Weekend Project

 A couple of years ago, I sold one of my bikes.  I promised the kid that I would use the money for a family project.  We settled on a halfpipe in the back yard.  Knowing that the project was not at the top of the priority list, we hid the money and waited for the right time. 

That time rolled around this weekend. 

 I am super proud for kid ( and I told him ).  He helped me out all weekend.  Even later Sunday afternoon, when we were both tired.  He was dragging, but he hung in there.   It was a great opportunity to teach him about good work ethic. 

Spending the weekend together gave us lots of time to talk about life stuff as well,  girlfriends, respect,  working hard,  being a neighbor etc.  Definitely a special time.

 Pizza and Coke for lunch is mandatory for hard workers! 

The rest of the pictures tell the story better than words. 

Enjoy!

Dropped

I have ridden my bike 2 times in the past 3 weeks, so I thought it might be  a good idea to start out with the A group.

I arrived at Liberty for the Thursday night road ride, and  chatted for a while.  We rolled out and hit the first climb,   several guys off the front and I was setting the pace up to the I-26 bridge.  Over the top and someone else took the lead.  We rolled down the hill and onto 191.

We had a group of about 12 now, and I was hoping to hang on for a while, but reality told me I would get dropped.  And I did.  I was pleased to hang on as long as I could.  While the overall pace was ok for me,  we hit one of the larger grunt climbs and I couldn't sustain. 

I held steady and kept spinning, keeping the group in sight.  I managed to catch up at the stop sign only to get dropped again minutes later.  And so it goes. 

But, I had a blast.  I realized that mixing it up like this was a lot of fun, and with the B group to scoop me up, decided that I would try to hang with the A's each week.  Maybe by the end of the summer, I'll be faster. 

The rest of the ride was pretty steady,  Kevin and I ended up mixing in with the B group, and doing a lot of the pulling.  The sun was setting and it was getting dark.  I bid the group farewell and headed up the parkway, tired, hurting but happy for the challenge ahead.

And looking forward to riding my bike consistently!

Cut, Split, Stack

Its that time of year again, when I sacrifice some ride time, in order to get the firewood we need for next winter.  Getting it cut, split and stacked is a huge job, but if I get it in there now, it cures all summer and we have heat next winter.  I have to plan ahead, but its cool because when its done, its done. 

The job must have some sort of health benefits too.  Fresh air, exercise etc.

As I was working I was thinking about what it takes to raise up a kid,  thinking about how to learn to be confident.   I didn't get my confidence until a lot later in life, when I actually had the guts to strike out and learn some things on my own.  To fight for my rights, to work for what I wanted in life. 

I realized that you have to let a kid be successful.  You can't nit-pic everything they do and show them what they did wrong.  You have to tell them what they are doing right.   There is definitely a time and place for correction and showing them their errors,  but that should be overshadowed by telling them what they are doing right,  what you like about them, that you are proud of them. 

I caved in to the family this winter and we got Netflix.  It was a cold long winter so, I caved.  And they ganged up on me. 

Catch your kids, (and peers, co workers, spouse etc for that matter) doing something good and praise them for it.  Make a habit of it and I guarantee that one day, they will turn around and return the favor.   There is no feeling like my 9yr old telling me that he is proud of me for something!!

Jason's Birthday Ride!

 I got the invite to join Jason Luque on his birthday ride, and even though I was wrecked from house remodeling, and I had not ridden in over two weeks, I could not turn down the invite.  37 plus miles of Pisgah with a bunch of cool peeps, on my single speed Siren.  Great idea.

I got to the Bracken Parking lot and only Wes Dickson was there.  I had woken up late.  Fortunately, our neighbor's dog was in the process of running away, and I was awakened by her yelling at the dog to "come here right now".  I assume it was a dog,  could have been a boyfriend. 

Anyway, I woke up late and got going.  Loaded up and out the door,  I was looking forward to the day, knowing it would hurt. 

About 15 people showed up, Chris Coney, Patrick Mc, Todd B, Jason, Adrienne and a whole slew of FLA PEEPS. 

We rode downhill to some pavement,  made some turns and eventually got on some gravel.  Past Kuykendal, uphill, then turned onto some FS road that took us to Butter.  (I'm not sure of all the road/trail names, and I'm not too worried about that...)

The Birthday Boy

 I was feeling good and enjoying the day,  chatting with friends old and new.  We rode up to the lower water fall and took some photos, then headed up the FS road past the upper falls and onto Daniel Ridge Trail.  Someone mentioned something about a hike a bike.... That was fun, then I started riding.  I got in behind Wes and Todd.  We made the right turn up to the ridge that takes a person to 225 b.   That's where I failed.  I failed to wait at the intersection for the person behind me.  And they went straight over the ridge and down towards the intersection of Farlow and Daniels Ridge.

After a few minutes, someone asked where Joe was.  Missing.  I rode back down to look for him knowing it was my fault.  I found him about half way down and sent him in the right direction.  Some hikers told me that someone else had ridden by and they described Patrick.  Dang it.  I rode all the way down to the intersection of Daniel's and Farlow, but did not see him.   I figured he knew his way around so headed back up to join the group.

I climbed up to the ridge again looking forward to hearing the laughter and chatter of the group.  All I heard was my heartbeat in my ears and the wind in the trees.  They were gone.  Dang it.

 The heat, although not that hot, was getting to me.  I was running low on liquids but calculated that I could make it to the Fish Hatchery if I rode conservatively.  Nothing else to do but ride. So I did, and I enjoyed it.  It was an awesome day, and an awesome route. I figured I would catch the group at the Hatchery,  and I did. 

 After a long rest, we got ready to head up the gravel road of never ending death.  Rich Dillen and his crew rode up and stalled our progress.  After a little bit of chiding and chatting, we all head up the road.  I was feeling the long miles, fatigue and warm temps.  The thing about this time of year is that there is no leaf cover.  We take the full rays of the sun, and in those little hollers, where the wind does not blow,  it can get quite steamy. 

I found a pace I could maintain and rolled with it.  The group spread out and regrouped at the Bracken Mtn trailhead.  It was good to know that I was not the only one hurting.  Several other people we feeling the pain. 

We bombed down, each as best as he/she could and finally crept into the parking lot.

Balloons and cupcakes to finish the ride.   I bid farewell and headed back home to see the family.

Awesome ride with cool friends.  Can't beat it!

Blue Bird Sky on an Early Spring Day

 Temps just above freezing.  Fingers feeling it.  Breathing heavy,  soaking in the cold clear mountain air.  Spring is springing in town but not up here in Pisgah..  The cold duff almost screams for some warm sunshine.  The seeds and buds wait in anticipation to break through last fall's leaf cover. 

The cold mountain stream rushes, feeding the roots that reach out.

The air is still and the sky clear and bright blue.  I had the woods to myself,  peaceful, quiet.  Climbing up and gliding down the trails.  Relax, breathe, think. Breathe, relax.

 Places to go, people to see,  but not right now,  one more trail,  one more climb,   just to stay a little longer.  Avoidance?  Perhaps,  more like making the most of the moment, where I am here and now.  Not allowing the experience to slip away without milking it.  This is what I came for,  no need to rush away. 

And then I was back in the lot, loading up and heading back to civilization......

Fun Weekend

 Another fun weekend came and went.  I headed out to Bent Creek on Saturday and climbed up to Bent Creek Gap for the first time in a long time.  I had changed out the 21 tooth rear cog to a 22, and it made a huge difference.  I can push the 21 but for a long ride it might do some damage. 

I ended up doing a "big" 16 mile loop around the lake, Explore Loop Ext, Sidehill, Hickory, Ingles F, back to the lot. 

I'm getting used to the feel of the big wheels and realized that for a long time, my body weight has been a hair too far forward on descents.   By leaning back a little more, the bike absorbs rocks and roots a lot better and I feel like I can let go a little more.  Always something to learn!

Last week I was slammed with getting bike clubs and ride up and rolling.  Definitely a busy time of year, a good change to all the logistics and planning I have been doing.  This is why I do this, to ride with kids! 

Now with a winter storm rolling in, it will be a few days until I ride again.   That is spring in the mountains!

Enjoy.

It begins, again

The Thursday night Liberty Road Ride started up again last night. 

We rolled out with an A and B group forming on the climb past Biltmore baptist.  I stayed back in the B group hoping for some smooth steady paceline action.   Several of the riders were a little rusty and needed some coaching but we managed to roll through several times.  I focused on staying smooth and not killing myself. 

The air was almost warm but with a strong wind, the temps felt pretty chilly.  Somehow, I had layered perfectly and was comfortable for the whole ride. 

I was wondering if the 1- 1.5 hr single speed  MTB rides had been doing anything for me.  While the legs quivered and  burned occasionally,  I felt surprisingly good. 

As I type this I'm not feeling as badly as I have in the past.  I guess I'll keep riding single speed MTB for a while! 

Towards the end of the ride, my SRAM front derailleur did something weird, jamming the chain and leaving me almost unable to shift into the big ring.  That was slightly frustrating, but that's the way it goes.  I'll be stopping by Liberty Bikes and letting them work on it.  I tried and it didn't work out for me. 

This year I have less aspirations other than ride my bike.  Let in the year when I am stronger, I'll probably try to hang with the A's periodically,  but will most likely be riding in the B group.   And if I'm not feeling that.... might drop off the back and spin around the countryside alone!   I burned myself out last year and don't want that to happen again!

Looking forward to next week. 

I Belong Here

" I belong here",  a phrase that has entered my mind quite a bit over the past couple of months.  It is a comforting thought.  It usually pops in my head under stressful situations. 

It started early winter when I was trail running at night.  Trying to overcome that fear, (which was a successful venture),  reminding myself that I was created to enjoy the creation around me.  Reminding me, that I was created to be who I am at that moment in time.  To fulfill my goals at that moment in time.  Fear of what others might think or other's fears should not hold me back. 

I belong here, when I'm feeling discouraged,
I belong here, when I'm feeling rejected
I belong here, when I'm not fast enough, cool enough, hip enough, cute enough...... enough is enough.

It is something I have struggled with since....well, since I can remember.  And I'm sure we all have and still do.  That fear of rejection, is what sometimes drives us. 

But,  what if we belonged here?  Our perspective would change and we would still be driven to our goals,  but fueled by passion, rather than fear. 

I belong here, and so do you!

Weekend Ridin'

 Friday I got out for a quick loop in Bent Creek,  almost warm but not quite.  Did I mention it is nice not to be following a training plan at this point in the year? 

Saturday I met with Pete who was taking some beginners for a loop in Bent Creek.  I love being with people who love introducing people to the love of mtn biking.  Lots of love! 

Fun times ripping it up, riding with a nurse, a banker, a family who recently moved here from France.....  good stuff.

Sunday, cold and rainy, but I didn't want to be couped up inside all day.  I grabbed the ss cx and headed out again, to Bent Creek.  It was cold, I was cold, then I was cold and wet.  As David Noletti said, it was still better than rollers.  I agree, but next time I probably just won't ride. 

This week is go time for Trips For Kids WNC,  4 different bike clubs starting up!  And meetings, and The Bicycle Thrift Shop.... and another major step in the renovation project. 

I'm gonna need a sabbatical,  how do I apply for one?

Cove Creek

 I finally had the opportunity to head out into the woods for an over nighter.  I headed out around 2pm.  With temps in the 60's and a forecast low in the 30's, I packed my heavier sleeping bag and decided to give my E-bivy a try.

My destination was Cove Creek campground where Pisgah Productions was holding the race formerly known as "The Most Horrible Thing Ever".

I headed south on the Parkway taking my time and enjoying the sunshine and fresh air.  I had been in a funk lately, and I needed a break.  I climbed up the pavement and turned onto Wash Creek rd. where the forest service gate was closed.  Stopping to chat with a guy on a cx bike who had just climbed up from N Mills River.  With the logging project going on, I was not sure if the road was open all the way through so I asked him.  He told me that it was closed to motor vehicles (obviously) but open to bike.  Well, I was on a bike so that worked out well.

 I stopped at N Mills River Campground to refill my water, but half of the campground was closed and the water was not working.  I found out the next day on the way back that there is a new spigot hidden farther back.  Good to know. 

I was pleased to find that the gate for Yellow Gap Rd/ FS1206 was also closed.  No motor vehicles.  I passed a couple of hikers and cyclists, but after a couple of miles, it was just me.  Hardly anything stirring, the warm sun heading towards the horizon,  the bare trees standing tall.  Creeks singing out, and the slight whisper of a breeze in the tree tops.

 About 2.5 hrs into the ride, I realized that this would be the longest ride I have done this year.  After only being back on the bike for just over a month, I started wondering if I had taken on too big of a challenge too soon.  I ate and drank, and kept pedaling.  Not really worried about getting there,  knowing that a slow steady pace would be the ticket.

I was thinking about taking South Mills River and heading up to Buckhorn Gap then down Clawhammer, but after realizing where I was physically, I started thinking about riding down Cove Creek trail instead.

I made my way to the end of 1206, down 276 then onto the gravel again.   When I got to the right turn at the road that would take me to Cove Creek Trailhead, it was gated with a big "Road Closed: Unsafe Travel"  sign.  Unsure about conditions, and not wanting to be bushwhacking through fallen trees late at night, I continued on winding around Looking Glass and down to the Fish Hatchery.

Darkness fell as I rolled down Davidson River Trail.  I was tired and happy to be near my destination.
I pedaled into camp to be greeted by Erinna and Eric.  It was around 7:30pm.  I changed, made some dinner and then spent the next hours until midnite, chatting around the fire and greeting racers as they came and went.  

I crawled into my sleeping bag and slept well.  Waking up occasionally to the sounds of a racer warming up by the fire,  gazing at the stars, slightly cold. 

I laid there, changed the time on my watch and got up, packed and rolling by 7:30am.   I decided to head back the exact way that I had come.  The first hour, I was miserable.  At one point, I had to stop, take my gloves off and rub them together,  my fingertips were hurting bad enough I was concerned about frost nip. 

I made it to 276 and ran into this guy,  training for a cross country ride.  It was one of those "right place, right time" meeting that had to be more than chance.  We chatted for a bit, and I rolled on,  smiling.

The rest of the ride was mostly uneventful,  never quite warming up,  but the sun was out so I was happy.  1 mile from home with one minor climb left,  although it felt major,  I bonked.  I had been eating lots, but it was around noon and my body wanted something more solid.  I quickly ate a granola bar, drank some water and made it up and over the hill. 

Turning into my neighborhood, felt great.

I greeted the family, took a shower, ate some food and hit the couch for a cat nap. 

Another trip in the bag!!

Training

I'm taking a different approach to training this year, at least for now,  and I'm loving it.  No intervals, no workouts.  The only goal is to go out and enjoy myself.  So far so good. 

In case you haven't heard:

Click here to enter for your chance to win a Cane Creek 110 headset and an Industry 9 wheelset of choice.


And

Click here to show your support for Trips For Kids WNC and fly our colors wherever you ride this year.


That's all I've got.  I need to go on an adventure so I have something interesting to write about! 

Have a great day.

Fun vs Fun

Last night the low temps were forecast in the mid 40's.   It was go time.  I've been cooped up inside for the winter and have not slept outside since last summer. 

I rallied some friends to go with me, but with the chance of rain in the early morning,  they wisely canceled.  So, it was left to me to get the job done.  In between taking the kid for a ride at Bent Creek and taking the family to the Lego movie,  I got my bike prepped and my gear packed.

I waited until after dinner to roll out, maximizing family time.  As the sun set, I headed up the road, and as darkness fell, I was on the Parkway heading towards a preplanned nook in Pisgah. 

As I rode, I enjoyed the warmth in the air and looked forward to what this year has to offer. 

Then I started having second thoughts.  I started going through the mental check list of why I was feeling the way I was.  Feeling like turning around and heading home.  Unable to figure it out, I compared laying out in the woods alone, by myself, all night,  to tucking my family in, kissing them goodnight, being there when they wake up,  getting the kid to school etc.   

After comparing the two, I realized that I don't enjoy both equally.  I then remembered that I am supposed to be having fun.  And I was having fun, but I knew that around 3am,  when I was wet and cold,  I would be having a whole lot less fun.   I realized that being with the family was going to be the most fun.

I turned my rig around without regret and slowly spun my way back home.  I figured that I should enjoy my time out there since I was there.

I got back home and explained to the family why I was back.  It made sense to them and although they didn't say it,  I think it made them feel really special.  

Blue Bling

 I finally did it.  I blinged out a bicycle.  I've never done this before for a couple of reasons.  Available funds being one, and I also just didn't see the need. 

But, when I decided to go single speed for a while, I decided to start putting blue bits on the bike and take it from there.  At some point I just let go and started searching for anything blue,  all the way down to the chainring bolts. 

And then I had saved enough money to purchase a set of I-9 wheels. 

 I feel guilty doing this all for myself,  I'll admit that.  I'm not accustomed to making my things look good and flashy. 

It has been a blast though.  And yesterday, while taking the virgin wheelset for a trial run,  I looked down at the bike and grinned, ear to ear. 

 Thanks Brendan at Siren Bicycles, Liberty Bikes, Shanna at Endless Bike Co, The Fellas at I-9, Eddie and WN Precision for the power, Dave Wood and Mark Smith. 

And of course my wife for being enthusiastic about the project.  I had her full support from day one,  that means a lot!

 I just need to get some blue skewers and a better fork and this piece of art will be ready to tackle Pisgah!!

See you out there.

Livin' The Dream

I use that phrase often, and I'm serious.  I'm not livn' the dream that I thought I would live, but once I let go of preconceived notions, woke up and smelled the coffee, and accepted where I am,  my life became a dream. 

On a large scale can't have what I want, went I want it, or go where I want to, when I want to. But with some careful planning and patience, I have gotten to go a lot of cool places and see a lot of cool things. 

Sometimes we have to readjust our dream 

I have more than one dream.  I have the dream I am living:  Awesome wife, cool kid, project house ( that is nearing completion, which is another dream altogether!),  bike rides, bike packing etc.  This is my here and now dream,  the dream I'm livin'. 

Then I have other dreams,  goals so to speak.  To travel, "Ride The Divide",  hike the Appalachian Trail,  take the family to visit Bonaire, where I spent 6 of my formative years.  Big dreams that might or might not happen, but I'm gonna keep hope that they will.  

When you ask what I'm doing and I respond, " Livin' the dream",  although my life is fill with the blood, sweat and tears of everyday living,  just know that I am indeed serious. 

I love the life I live!

Here's to "Livin' The Dream"!!  

Less Riding,

This weekend was amazing weather wise.  I didn't get to ride much, I opted to help a friend with his house remodel project and then spend time with the family.  I did get a short ride in on Sunday morning, though.  I'm not following a training program yet this year,  just trying to get some saddle time and build some strength. 

I managed to get my bikepacking bike built up and rolling, so whenever the whether is ready, I'm ready!!  

After dinner, we drove up the parkway and I took some cool photos of the family jumping off the guardrail. 

A little bit of cropping and these will look really cool.

And now back to the work week.

Happy Monday!

Back in the Saddle

I managed to squeeze in a long ride yesterday.  It was warm.  It felt great.  I wasn't sure what I would feel like after an hour, but I felt fine.

I ended up having to stop and pull off my arm and leg warmers.

It was good to see Jamie Pittman and Greg Leicester out and about.  I can't go anywhere in this town without seeing someone I know.... and I don't mind.  I like people!

This morning its pouring down rain,  so much for a morning ride.  I'm not even going to run in this.  Good old fashioned spring rain.

Probably won't ride again until Monday.  I have a busy weekend planned.

That's about it...

Don't Postpone Joy

I keep writing things, and then erasing them.  The stress of life muddling the thoughts in my head.  I try to sort them out,  the who, the why,  and how they affect me......

Its a weird week,  having to face several different situations at the same time.  I'm not sure why, but its happening.  And I can't stop it.

But that's fine.  A friend reminded me: " Don't Postpone Joy".  And while I am usually pretty good at that,  this reminder came at just the right time.

Its difficult to walk into a situation where you know you will be treated with a lack of respect.  But in these situations,  attitude really is everything.

I'll spend the time focusing on the joy in my life:  The wife and kid, the bicycle community and the individual that bring a positive spin to my days,  upcoming bikepacking trips,  "Mike rides",  remodel projects..... and so much more.

There are days that will be tough, with that dark cloud over our head,  but reminding ourselves that we have something to live for, will make all the difference.

I believe that we have to have bad days, to struggle,  these things make us stronger.

Try it today: Don't Postpone Joy!

No Fun Like Snow Fun! (photos)

 Well its snowing again in Asheville.  The school's snow make up day got cancelled.  Its windy and cold, not sure what we are going to do.  Here is a photo update from last week!

 

 

 

 

Hiking on the deserted Parkway

Milepost 386, the starting point of many adventures.

Old fence in the woods.

Sledding with the fam

Shredding

Obligatory topless snowboarding with the kid throwing snowballs at me. (its a family tradition)

We left the dog at home,  when we got back he had found a new friend...

The neighbor one upped everyone in the neighborhood

Stayed up til 1am building this.  Slept in it for an hour the following night,  until the call of my warm bed lured me in.  It was pretty cozy though!

Winter Water Park Fun

This weekend we headed over the mountains to Sevierville to hit up the Wilderness At The Smokies.  It is a whole hotel/water park package.  

We arrived late evening on Friday and decided to head to the room to relax before spending all day Saturday at the indoor park. 

Wave pool, hot tub, wave ride, water slides etc, kept is busy and occupied.

The highlight of the trip, which we only did once due to the long, slow moving line was a 4 person slide called Storm Chasers.  The 3 of us climbed into a 4 person inflatable and proceeded to "plummet 55 ft down a thrilling, dark tunnel ride before dropping through a zero gravity fall into a funnel where they experience several fast oscillations before splashing into a pool below".   Somehow, I ended up going backwards through the entire slide.  I couldn't see where we were headed or when the drop was coming up,  all I could see was the kid's face.  Sitting directly across from me, and looking terrified.

I must admit that this is the most scared, I have been on a thrill ride since I was about 8 or 9 years old. (or whenever my first ride was).  The 3 of us got out of the raft shaking from the adrenaline.

We decided not to give it another go due to the long line, and stuck to the other rides.  We were glad however that we waited until the last day to ride this one.   All the other slides were a bit tame in comparison!

Fun times with the fam!  Can't wait until the next adventure.

In the meantime, I hope we can make it through the week without a snow day.

Still Runnin'

So, after stating in my last post that my running days had come to a close,  things happened and that window of opportunity opened.  I wasn't sure about my fitness so I took a short easy run the day before to find out. I felt decent and close to where I was before the flu, so I started finalizing plans.

I dropped the kid off at school and drove out to make waterbottle/snack drops along the Mountains To Sea Trail.  I was excited and nervous while driving back home and changing into running clothes.

The temp was close to 30, where it stayed all day, and the skies were cloudy.  I would prefer it to be a little bit warmer, but these conditions were nothing to complain about. 

I started out at milepost 386 and headed north.  My first destination was the Folk Art Center.  I made it there,  roughly 5 miles in 1 hour.  I refilled my water bottle and headed south.  My next turn around point was the French Broad River Bridge.

After doing some research, I found that the distance on the trail from the Folk Art Center to the FBR Bridge is 13.3 miles.  Hence the out and back. 

I'm not too keen on out and backs, but this was the easiest way to accomplish this goal.

I've been wanting to run a trail marathon for a very long time, and was prepared to go for it this year, when the flu knocked me down.  It killed my momentum and my fitness. 

As I ran, I thought about second chances. 

Back to MP 386 and my first dropped, I swapped water bottles and grabbed the rice crispy treat.  Delicious. I continued running.  Not fast, but steady.  I'm told that's what wins the race.

At this point, I was not convinced that I would be able to go the distance. 

45 minutes later, I crossed Hwy 25 and came to another drop.  Water, Fritos and a couple sips of Coke, saving most of the bottle for the return trip.

I was feeling good, but still not sure.  Thinking positive thoughts, and reminding myself to keep forward motion, I ticked off the miles.   

Rhonda called and asked what I needed.  " A PB and J would be great".  She headed over and met me to make the hand-off.  Just what I needed.  Seeing her and having her support lifted my spirits. 

4 hours into the run, I reached the FBR Bridge and another drop.  At each drop, I left a special snack.  This one was a Jack Links Beef and Cheddar stick.   I only eat these when I'm doing an endurance event.  The thought of them makes me gag,  but when my fuel is being depleted, these are a go to snack. 

Turning around to head north, I started to realize that there was a good chance I was going to make it.  The body was past aching and now hurting with every step.  I was starting to run with bad form, hunching over and had to be aware: stand up straight,  short steps,  walk the steeper uphills....repeat.

Up and over I-26,  my head started to feel a little foggy.  I plodded along, thinking about pizza. I suddenly realized that I had missed my next drop.  I checked my water bottle.  Half full,  I figured I had enough to make it to the final drop.  I couldn't remember if I had water there or not, but I knew that the Coke was there. 

Finally back to Hwy 25, I estimated about an 1 or less.  I was hoping for a sub 5hr, but at this point, I changed that hope to a sub 6hr.   The Coke and Fritos hit the spot, and it turned out I had a full water bottle. 

I was in familiar territory now and was checking off the landmarks.  I called Rhonda and told her I would be finished in 10-20 mins. 

And then it was over.  26.6 miles in 5 hrs 47 mins. 

While my body is stiff and sore all over, it feels great to complete a goal that I have had for so long.  I'm very pleased with my time and how things turned out and currently have no desire to ever do this again.  But I'm sure as time goes by and the pain fades,  I'll be looking into another running adventure next year!! 

Shifting

Did you feel that?  That subtle tremor that shook the earth,  that sudden change,  that brighter outlook? 

I rode my bike and the world is a better place. 

With the rainy chilly weather, I'm staying inside on the rollers for now,  but I'm riding again. 

I had wanted to run a marathon distance on trails, but I "ran" out of time.  Maybe next year!

3 cheers for riding bikes!

Breakfast Bar Project

 I had not planned on doing this project so soon,  other projects are high on the list of things to get done, but when I stopped by Sunrise Sawmill to figure out pricing,  things snowballed.   I asked Don about materials for a breakfast bar and he had exactly what I needed and a deal I could not refuse. 

And so it began. 

First I tore out the wall between the living room and kitchen.  The idea for this project started 9.5 yrs ago when we bought the house.  I knew that if we could open up this wall, we would have one huge open room. 

 I got it cleaned out and got the stove moved back, providing more room in the little kitchen.  After that, we splurged, heading out to Blue Ridge Surplus to buy some cabinets.  The cabinets are oak, made in NC.  Pretty cool. 

 I built a half wall that would be the back of the breakfast bar.  On the kitchen side, I used the plywood from the ceiling in the old bike room.  It felt really good to be able to recycle that.  On the front I was not sure what to do.  I went to Home Depot to look at the 1x6 planks, but then headed back to the sawmill.  Again,  I found some really cool poplar 1 by's that would do exactly what I needed. 

 I cut them, sanded, coated them and then screwed them in place.  It was time for the support posts, which I also screwed/bolted into the wall.  This thing is going to be solid.  The post is 4x4 solid oak, that I got in a 12 foot length, also from Sunrise Sawmill.  I sanded all of the wood a little bit, but wanted to leave the rough cuts and marks from the saw. 

And around 8:30 pm, after about 40hrs of work, Project Breakfast Bar is complete:

I'm pretty proud of how it turned out.  With the different types of wood, it really softens up the room, and paired with the wood stove, really makes it feel more like a rustic cabin. 

Still Running

After working all day and going to a meeting, I got home at 5:30pm and laced up my running shoes.  It will soon be time to start riding but I'm just not ready yet.  And its still butt cold. 

The sun was low on the horizon and I took off up the pavement.  Dropping into the woods I was pleased to find that the snow on the trail was only mildly packed down and not an icy mess. 

My feet gently crunching on the snow, I focused on breathing deeply and relaxing. 

After about 10 minutes of running, I was comfortable.  Not too hot, not too cold.  This is something that I have enjoyed about running this winter. 

The sunlight faded and twilight moved in.  My legs and lungs were feeling good so I lengthened my distance.  Passing one other person with a  light and two bottles, I wondered how far he was going and thought it would be fun to join him.

A big black dog greeted me in the middle of the trail.  No humans on the trail,  he must belong to one of the nearby houses. 

The frozen trees above whispered in the wind and I made it to my turn around.  Heading back as darkness continued to fall, I didn't race it.  I stayed steady and allowed myself to be swallowed up by the absence of light. 

Back out onto the pavement and heading home, I soaked it all in.  Thankful to be heading home to warmth and dinner, and looking forward to temps in the 40's and 50' over the weekend!

Its good to be alive.

Recovery

Apparently, getting over the flu takes a while.  I've been up and  around since Thursday but running out of energy fast.  I had Mono in my twenties.  I'm not sure how much that affects me know but definitely could.

But I'm also restless,  so I started (continued) another project.  The kitchen is behind this wall.  Small, cramped and dark.  The wall is coming down, to be replaced with cabinets, counter space and a breakfast bar.  This is a project that I have been looking forward to for the last 9 yrs, since we moved in.  When  complete, the living room, kitchen, dining space will be one long open room,with vaulted ceilings to boot! 

Still on the search for the right electrician,  that is one thing I have no experience in and don't want to burn my house down! 

Hopefully this week, I'll get back out on the trail for a run.  Time is running out, and I'll need to start riding again.  Waiting for some parts to come in and then blam,  single track time!

Can't wait!

Flu Flew Phlue

yeah,  I got the flu.  It knocked me down hard.  But I'm on the mend.  I wanted to die.  Laying there on the cold floor,  half shivering, dreaming about 100's of knick knacks lined up around me and not daring to move lest I disorganized any of them..  then I woke up, only to lay there thinking about where to take my next bike packing trip.  I could almost feel the warmth of the sun on my back as I wound through a forest of green on the Palmetto Trail.....

And so it goes.  It didn't kill me so I must be stronger.  Back to life, answering phone calls and e-mails I didn't dare answer while I was sick.  Don't make commitments when you are not coherent!

It is 2 degrees as I write this, and I'm thinking about riding again, but not in these temps.  Can't run either,  not a good recovery.  Some roller time?  Maybe I'll do that this weekend.  

First on my list is to start getting tuned up for the Liberty Bikes Thursday night ride.  Daylight Saving Time is March 9th, so I'm sure the ride will start soon after that.  I don't want that to be my first ride of the year. 

The rest of the year is up in the air right now.  I'm waiting on the wife's work schedule,  who knows.

After a complete standstill, the house project continues slowly.  I'm currently looking for the right electrician to do some work for me,  if you know of one, send me some contact info.  I'm pretty picky about who comes into my house. 

Well,   off to pour another cup of coffee and stoke the fire.

Itch

Good news.   This weekend, I started to get that itch to start riding again.  I was in the middle of helping a friend lay hard wood flooring at his house and suddenly I felt like riding.  And camping.  Aaah, bikepacking.  Still  a little cold for that, but in time. 

Last night I started working on my fleet.  Replacing worn parts, setting up the single speed.   It felt good and I was getting more excited about the coming year. 

I'm looking forward to just riding, training, and enjoying my time on the bike.  I am not setting much in the way of goals, just planning on finishing the races/events that I start. 

I'm also looking forward to warmer temps.  We are only half way through January, and had a taste of warmth recently, but it was enough of a reminder of what the warm sun on the skin feels like......

6 more weeks or so, and spring will start to creep in!!

"Snow" Storm

Not really a snow storm, but definitely cole (10 degrees) and windy (60mph).   I'm really glad I dropped that $400 that we didn't have budgeted,  on additional insulation.  Its almost toasty in the house.

The wife worked last night, 7-11pm.  At 10:30pm I went outside to check the road and knew that there was  a good chance she would have trouble getting home in the mini van. 

The wet roads from earlier rain had frozen over, and the snow was landing on top of that.  She didn't have the chains in the van either. 

At 10:45 pm she called and asked me to come pick her up.  I already had the truck running and the chains on.  I rousted the kid out of a deep sleep.  Some friends had offered to come hang out so he could sleep, but I figured a family adventure would be fun. 

Driving to the hospital with the hum of the chains, I was convinced that it was a good idea on the first hill out of our neighborhood.   Then when we got to Biltmore Ave,  and the climb that leads up,  we saw 15 cars, scattered all over the road,  not able to make forward progress. 

The cold snow swirled outside,  lit up by yellow and red blinking hazard lights.   I eased onto the accelerator gently.  The F-150 with rear wheel drive pulled ahead and we carefully wove in and out of the stranded vehicles.  The chains dug into the snow and ice and we had no problem getting up the hill.

We picked up the wife and headed back home.  By the time we got back to the bottom the police had blocked the road.  We drove around the roadblock and headed back home.  My biggest concern was the hill that leads up into our neighborhood, but this proved to be a non issue.

Safe and sound back home, we all crashed into bed, tired from the mini adventure. 

New Year

Well,  here we are in 2014.  The start of this new year felt different for some reason.  I can't put my finger on it.  Maybe it's because I'm worn out.  The house remodel project is set to continue but we need to build some funds back up first.  The next step will need to wait for warmer weather as well. 

I'm still running and after completing a solo 25k in 3 hrs, last week at Carvin's Cove, I'm excited about another challenge coming up in the next month or so.  I can't tell you what it is,  every time I tell people what I plan to do, it doesn't happen. 

I do have some goals though.  This year, I want to run/hike the Art Loeb Trail. Maybe an out and back.  I could do that in 3-4 days.  On the cycling end of things,  Fletcher Flyer, P55/P111,  ORAMM?,  of course the Stage Race is on the list as well.  And I'd love to get on the TNGA!

For the first part of the year, I'm going back to my roots and setting up my Siren John Henry as a single speed.  I'm looking forward to the change of pace and riding style. 

Winter storm warning in effect to the west of us,  should be a great day for a run!