at my present job. I think I will pack up the beetle and move out. After Aunt Paula gets tired of me I can continue on out to the East coast and finally Plattsburgh.

    Is this my plan … stay tuned! May be where my tire gives out is where I stay. Yesterday I snow-shooed in the Bitterroot and I will save that blog when I post the pictures. So I must prepare breakfast and desperately try to get the week started. It is a busy one, a stressful one, and if I do not get an idea that I will get a big enough pay check next pay day then it will be my last one.

  • Ski Race and Winter Adventures at Lubrecht Forest

    Hey, adventure enthusiasts! Today, I’m sharing a little slice of my life that’s sure to ignite the winter spirit in you. Picture this: a brisk December morning, a steaming cup of coffee, and a spontaneous urge to blog. That’s how my day began. But it’s what unfolded next that’s the real story – a unique ski race at Lubrecht Forest, and my own hiking escapade up University Mountain.

    The Fun Race at Lubrecht Forest – A Skier’s Delight

    Lubrecht Forest, a hidden gem owned by the University of Montana, situated a scenic 29 miles from Missoula, hosted an unconventional ski race. The event, organized by the Missoula Nordic Ski Club, promised a laid-back yet exhilarating experience.

    Here’s the twist: it was a 7-kilometer freestyle race with no set tracks – sorry to the classic technique lovers! The entry fee? Just a batch of homemade cookies or brownies to share, making it a deliciously unique event. The focus was on fun, participation, and of course, the post-race cookie feast. This wasn’t just an adult race; plans for a kid’s race and sprints added to the family-friendly vibe.

    My Own Adventure – Hiking University Mountain

    After the ski race excitement, I embarked on my own adventure. I set out for a two-hour hike up University Mountain, leading to the iconic Beacon. Though the journey was challenging (a change in plans from skiing to hiking meant a quick dash back to town for hiking boots), it was rewarding. The setting sun and the serene environment offered a spiritual experience. Plus, Marcy’s display of her snow skills was a sight to behold!

    The Takeaway

    Whether you’re skiing in a fun race or hiking up a mountain, there’s something magical about the Montana outdoors in winter. It’s about embracing the cold, the snow, and the community spirit. So, grab your skis, hiking boots, or just a batch of cookies, and make the most of this winter season!

    Explore More:

    1. Missoula Nordic Ski Club: Get the latest updates on ski events and trails around Missoula. Visit Website
    2. Lubrecht Forest: Discover more about this beautiful forest owned by the University of Montana. Learn More
    3. University of Montana Outdoor Program: Offers great resources and programs for outdoor enthusiasts. Check It Out
    4. Hiking Tips for Beginners: If you’re inspired to start hiking, this guide is a great place to start. Read More
    5. Winter Baking Recipes: Perfect your baking skills for the next ski race entry fee! Get Recipes

    Remember, winter adventures are all about the experience, the community, and the memories you create. Stay warm and adventurous!

  • Worse In Winter

    Worse In Winter

    Good morning! It is raining outside and it looks like I hit the “ride your bike” window by going out on a road bike ride last night. What are the difficulties? Well it is dark for one and of course it is dangerously cold.

    I finally shook off all the stress to head out on my ride around 6:30 last night. I was feeling great with the weather slightly warmer than usual. The roads were OK but if it got a little colder would freeze up. That is another caveat in the winter. You could go out on a ride and the weather may just hut you down 20 miles out of town.

    As I turned around to head back into town for the Tuesday Night Online Meeting I flatted. I was just getting over a riser and sat down to buzz down the other side when I got that ever familiar squishy yet jarring sensation from the rear wheel. I not only flatted but I hit a object that sliced up my tire.

    I was able to use the old tube as a tire patch and a new tube with an extended valve (learned from the last walk home) to fix-er up. I was off but since I was going over time my light system went dead.

    Not to worry! I had a back up battery pack and that got me home safe and sound. Well now it is time for work. On top of it all I have to scrounge together my change to purchase a new tube. I will use a patch kit to fix my tire for now. Safe riding to you all!

  • Winter Storm Watch Tonight

    D BurnerGood morning from Missoula Montana. Ahh the doldrums of winter! I was just online reading Doug Burners Blog (picture by Doug Burner as well).

    "The last couple of days I've been dinking around with the trailer. It's the trailer that Eric used last year which is being handed over to the woman's team because the men are using a different trailer. There really isn't much to do since Eric kept it in great shape. Mostly I'm just figuring out the spacing and where stuff will go. You know, stuff like finding a secure spot for a coffee maker (found a coffee grinder on sale today too). Maybe a little touch up paint here and there. Last week, a second axle and a set of brakes were installed so it should handle really well." ~Burner

     

    I also voiced my opinions about next years MORS series. I am hoping that the Wild Rockies have a series for 2007. This weekend has three things going on. We have Buffalo Hill Race, RM Tele Ski, and Lubrecht Fun Race . I am hoping for the event at Lubrecht Forest. My ski form is coming into view and I am feeling excited for the cross country ski season.

    Well it is off to work for me (Yuk). Take care everyone and keep in touch (comment on this site).

  • Griz VS UMass Tonight

    It is apparent I have been offline quite a while as I have 3652 emails waiting for me in my inbox. whew! I ran in a 5k last weekend and went skiing with a friend. This week I had to recover from too much exercise on the weekends. Tonight is the big football game between the Griz and UMass. And of course this weekend is working itself into a skI frenzy.

    Last weekend I went to Frenchtown to run the Freezer Burn 5k. I came in in 4th place with a time of 22:12. Not too bad considering the last time I ran was a couple years ago in the Double Dip Run. I started out and ran most of the race in third but was passed in the end by a scrappy cross country runner from one of the local schools.

    On Sunday I went to Lolo Pass with Alden and he proceeded to ski me into the ground until we finally made it back to the car after what seemed to be 4 hours of skiing. That was the last time I walked or did anything for three days. I became very ill and could get around. I will never skate skI for more that two hours at a time. Also learned is to stay on the trails groomed for skating … very important!

    Tonight is the Griz game and I had to stay up until 1 AM last Wednesday morning to score some last remaining seats. The game has been sold out ever since. the news is reporting that we will see the largest crowds ever at Washington Griz Stadium. Go Griz.

    This weekend is probably looking like ill be skiing. Tomorrow I am thinking about a skI trip with the Rocky mountaineers. Sunday looks like Lolo pass with some friends. Whatever the case … its beginning to look a lot like winter.

  • Prepairing To Ski

    Prepairing To Ski

    Hello from my apartment where I get ready for a 5k running race this morning. No! I have not trained for running and I have not run except for cyclocross season. But … It Is a race and that Is what I am looking for. Also at $5.00 to register this falls Into why not, It Is almost free category.

    This week I have been thinking about my ski situation. I am pretty set for tele skiing but as far as skate, classic and back country I have broken equipment. This week I was able to patch my BC setup with some chain parts and screws. I think It will do the trick (see photo ).

    So tomorrow Is up In the air but one thing Is certain. I will be skiing. Snow bowl already has a 36 Inch base and It Is barely December. heck, It Isn’t even officially winter yet. I just read Doug Burner’s Blog and they are even getting the white stuff In Wisconsin. funny! Europe has no snow and they are canceling the World Cup Ski Races. I read about some yurt skiing In “Outside Missoula ” magazine so I guess this Is the place to be.

    This week I was able to get out twice for some skiing up In Pattee Canyon. the first trek was up University mountain and back down (busting my boots again, thus the new fix). the second ski was on the same mountain but a longer loop that skirts around the beast.

    Well, I better get my tights on and running shoes. It Is a frosty one today. Also, today Is a Griz playoff game and I have a pizza ready and I’ll be picking up a growler of beer If I can scrape together some change. Tomorrow …. hmm, a big possibility of tele on Fuji! Unless I can find one NNN binding and In that case skating! Go Griz!

  • First Ski

    Hello from my apartment in Missoula Montana. i just got done posting a couple things and thought I must blog a short mention of last nights activities. I had a weird dream last night so I posted it to my Going Todash site. Also I have posted a calendar item about this Saturday when the Griz take the field in the playoffs. I am hoping to do a 5k run in the morning and relax and recover in front of the TV watching the Griz in the afternoon. Anyone want to watch the game together? let me know!

    This Sunday i hope to go skiing or at the very least cycling but last night was my first ski of the season. I headed up Pattee Canyon to the FOLF course to see if there was enough snow to ski. And there was! A good covering and the ski area was in good shape. i brought Marcy so i couldn’t ski the area and headed up University Mountain to see how far I could ski up.

    Astonishingly i skied all the way to where the route gets steep and gains the ridge to the top. I hiked up to the next road then up onto the ridge.

    I skied the rest of the way to the summit of the Mountain (the beacon). the view was great and I yelled in victory. I decided to ski all the way down and take a side road to lengthen the ski.

    Half way down the ridge I hit a large rock and re-broke my boot but it was not fatal for my set up. I was still able to ski down. I took a side road that wound around to the beacon road and blasted down hitting the occasional rock. It was a surprisingly fast decent and with a little more snow could be a weekly event for me.

    So now it is off to work and the stresses that thrown a dark cloud over this kind of happiness. By noon I will have had at least three anxiety attacks and i will not even know that I do get to escape to the summits once n a while. have a good day all!