Category: Blog Posts

Ah, welcome to episode 20 of “Through My Lens: The 2009 Chronicles.” Today’s star, making its grand entrance into my cherished “Ice and Snow” portfolio, is none other than “Escape.” Captured on the brisk afternoon of December 27th, 2009, at precisely 2:15 PM, with my trusty (albeit on its last legs) Canon SD 1000.

So, there I was, a couple of days post-Christmas, feeling a tad bit like the last slice of fruitcake nobody wanted – a classic case of holiday blues. Try as I might, I couldn’t coax or guilt-trip anyone into joining me for a hearty trek into the great outdoors. Hence, armed with nothing but my camera and a stubborn resolve, I ventured solo onto the Sheep Mountain Trail. My journey led me to Blue Point, where I paused, contemplating the return trip, and that’s when “Escape” happened. With a swift click, I captured the serene beauty stretching from the Rattlesnake to Missoula Valleys.

Winter, with all its icy allure, truly shines in the mountains. The pièce de résistance? That moment when the sun begins its descent, casting a golden hue over the already stunning panorama. It’s Mother Nature’s gentle reminder that, despite the encroaching darkness, there’s an inherent tranquility, a peaceful calm, and, above all, an indescribable beauty.

Welcome back, fellow adventurers and photography enthusiasts, to installment numero 19 of what’s shaping up to be the never-ending saga of “Photos I Adore from 2009.” This time around, we’re diving into a snapshot taken on a crisp November 7th, 2009. Now, let’s be real – this photo won’t be winning any beauty contests. But hey, this series is all about the pics that stole my heart, not those that polished their way onto magazine covers. And considering this was snapped with the ol’ Apple iPhone, it’s not half bad, right?

This gem features my buddy Ed S. and yours truly, setting off for what would be one of our final treks with the gang around the scenic Nine Mile area that year.

In yesterday’s episode of “How Far Will I Go?”, I managed to clock a cool 82 miles cruising in zone 1, going full knobby tire mode. During the epic 5-hour saga, I kept the engines running on Carbo Rocket and Perpetium, making them my go-to snacks for those crucial pit stops. My journey took me over the majestic Lolo Pass and right into the heart of Idaho. It was the kind of ride that leaves you feeling refreshed, yet buzzing with energy – honestly, I could’ve kept pedaling, but duty called. Home was beckoning, along with the promise of a week filled with life’s little joys.

As I sit here now, tea in hand, it feels like the perfect moment to reflect. Let the reminiscing begin.

Welcome back, photography aficionados and cycling enthusiasts, to yet another chapter of my 2009 photo anthology! Today, we’re rolling out the red carpet for a snapshot that’s earned its stripes and a permanent spot in my “Cycling” photo collection—introducing “Clearing The Ridge.”

Snapped on the sunny afternoon of September 27th, 2009, precisely at 1:29 PM, this moment was captured through the lens of my trusty Canon PowerShot SD1000. Ah, the good ol’ point-and-shoot days!

“Clearing The Ridge” is more than just a photo; it’s a nod to the annual pilgrimage to Sheep Mountain—a journey that’s as scenic as it is fraught with the unexpected. It’s like Mother Nature’s own roller coaster, with twists and turns that can sometimes serve up a bit more adventure than you signed up for. Case in point: the year one of our fearless riders, Dave C., gracefully conquered Wishard Ridge, while the rest of us basked in the sunshine, lost in the breathtaking vistas.

On a slightly related note, I bumped into Ed S. just yesterday—yeah, the same Ed who had a bit too close an encounter with the mountain last time, leaving with a souvenir of smashed ribs. Glad to report, it was his first MTB ride of the year, and we took it as a chance to hone our skills, aiming for a “Sheep Mountain” expedition this year that’s notably less eventful in the injury department.

As for today’s agenda, I’m venturing up route 12, bracing myself for a splash or two (or maybe more) courtesy of the melting snow from the mountains. Who knows what picturesque scenes await?

Till next time, catch you on the higher trails!

Here we are, at episode 18 of my photographic homage to 2009’s visual feasts, dedicating today’s spotlight to a gem tucked away in my “Cycling” album: “South East Bitterroot Riding.” Captured on the idyllic afternoon of September 13th, 2009, at precisely 2:50 PM, with my trusty Canon PowerShot SD1000 (yeah, that little warrior of a point-and-shoot).

Now, I’ll be the first to admit the name of the photo sounds like my creativity took a little nap—essentially, it’s named for what it is, not what it evokes. Truth be told, it might not clinch any photography awards. Yet, it embodies the sprawling beauty Montana generously offers to anyone on two wheels. A real treasure, indeed.

On a related note, my brain’s been noodling over the Butte 100 and its burgeoning popularity. Some folks might fret over the swelling participant numbers, fearing overcrowded trails. However, I see a silver lining. The more of us that revel in Montana’s outdoor splendor, the stronger the message we send to those in charge: our trails are invaluable. Plus, a little birdie named Bob shared that the event’s proceeds are funneled right back into the trails we cherish and compete on. It’s like giving back to the very paths that give us so much joy.

So, see you at the starting line? Anything you need to make this happen, you’ve got my number. Let’s make it a reality.

This is part 17 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “Cycling” photo album is “Push“. I took this photo July 30th, 2009 at 7:39 PM with my Canon SD1000 point and shooter.

Connecting with friends, both the story behind this photo and last night have one thing in common, connecting with friends. Isn’t that the essence of living life to its full happiness? That great feeling when you first spot a friend that you haven’t seen in a while.

Last night I gathered with friends and made new ones. We gathered because of a movie playing at the Roxy called Race Across the Sky. The movie was Olympic coverage style and so that was not what made the night great. It was connecting with fiends. So this weekend make a effort to connect with friends and go mountain biking.

When I got back from the worlds last year I gathered with my friends from Plattsburgh New York. The little one “Willow” was about to take her first MTB journey. She rode in this cool seat that fits between the rider and the handle bars. It was pretty cool.

This shot was taken in the Rattlesnake when “Niko” and I left the group for a little outing on some side single track. We took on some gnarly stuff and I took this awesome photo that because my camera was broken blurred the image. So I went with it and burred it some more and made it high contrast black and white. The result I think kind of stand for the image or icon in my inner soul of the sport I love, mountain biking. Mountain biking, the reason friends gathered last night.

Welcome to the latest slice of my 2009 photo anthology, folks! We’re diving into part 16, where I shine a spotlight on another gem, affectionately dubbed “Master.” Picture this: it’s a sunny July 28th, 2009, at 11:30 AM, and yours truly is behind the lens of my trusty Canon EOS 10D, a beast of a camera that’s seen more action than a summer blockbuster.

This hulking mass of nature, the star of today’s post, stood as a beacon throughout our adventure in Canmore. Not only did it catch our eye, but it also captured the hearts of the locals, serving as a silent yet imposing guardian of the town. This rock wasn’t just a rock; it was the unsung hero, the master of ceremonies at the World Solo Championships, immortalized in my snaps, various videos, and even a 24 Sports documentary.

Fast forward to today, and the echoes of the championship are about to reverberate through Missoula. The town’s gearing up to welcome none other than Rebecca Rusch, the World Solo Champion herself, and Bob Waggoner, a fellow titleholder. They’re bringing the spirit of the WSC right to our doorstep! And if that wasn’t enough, tonight’s screening of “Race Across the Sky” promises to sprinkle a little stardust, with Reba basking in her well-earned fame and Bob armed with an arsenal of Butte 100 posters.

Now, let’s keep it real for a moment. Watching “Race Across the Sky” might light a fire under you, sparking dreams of conquering the Leadville 100. A word to the wise: pump the brakes on that thought. The odds are stacked against newcomers hoping to snag a spot. But fear not! The Butte 100 is your silver lining, offering a challenging yet rewarding alternative with its bounty of single track — a course that veterans whisper is a tougher nut to crack than Leadville.

For those itching to be part of the action, the movie night at the Roxy is the place to be. Snag your tickets at the pre-party hosted by Big Sky Bikes in their swanky new location. But hurry – word on the street is tickets are flying faster than a cyclist down a hill.

In essence, this chapter of my 2009 photo saga, peppered with the excitement of the World Solo Championships and the allure of mountain biking tales, serves as a reminder of the adventures and stories that lie waiting in the great outdoors. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of community, challenge, and the pursuit of passion. So, lace up your adventure boots, folks – there’s a whole world out there just waiting to be explored.

This is part 15 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009.

Could I use a little Peace today. Current events have me unable to sleep and I am contemplating giving up relationships, societal requirements, and my job to go to this place of Peace.

I was trying to get back to the lodge last July when the sickness I had required me to stop by the roadside to take a break from concentrating on the road and the consistent nausea. I found a little turn out and refuge. This scene made me feel better actually and I was able to continue shortly after taking this shot.

I took a mandatory break last night on my training ride out to Clinton. The one time I put a tube in my tire (to lazy to run Stans) I got a flat. Only 9 minutes down the road. Welcome back to tire/tube life again

This is part 14 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “Creeks Streams and Rivers” photo album is “Perfect Place is Being There“. I took this photo Jul 28, 2009 at 4:27 PM with my Canon EOS 10D.

Another photo taken after the 24 Solo worlds on my sightseeing day (http://goo.gl/oJa4). This place was truly magical. This is actually a rest stop just down the mountain from the Ptarmigan Cirque. Numerous hiking trails went from this place and when I return I want to hike them.

I remember this was where I realized that my day was over and that I must turn around and head back to the lodge. I really really wanted to stay but I was feeling weak and getting sicker by the moment.

There was this family playing Frisbee in the parking lot. I remember them well because they were so happy. Here in the states you see families on vacation and they are always bickering and arguing.

This is part 13 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “Meadows” photo album is “Alberta Meadow“. I took this photo Jul 28, 2009 at 2:45 PM with my trusty Canon PowerShot SD1000.

It is the same area as the last two days but believe me if I had time, health, and tripod at the time I shot these I could of spent the entire day just in this meadow. Some elements I like are the foreground silt laden creek and the moose and its little mooselett in the mud hole. And of course those majestic mountains. What a place to build a homestead.

So on this Monday if work is really getting to you just go visit this meadow.

This is part 12 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “Mountains” photo album is “Thrust“. I took this photo Jul 28, 2009 at 1:40 PM at the same time as yesterday’s photo. I know, posting the same photo twice is boring but it really isn’t the same photo. This one was shot with my  Canon EOS 10D because I wanted to get across that meadow to capture the mountain.

Another photo taken after the 24 Solo worlds on my sightseeing day. I really wish I could go back but not today. It is sunny here in Missoula and the skies are blue. There is no need to find a better place as this is it. I don’t know how I will utilize the day but I am sure I can come up with something.

Yesterday I did my 20 minutes threshold test up route 12 from Lolo. I warmed up and noticed that riding was effortless. i was really going to have a great time trial. About 30 minutes from Lolo I launched my effort.

I flew and I covered more ground then ever before. I swear I averaged 28 miles an hour uphill in full knobby tires. I cooled down and stopped to turn around at the 20 mile mark. I thought, “Wow! Nice! 40 miles in 2 hours, that’s cooking on this cross bike”. Then I turned to head back and it hit me.

Rarely does the wind blow from Lolo West. Yesterday decided to mix things up and fool anyone out on route 12. I passed a flag completely unfurled and whipping in the wind. I knew my return trip would be a slow one.

Then I met up with my friend Ross and he towed me back into town. Damn wind always humbles me. Better get used to it because the upper plateau at the Devils Slide is windy and the best effort through the wind will win the race.

This is part 10 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “Animals” photo album is “Canmore Elk“. I took this photo July 28th, 2009 at 11:43 AM some just down the street from where I was staying in Canmore Alberta. This one I took with my Canon EOS10D SLR.

I was so sick after the race because of a severe sinus infection that I was not feeling like doing anything but lay around. It took me until 11 to get out of bed but I knew that this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to get out and do some sightseeing which was not possible before the race.

The crew was gone and I forced myself to go out and take some photos so that when I did feel better I could enjoy the beauty I was surrounded by. I did a all afternoon jaunt that the helpful desk attendant and I conjured up. Looking back now as I sit here on the verge of the weekend I am enjoying and wishing for a road trip. That will come I suppose.

Oops, looks like I’ve time-traveled a bit—it’s actually part 9 of my photo homage series! Today, we’re diving into my “Culture” album to shine a spotlight on “Rural Canada.” This gem was captured on July 22, 2009, at 1:31 PM, somewhere in the scenic expanse stretching between the Canadian border and Calgary.

Granted, the photo’s not winning any awards for clarity (my trusty Canon SD1000 decided to get artsy with the edges), but there’s something about those tranquil blue and green stripes that just soothes the soul. It showcases the agricultural grace of Canada, a scene that’s just a tad different from its American cousins. Maybe it’s the way Canadian farms and silos manage to look like they’ve just stepped out of a painting, all neat and orderly, that caught my eye.

This photo is wrapped up in the warm fuzzies of nostalgia, as it was snapped on my way to the World 24 Hour Solo Championships with my pals Sten, Bob, and Rich. Picture this: me, behind the wheel, channeling my inner action hero to take a one-handed shot out the window. It’s moments like these—slightly reckless, but utterly memorable—that make for the best stories, don’t you think?

Ah, welcome to part 8 of my little blog odyssey, where I tip my hat to the crème de la crème of my 2009 photo collection. Today’s VIP entry, making its grand entrance into my “Abstract” album, is none other than “Water Color.” Captured on the morning of June 6, 2009, at 9:22 AM, in the scenic vicinity of Missoula, Montana, with my beloved Canon PowerShot SD1000 in hand.

Now, calling this masterpiece “abstract” might be stretching it a bit, but hey, that’s the kind of quirky decision one makes when categorizing photos at an ungodly hour. It’s like naming a cat “Dog” and insisting it’s a revolutionary concept. So, is it genuinely abstract, or am I just serving you a plate of hot air?

I still vividly recall the moment I snapped this picture. I was idly biding my time for my training buddy Zeph to show up for our grueling threshold intervals up Butler Creek Road. The weather was doing its best impression of a gloomy British day—cold, wet, and downright dreary. Yet, in my heart, I knew Zeph, the embodiment of hardcore, would brave the elements. Except, she didn’t. So, there I was, left to my own devices, getting intimately acquainted with sandy mud in a way I never thought possible.

Later, the plot twist unfolded—Zeph did turn up, but our wires got crossed. She ventured up Grant Creek Road, placing her on one mountain ridge, and me on another. You see, when I said “Snow Bowl,” apparently, that was her cue. Ah, the irony. Well, that’s life for you—full of missed connections and muddy adventures.

I know June may not be thought of as a spring month but here in Missoula it usually is. But that isn’t why I called it Spring Sun (I know my naming conventions are hokey). I called it Spring Sun because no mater how ominous the forecast or appearances of the day, spring is a constant ray of sunlight that turns everything into beauty. This is especially appropriate right now as it seems like spring out but we all know it is not.

Thinking of a short recovery hike tonight so if anyone is interested contact me.

Whoa, hold the phone! Let’s take a quick break from our regularly scheduled blogging extravaganza to dish out some fresh-off-the-press news. Yesterday’s cycling adventure turned out to be a rollercoaster ride in what felt like the heart of spring. So, the eagerly awaited “Best Photos of 2009” feature will just have to wait until tomorrow.

I embarked on my go-to Bitterroot escapade yesterday, clocking in a cool 75 miles on my trusty cross bike. As my knobbies serenaded the pavement, I ventured onto a medley of terrains – sandy dirt roads, gravel, and paths littered with rocks were just the appetizers. I managed to scope out three roads that had been haunting my dreams: Upper Woodchuck, Ambrose Creek Road, and the elusive Burnt Fork Roads.

The snapshot from Upper Woodchuck Road? A total letdown. Despite the epic dirt road climb that got me in the zone, a buzzkill sign declared everything beyond was private property. Just great, another slice of paradise gobbled up by some mega-corporation with more dollars than sense. Reluctantly, I turned back, dreams dashed by the harsh reality of land grabs.

Back in the day, you could waltz into forest service land from any which way. Now, it’s like Fort Knox, with private lands playing gatekeeper to what’s supposedly ours. It’s a real bummer.

Next stop, Ambrose Creek Road – a mixed bag, but in a strangely positive way. I’m betting that once summer sends winter packing, I’ll be able to venture further. For now, a snow blockade had other plans.

The third leg of my quest actually delivered. The Burnt Fork Roads – North, South, and Middle – were a feast for the eyes, with asphalt giving way to vistas that screamed ‘adventure this way’ towards forest service lands. Alas, Father Time and the setting sun had me on a tight leash, so “up the creek” remains a mystery… for now. But I’ll be back, you can bet on that.

I did the usual Bitterroot getaway yesterday and popped off a 75 mile ride on my cross bike. With knobbies humming up the pavement I soon found other surface types. Sandy dirt road, gravel, and dirt road strewn with rocks where just a few. I was able to investigate three roads that I had on my mind, Upper Woodchuck, Ambrose Creek Road, and the Burnt Fork Roads.

This is part 5 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “Mountains” photo album is “Montana“. I took this photo April 12th, 2009 at 6:28 AM just 28 minutes from yesterday’s photo. I was headed to Butte to see Bob and go riding and Montana welcomed me with beautiful mountain scenes. I like this photo because of the colors and the stark whiteness of the mountain tops that interrupt the color. I called it Montana because it is these scenes that brought me back home to Montana many years ago.

I got up this morning to hit the trails first thing before it warmed up. The sun was just starting to make an appearance when i went outside to check conditions. It was freaking warm and the birds were out chirping. I feared mud and slush.

I reached the trails up to Pattee (MoZ Trail) and found them bone dry. Coming back I ripped the downhill so hard South Sentinel was surprised to find its shorts down around its ankles. Embarrassed it shrug me off its slopes.

In the interior of Pattee and Crazy (what we call em) it was ice and real firm snow. Perfect conditions for screw tires. I had a blast and even climbed Sentinel to salute the city below for the second weekend in a row. I sit now at Green Hanger, doing laundry, and contemplating tomorrow’s 5 hour ride. Want to go? Call.

Montana from Wiki, “The western third of the state contains numerous mountain ranges; other ‘island’ ranges are found in the central third of the state, for a total of 77 named ranges of the Rocky Mountains. This geographical fact is reflected in the state’s name, derived from the Spanish word monta

This is part 4 in a series of blog posts that I am dedication to my favorite photos of 2009. Today’s inductee and now a resident in my “People” photo album is “Push“. I took this photo April 12th, 2009 at 6:01 AM as I was driving up from Idaho Falls and heading to Pipestone for a ride with some friends.

I had just spent the night at a rest stop just north of Idaho Falls. The day before that was Saturday and the Barking Spider Mountain Bike Race where I took top honors. Really it was the first road trip of the season and I can remember loving being all alone out on the road. I found it relaxing.

Last night was anything but relaxing and fun until I sat my cheeks down at the Bridge Pizza with a couple TNR buddies. What great tasting pizza at the ‘Bridge’. It was my last blood letting 3 week block of threshold intervals. I found last night stressful for the following reasons: 1) I was mentally and physically a little burned from all the training. 2) For some odd reason I cant raise my heart rate when I run. Full out on a flat surface I can barely get into zone three and maintain it. Its like zone 5 on the bike. 3) Trail conditions were the worst. Sixty five feet of slush had me doing the backstroke to the climb. Once on the climb ninety eight thousand feet of crusty post hole to face plant snow had to be overcome. It sucked.

Today more than most I really wish I were out on the road, pushing my shadow across the great plains.

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On this day in history:

2008: Cyclist v.s. Mother Nature – Oh, today’s the day for a beastly two-hour spin! Who’s up for the challenge?

2006: Geeze … Gotta Get Get Going – G5 – I guess you have to be there … in my mind. Too many coffees!

2006: Blackfoot Ride To Potomac – Hey there, friends! Bill checking in after a fantastic day that ended with me glued to the closing ceremonies of the Olympics.

2005: Lolo Peak Area Today – My friend Alden Wright and I have teamed up this weekend to snowshoe up a East ridge of Lolo Peak.

2004: JOB UPDATE – As you all know the government has canceled comanche. Sikorsky aircraft along with UTC has no clue what to do with us.

2003: Computer Funnies – At a recent computer expo (COMDEX), Bill Gates reportedly compared the computer industry with the auto industry.

2002: Me Fat – Today is blue. I am blue because my body fat reduction and/or weight are not where I want it to be. I seem to be gaining weight with muscle mass.

From the latest outdoor misadventures back to a time of personal reflections and career uncertainties, this list offers a chronological reverse journey through the captivating and varied experiences shared in blog form.