I got an email from a friend today asking what my plans were for Christmas, … thanks for writing everyone!
I am planning to go to Hamilton for Christmas to visit a friend's family for Christmas.
I would go to Lambert to be with my family but the long trip would require a tanker truck full of gas.
Today I want to snow shoe at Sheep Mountain, maybe. And Sunday I want to talk someone into going cross country skiing.
Have good celibrations and dont get involved with to many growlers.
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:
Stay adventurous, my friends!
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.
Who knew a weekday could turn into an epic adventure? Yesterday was nothing short of magical. I wrapped up work, feeling that unique buzz that comes from a job well done, and headed straight to the mountains with Marcy. Our destination? The breathtaking Mount Sentinel, but with a twist – we took the Helgate Canyon Trail.
Now, let me set the scene. Imagine a world where the sky is a canvas of swirling snowflakes, each one dancing its own unique ballet against the backdrop of rugged mountain peaks. That was our stage, and boy, did we embrace it!
We embarked on our hike, each step a plunge into fresh, powdery snow. As the snowstorm intensified, so did our spirits. There’s something about being in the heart of nature’s fury that makes you feel alive, almost invincible. The trail, usually a familiar friend, transformed into a mystical path, guiding us through a winter wonderland.
Marcy, true to her adventurous spirit, led the way, her enthusiasm undimmed by the swirling snow. We trekked for four hours, losing track of time as we were enveloped by the serene, muffled quiet that only a snowstorm can bring. Every so often, we’d stop, catching snowflakes on our tongues and laughing at the absurdity of it all.
The summit, when we finally reached it, offered a view that was nothing short of surreal. The world below us was a sea of white, the storm cloaking the landscape in a ghostly shroud. Standing there, at the top, with snowflakes adorning our hair like nature’s own crown, we felt like we had stepped into a realm of pure magic.
Tomorrow holds the promise of more adventures. I plan to go sunrise hiking, hoping that the allure of nature’s beauty will overpower the siren call of my cozy bed at 7 AM. The day is packed with plans – lunch with a friend from Adventure Cycling and a visit to friends after work. Oh, and it’s payday, adding a sweet note to an already exciting day.
But for now, as I sit here, still buzzing from the day’s adventures, I can’t help but feel grateful for these midweek escapes. They’re reminders that adventure doesn’t wait for the weekend, and sometimes, the best moments are those that are unplanned and unexpected. Here’s to more snowy summits and impromptu adventures!
Resources to Enhance Your Day:
Snow is falling this late Monday morning. I was up at 7 AM taking my time slip to Workforce, going to the bank, and doing last minute laundry for this new week of work. My only unhappiness comes from the fact that we have Friday off. Damn, I want to work!
Imagine stepping outside on a frosty December morning, the world hushed and serene, only to discover your car has transformed into a canvas of chaos. That’s exactly what happened to me today, December 19, 2004. It’s a saga of vehicular vandalism that seems ripped from a slapstick comedy, yet there’s nothing funny about it.
Firstly, the audacity of parking! My car, tucked away in its usual spot, became the unfortunate victim of what I can only describe as a parking ploy. The culprit? The friend of my upstairs neighbor, who decided that my bumper was the perfect spot to park his car. Not just close, but actually on it, as if my car was suddenly part of a bizarre automotive sculpture.
But wait, there’s more. The real ‘piece de resistance’ of this absurdity was the vomit. Yes, you read that right. Someone had the gall to stroll up to my car and relieve their stomach contents on it. Now, with the cold setting in, I’m left with a frozen, unsightly mess that seems to mock me with its stubbornness.
Since my new neighbor moved in upstairs, it’s been one bizarre incident after another. My car’s front hood now sports a dented and scraped ‘makeover,’ a testament to the ongoing saga. Then there were the pizzas, a parade of unwanted deliveries turning my doorstep into a makeshift pizzeria.
What’s the lesson here? Sometimes, life throws you not just lemons but the whole lemonade stand. And while I’m navigating this sticky, frozen situation, I can’t help but wonder what’s next in this series of unfortunate events.
Share your thoughts: Have you ever dealt with a neighborly nightmare? How did you handle it? Let’s swap stories and maybe even a few tips on dealing with the less savory aspects of community living.
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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.
MARS Stout had their annual Christmas Party tonight. The problem is that the national championship was to air at the same time. The organizers of the party had a big screen (5ftx20ft) installed at the party and we all watched the Grizzlies in the championship game. The Griz lost but it was nice to watch the game.
Everyone got presents from the business. It was the traditional organizers plus a personalized gift. Mine was 50 dollars in gas coupons. I also received food certificates. That was very nice of them. Even though I work for Workforce, they still treat me like a part of their family. I like that.
With that in mind, my heart is heavy with decision. There is that job at Adventure Cycling Association that just came available. I have showed interest and intend to follow up on it. I feel very bad because I feel such a connection to my current job and how nice I have been treated.
A Morning Planned for Trails, Taken Over by Code
It’s always a thrill to wake up with the day’s plan etched in your mind. For me, this morning, December 17, 2004, was all about embracing the crisp, early hours for a refreshing hike on the Kim Williams to Sentinel via Hellgate Trail. The darkness at 6:30 AM was no deterrent; my hiking boots were ready, and the coffee was brewing, emitting an inviting aroma that only early risers know.
However, as I indulged in the morning brew, something shifted. My mind, often a playground of ideas, lured me into an unexpected territory – the world of internet coding. Before I knew it, I was deep into tweaking my site, immersed in lines of code, with the trail plans fading into the background.
10:02 AM: Breakfast and Reflections
Fast forward to 10:02 AM. The hiking plan is now a memory, replaced by a hearty breakfast of eggs, potatoes, and some delightful wild game sausage, courtesy of a colleague. The sausage is a hit, but the potatoes… let’s just say my attempt at homemade hash browns left me longing for McDonald’s version.
There’s a twinge of disappointment, sure. I had to trade the tranquility of the trails for the intensity of coding. But then, isn’t life about these unexpected turns?
A Career Opportunity Amidst the Morning’s Chaos
In the midst of this morning’s twist, there’s something else brewing – a potential career opportunity. It’s with Adventure Cycling, and the blogging community is buzzing about it. It seems like a dream job, but complications exist. My commitment to Mars Stout is one, and the fact that I’m yet to be seriously considered is another. It took an entire day of contemplation yesterday to decide whether to pursue this chance.
Conclusion
This morning was a blend of plans and spontaneity, of outdoor dreams and indoor realities. It’s about embracing the unplanned – be it a coding session over a hike or contemplating a career shift. Sometimes, the best plans are the ones we never make.
Resources for a Morning Like Mine:
Life sometimes throws us into a whirlwind where every decision, no matter how small, feels monumental. Picture this: you’re wrestling with whether to ride your bike or drive your car to work. The bike saves gas, but the physical toll and hunger pangs afterward are real. The car seems easier, but then there’s the cost of gas and the guilt of not exercising. It’s a daily dilemma that can wear you down.
Now, add the hunger factor. Imagine relying on a diet of hot dogs and Ramen noodles, and the intense cravings for real, wholesome food. The struggle is real. But then, a ray of hope shines through – support from friends and family. An internet friend helps pay your phone bill, a colleague brings you game meat, and grandma sends a little something to ease the burden. Small gestures, but they make a huge difference.
Here’s a reality check: your body is like your car, running on empty, needing more than just fuel – it needs maintenance. Your car is overdue for an oil change and your body is crying out for proper nutrition and exercise. It’s a tough balance to strike, especially when exercise means needing more food, which you’re already short on.
But amidst these challenges, there’s a silver lining. Gratitude. Gratitude for the family and friends who stand by you, even when you feel responsible for your own predicament. Their support is a reminder that no matter how tough things get, you’re not alone.
Yesterday was not the best of days. Thank god I have a job I like as it took me away from the starving and money problems. I did find myself struggling to think and concentrate at work. Food is so necessary but it is something I am without lately.
After work I knew my plans for the rest of the night. Go home, fix a Raman noodle dinner and go to bed. I felt tired and just overall bummed out. Don't get me wrong, I am happy to have a job and everything is great. Everything that is, except not having money. I am afraid that this job wont work out for me. Sure I may get full time in the future but for how much. I am not a greedy person but I do not want to starve any more. Then as I arrived home from work carrying my bike downstairs I got more confusing news.
It was my answering machine. Originally I thought it was grandma but it wasn't. It was the University of Montana wanting to know if I was still interested in the Web Coordinator Job. Of course I am, but now what do I do.
I have invested time and I really like working for Mars Stout. The University is a more lucrative job and one with a future but only if I can play politics well. At Mars Stout I don't have to play politics and that is what I like. But what about money. I cant live like this any longer. I am willing to do what it takes to keep a good job, but now starving seems bleak. Next week will be worse. What will I do.
So here I sit with a decision, go to the University Interview and show interest in that job or just hold out to see if things really do get better and secure at Mars Stout. I really like it there.
This morning, as Marcy and I watched the sun rise over Missoula, we enjoyed our weekly McDonald’s Big Breakfast—twas good, indeed! Thankfully, last night was peaceful, with no partying upstairs.
Today is grocery day, and I have a meager $15.00 to spend. I’ve carefully prepared my list and double-checked it, and now it’s time to pick up my friend at the airport.
This evening, Larry, the dogs, and I plan to hike Mount Dean Stone. Afterward, I’ll tackle my grocery shopping and hopefully we’ll have dinner tonight! I’ll do my best to pace myself and not run out of food before the week is over, or even the year for that matter.
Onward to full-time work, hopefully!
It’s almost bedtime, and I’m more than ready to hit the sack. Last night, my neighbor came home and partied until the early hours of the morning. They even ordered pizza and had it delivered to my place, knowing full well I couldn’t pay for it. Their behavior was just mean.
Last week at work was fantastic. I’ve been working on XSL and web development. The Christmas party is next Friday, and I’m looking forward to it. It coincides with the national championship game, which adds to the excitement. Speaking of which, the Grizzlies won today and secured their spot in the national championship in Chattanooga.
During halftime today, I hiked up Mount Sentinel and had an amazing time. The wind was incredibly strong. When I tried to watch the game through the 300mm zoom lens on my Canon, my eyes teared up from the wind before the play even ended.
Well, it’s time for me to head to bed. Tomorrow, I plan to hike up Mount Dean Stone and pick up a friend at the airport. Toodaloo!
This morning, I’m running late. It’s not because I was sick last night and took Excedrin and went to bed a little early. No, it’s not because I woke up at 5 am and started reading and implementing some XSLT code. Well… maybe it is.
Well, it’s time for work, and I can’t fret because I can’t wait to go. I love it, and today is free pizza day. You’ve got to love that.
Tonight is Family and Friends Online, and my Aunt Wanda will be stopping by for a guest appearance. It should be fun.
It’s snowing this morning, and there’s a light dusting of snow on the ground as I took Marcy for her morning walk. Last night’s trail run up Sentinel Gulch Trail with Marcy was fun, even though it was in the dark. There’s a bit of snow at the top of the saddle between the two sentinels, and Marcy had an encounter with a skunk on the downhill section of this route.
I really enjoyed my new job yesterday. The day flew by, and I didn’t want to stop and head home. That’s a sure sign that this job is a good fit for me. I can’t wait to go to work today because I have a new idea that will make styling the sheets faster and easier.
Today is a workday, but before I go, I need to find some money to pay my car payment. I’ve decided to use my credit card, which will push me deeper into debt. I really don’t want to lose the car. Next week, it’s fundraising to keep my phone. I’ve decided to let this site go, but don’t worry; I’ll ask my boss if I can host it on one of his servers. That is unless anyone wants to donate $7.00 a month to keep the site going.
Of course, everyone knows about XML and even XSL. I’m now delving into XSLT, Xpath, and XSL-FO, all of which are used for formatting XML data on a web page. It’s very cool, and I’ve even tried it out. This might not seem like a big deal, but the last time I checked, this stuff didn’t work. To make it work, you need Explorer 6 and the very latest Netscape. It’s cutting-edge, and I’m excited to be a developer working on this new tech.
Yep, again. Just got a job yesterday and accepted it. But, get this, about 20 minutes later, I got a call about a job opportunity at Edu Log here in Missoula. I told them I’d already accepted a part-time gig at Mars Stout. Then, they ring me back a second time, saying it’s a full-time position and they’re flexible with the interview schedule.
Again, I said sorry, but I’ve already taken another offer. And guess what? 20 minutes later, they’re on the phone again. This time, no talk of interviews, just straight up offered me $10 an hour to start. That made me stop and think.
Had to decide: do I grab this full-time job that’s offering a full $2 more per hour than the one I just said yes to? I turned it down! Why? Probably why I can’t sleep. It’s just wild, after all this struggle, to land a job and then get hit with a decision like this.
I feel like I’ll mesh with Mars Stout so well that it’ll grow into something Edu Log just can’t offer. Fingers crossed I’m making the right call.
Boneshakerbike 