Category: Blog Posts

Here I am, perched on University Ridge, where the night paints its masterpiece in contrasting strokes. To my right, the lights of Missoula twinkle like a constellation grounded on earth, a gentle reminder of human presence in the vastness of night. To my left, an open ridge unfolds, its golden grasses dancing gracefully in the moonlight, as if swaying to a melody only the night wind knows.

The moon, in its full glory tonight, shines with an intensity that rivals the headlights of an oncoming car. Its luminous beams, so unexpectedly brilliant, make me wish for sunglasses – a whimsical thought in this nocturnal serenity. The light bathes the landscape in a surreal glow, turning the ordinary into something magical.

But as the night deepens, so does the chill in the air. It’s a crisp reminder of nature’s indifference to human comfort. The cold nips at my skin, whispering that it’s time to leave this moonlit reverie. Reluctantly, I prepare to hike down, carrying with me the memories of this serene moment on University Ridge, where the moon was my companion, and the night, my canvas.

Today’s hike was a tale of two peaks and a path less traveled. I embarked on what I fondly call the ‘Double Dipper’ – a journey that starts with an ascent up Pengally Ridge, winds to the summit of South Sentinel, and then navigates over to Main Sentinel. The trek is a blend of endurance and agility, a dance with nature’s rugged terrain.

Reaching the top of South Sentinel felt like conquering a small kingdom. The view from here stretches far and wide, a canvas of nature’s grand design. But the journey wasn’t over. I then made my way to Main Sentinel, where the landscape shifts subtly, offering a new perspective of the world below.

The traverse between the two mountains presented its own challenge. Here, ice had claimed the path, turning each step into a careful negotiation with the elements. This section tested my resolve, a slippery bridge between two majestic peaks.

Despite the icy obstacle, the weather was an ally for most of the hike. The air was crisp, with a gentle breeze that grew more playful atop the peaks. It was nature’s own soundtrack, a symphony of wind and rustling leaves.

From start to finish, this ‘Double Dipper’ took me around 1 hour and 45 minutes. It was a journey marked by breathtaking vistas, challenging transitions, and the serene beauty of the great outdoors. As I descended back to my car parked at Gas Alley, there was a sense of accomplishment, a feeling that only comes from embracing the adventure and unpredictability of nature’s paths.

What a day! Picture this – you finally get your computer back after a month-long hiatus, dreams of tackling that mountain of emails dancing in your head. Then, bam! The modem waves a white flag. Off you trot to Best Buy, only to hear the dreaded words: “It might be the motherboard.” And just like that, your beloved tech is California-bound once more.

It’s like waiting for a soufflé that never rises, isn’t it? At what point do you throw in the towel and demand a new computer? Or better yet, when do you get the green light to launch the old one into the scenic Blackfoot River? Talk about a dramatic end to a tech saga!

This blog post is a deviation from my New Year’s resolution of crafting only cheery stories. But hey, life has its own plans, right? Sometimes, it serves you lemons, and other times, it hands you a faulty modem.

So here’s to the ups and downs, the tech troubles, and the whimsical thoughts of giving our gadgets a watery farewell. Who knows, maybe a fish might appreciate a motherboard more than we do!

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Guide to Handling Tech Frustrations: A handy resource for staying cool when your gadgets decide to test your patience.
2. Best Buy’s Exchange Policy: Get familiar with the ins and outs of Best Buy’s exchange policies – just in case!
3. Blackfoot River Guide: Not for throwing computers, but for enjoying some serene moments away from tech woes.
4. Email Management Tips: Strategies to tackle that overflowing inbox when your computer finally decides to cooperate.
5. Tech Support Forums: A community of tech enthusiasts who might just have the answers to your hardware headaches.

Ever have one of those days where everything feels like an uphill battle? That was me today, coming down University Mountain with a head full of thoughts about my sidelined computing passions. My trusty computer, a gateway to my hobbies and livelihood in programming, photography, and web communication, is out of commission. And today, I found out the wait’s not over yet.

But let’s talk about tonight’s adventure – a classic tale of urban frustration. Picture this: I’m all set for the Friends and Family Online Meeting. First stop, Break Espresso. Sounds simple, right? Not so fast! Not a single seat in sight. So, what’s a person to do? Embark on a chilly quest through the streets, hunting for that elusive Wi-Fi signal.

Imagine me, braving the cold, phone in hand, eyes peeled for a hotspot. Alas, the Internet gods weren’t smiling down on me tonight. In the end, I found myself huddled outside the Kettle House, squeezing out a post to my group as they closed up shop.

And here’s where I hit another bump – my PDA’s clipboard is full. Yep, technology’s really testing my patience today. So, I’ll have to wrap up this blog here. But hey, every cloud has a silver lining, right? At least I got to enjoy a scenic walk through our lovely town, even if it was a bit on the frosty side!

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. University Mountain Trails: For those seeking a breath of fresh air and a break from tech troubles.
2. Break Espresso: A cozy spot for coffee lovers (but maybe check for seating availability first!).
3. Wi-Fi Finder Apps: Never wander aimlessly for a hotspot again with these handy apps.
4. Kettle House Brewery: A great local spot to wind down after a long day (even if it’s just outside their doors).
5. PDA Management Tips: Because sometimes, even our handheld helpers need a little help.

There’s something magical about hiking in Missoula, especially when you find yourself on University Mountain Ridge. The contrast of elements can be astonishing – one moment you’re bathed in golden sunshine, the next, you’re nestled under a tree, facing a brisk wind and a slightly chilly afternoon.

That’s exactly where Marcy and I found ourselves on this day in January 2006. We had just hiked up to my favorite secluded spot. As we looked off toward Lolo Peak, the valley below was a dazzling canvas of sunlight, while our little nook seemed to embrace the cloud and wind with a stubborn, yet cozy charm.

Looking westward, the drama of the Montana landscape unfolded – a snowstorm brewing over the Nine Mile Valley. But here, on the ridge, the snow was sparse. The trail was nearly dry, offering a glimpse of summer hiking bliss. If not for the biting wind and the occasional shooting pain running down my leg, I could almost fool myself into thinking it was a warm, lazy day in July.

Marcy, ever the adventurous companion, seemed unfazed by the weather. She trotted along, her tail wagging in that infectious way dogs have when they’re simply happy to be out and about with their human.

But the reality of winter hiking soon caught up with me. My thumbs, bearing the brunt of the cold, started to feel like icicles. It was a clear signal – time to head back down. The thought of heated seats in the car beckoned like a warm embrace after a long day.

As we made our way down, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for these small adventures. They’re the ones that stitch together the fabric of our memories, filled with contrasting hues of weather, warmth, and the companionship of a loyal dog.

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Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Missoula Hiking Guide – Discover the best trails around Missoula.
2. Winter Hiking Tips – Stay safe and warm on your hikes.
3. Dog-Friendly Trails in Montana – Explore trails where your four-legged friends are welcome.
4. Montana Weather Updates – Stay ahead of the weather before planning your hike.
5. Nature’s Pain Relief – Natural ways to deal with those pesky shooting pains.

It’s January 7, 2006, and while winter holds most in its chilly embrace, here in Missoula, the sun grants us a reprieve perfect for a bike ride. Today, I’m embarking on a route I fondly call Pattee – Deer Creek – East Missoula.

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves—it’s hardly cycling season. Football playoffs are in full swing (Go New England Patriots!), yet the call of the outdoors is too strong to resist. The day began in the company of my bike, performing a meticulous tune-up. New front brakes, a cleanup of the rear brakes and drivetrain—it’s this dedicated prep time that inadvertently set the stage for today’s demanding adventure.

Rolling out around noon, the weather seemed undecided, flirting with both rain and snow. Pattee Canyon greeted me with a layer of ice, a challenge I hadn’t anticipated. As I ventured further, a snowstorm enveloped the landscape, transforming the road into a winter wonderland. Unwilling to halt, I navigated the edge of the ditch, where crusty snow offered better traction.

Descending Deer Creek road, I braved the onslaught of freezing rain, a test of endurance and will. But the real kicker? A flat tire just as I neared East Missoula. That was the moment when adventure met adversity.

Now, back home, football on TV, and coziness reclaiming its place, the day’s trials feel distant. The ordeal of a frozen CO2 cartridge sticking to my numb fingers fades, replaced by thoughts of ice cream and the warmth of a well-deserved nap.

For those inspired to brave the elements on two wheels, Winter Cycling Tips offers invaluable advice. And if you’re looking to gear up for your next cold-weather ride, Missoula Bicycle Works has everything you need. Remember, even in the heart of winter, the roads can be your playground!

I slept real well last night. Maybe it is the real bed or the quietness of Lambert. Maybe my mind is reflecting my struggle to come up with something to blog. Not too much to bitch about and not too much to do. A mind vacation.

Yesterday started with biscuits and gravy which is all right by me. After breakfast is when the real fun begun.

Aunt Paula got a Roomba. A Roomba is a robot vacuum cleaner. The little guy is tenacious and very thorough. 5 of us followed the little Roomba around all day to see where it would clean next.

Ol Roomba is as fun to watch as any house robot and makes house cleaning fun with its little blue “Found Dirt” light and dirt attack mode. Roomba currently heading for the bathroom has it’s followers heading into another room so I better run.

It’s the morning after. Aunt Paula, Grandma Ruby, and myself. We are sitting around talking about last night’s Holiday Swaray here in a wind-swept and slightly chilly Lambert. Myself … I remember my new found title as Bean Bag Grand Champion.

Mostly because I had slightly less alcohol. I played two dozen games, only losing twice. The game, Bean Bags, is mostly like horse-shoes but done with bean bags and wooden apparatus with a hole in it.

The party was a tremendous success mostly because of Uncle Dave’s big ass garage … ah, indoor area.

Signing off from Lambert, Montana.

Well, here I am at the trail head a little behind. I must hump it up University Ridge if I am going to catch the sun rise. Its 31 degrees with Inversion in the valley. Marcy is with me and anxious to go.

7.14 am : It has become apparent I don't need snow shoes so I am taking them off along with my warm clothes. The breeze seems warm and it is like spring and I start up the south ridge from the upper jeep trail directly north of the upper parking lot. Must get going … here comes the sun. The Christmas lights give the cloud quilt over Missoula an interesting glow.

7.58 am : I have not at the top, only 600 feet to go. I am setting up for some sunrise shots. There is a huge storm system sweeping over the Bitteroot and heading towards me. The sun is supposed to rise around 8:15 but it is very light out now and has been so for 30 minutes. Very strong winds up here around 35 to 40 MPH.

8.22 am : The show has begun!

9.12 am : Show is over. I went up the ridge to the top taking pictures the entire way. It dos'nt feel like an extra ordinary set of shots. The sun came up behind a mountain so that wasn't great. I think if I was on the far East Ridge near the Eastern towers of the University Range, I could of got some better shots going down the valley.

Now I am back at base camp that I set up at 8 AM. Marcy seems to be happy and I have had a great time. Merry Holidays!

I feel like I could spend the entire day up here above the clouds. I know that sooner or later I will get cold or hungry. My ass is already cold from sitting in this snow bank. Well so long from the Top of University Mountain.

10.38 am : Back at the car. The hike down wad great. I thought about the gifts that I found on my doorstep this morning. It was like Santa Claus had come overnight. I must of been a good boy this year.

One gift was from my landlord and includes a special holiday mixture (adult beverage). The second gift was the best. My friend Julie had dropped off a basket full of her home made ginger snaps. I will tell you this; they are quite possibly the yummiest cookies on the planet … and, I don't care for ginger either.

So I have had a good Christmas so far and I hope everyone out there has a great Holiday as well. Signing off from the Pattee Canyon trail head.

Woke up early with a huge headache. This was about 6 am and I am now just getting down to making breakfast. I have just adjusted the little radio that I have to receive NPR with minimal interference. I am about to crack some eggs as Marcy looks on contently.

… fast forward to 1.14 PM. Damn, using a PDA as a main computer is proving to be almost impossible. I have been trying to edit my sisters blog all day. My Palm has crashed so many times I am going mad.

I finally got my mail and now that I can not think of what I wanted to say or scream, I am leaving. Happy Holidays from Break Expresso.

There’s something magical about reaching the peak just as the evening sky turns into a canvas of twinkling stars. It was 6.05 PM, and I had just conquered South Sentinel Mountain, a journey that took me along the scenic Pengally Ridge Trail – or as I fondly call it, the South Ridge.

As I stood there, the city below was a distant sparkle, like a giant Christmas tree decorated in thousands of lights. The clouds, touched by the city’s glow, wore an orange hue, adding to the surreal beauty of the moment.

But this ascent wasn’t just about the view. It was a moment of reflection, away from the chaos of work and the absurdities of office politics. There’s something about the cold breeze at the summit that puts everything into perspective.

The descent was a race against the cold and hunger, a reminder of the mountain’s unyielding nature. By 6.52 PM, back on familiar ground, I felt a mix of relief and accomplishment. The mountain had once again offered its silent wisdom, and I, a weary hiker, had listened.

Resources to Enhance Your Day:

1. Trail Guide to Pengally Ridge: For a detailed exploration, check out Pengally Ridge Hiking Guide.
2. Mountain Photography Tips: Capture those breathtaking views with tips from Mountain Photo Essentials.
3. Hiking Gear Essentials: Gear up properly with recommendations from Outdoor Gear Lab.
4. Mindfulness in Nature: Learn to find serenity on your hikes at Nature Mindfulness.
5. Local Eateries Near South Sentinel: Refuel with the best local cuisine listed on Sentinel Mountain Eats.

Holidays, huh? They’re supposed to be all about joy and cheer. Well, not always. Sometimes, it’s more like a comedy of errors, a series of unfortunate events that make you want to scream, “Merry whatever!”

Picture this: you’re at your favorite coffee shop, rehashing the absurdity of office holiday parties. Secret Santa, anyone? More like Secret Stress-a. These office traditions can be a mixed bag of awkward gift exchanges and forced merriment. As you narrate this to your friend, you’re really feeling the holiday spirit (note the sarcasm).

Then, as if on cue, your day takes a nosedive. You hop on your bike, and what happens? The chain breaks. Oh, and did I mention it’s freezing cold? Like, five degrees below zero. There you are, stranded in the middle of the road, making a scene because, honestly, what else is there to do?

Finally, you arrive at work, seeking solace among friendly faces. But nope, not today. The office is filled with grumbles, side-eye glances, and under-the-breath comments. Everyone’s in a foul mood, spreading anything but holiday cheer.

So, there you have it. A day that makes you want to say, “Happy freaking holidays!” But hey, there’s a silver lining here. These moments make for great stories, the kind you laugh about years later. So, chin up, and remember, it’s just a day. Tomorrow’s a new one, hopefully with fewer broken bike chains and a bit more cheer.

Holiday Resources for the Weary Soul

1. The Art of Surviving Office Holidays – A hilarious guide to navigating office holiday parties, gift exchanges, and more.
2. Bicycle Maintenance 101 – Tips and tricks to keep your bike in top shape, especially during the winter months.
3. Finding Humor in the Holidays – A collection of funny holiday stories and advice on how to keep your spirits high, no matter what.
4. Guide to Office Etiquette – A practical guide to maintaining peace and professionalism in the workplace, holiday season or not.
5. Staying Warm and Safe in Winter – Essential tips for staying warm and safe during the coldest months, whether you’re biking, walking, or just braving the outdoors.

While I wait for a situation to debug the latest Sophos, I might as well blog. Today started out bad enough, but now I find myself in the back room at MARS Stout trying to get Sophos to work. Sophos is an antivirus/worm/trojan application and is supposed to be a decent package. It’s a pain to configure, and now we have a machine that seems to dislike it altogether. Alas, I’ll be stuck in the back room today.

This weekend was pretty low-key. I slept all day Saturday, and yesterday I went skiing with some friends out at the Rattlesnake Rec Area. It turned out to be a perfect opportunity to learn tele-turns. We had a great time. I even found enough time afterward to take a nap and clean the house. Lazy… hazy… days of winter!