1st outside ride of the season

The warm weather tonight was a blessing. The wind only made the workout effect well, harder. What a nice turnout of friends for the first ride, I believe at least 11. Lots of strong riders and great smiles to be out on a nice warm night (66 deg F).

I tried to pull a Rotauch but it ended spectacularly. I jumped a few twigs on the trail then had to try the bigger stick. From experience, I wouldn't recommend this trick if the trail curves right after. I made the trick went off the trail, front tire sunk in the ground, I made a nice front flip (with the bike) and managed to avoid the trees (thumbs up). Luckily the sticks and soft ground broke my fall (I just wish that I would have had the video). I have been keeping my guardian angel busy this year with the skiing and now off road biking adventure (thanks for keeping me safe despite myself).

Biking out doors is really great! Oh by the way, the bike and I are doing fine.
Neil happy 40th!!

Had some computer problems toward the end of my vacation. Am back now and had a great time.

The weather was great this weekend and I was unable to enjoy it on the bike:( Armyman this weekend was very busy. Hope to get on the bike and ride this tuesday as my monday evening will be busy with water aerobics. I am behind on the miles as ironman is very soon upon us. On the plus side it was great that we broke into the 40's today.

HOT WATER

Now here's a guy having a great time. The temps in this pool were 109 deg F. It sure was nice after another awesome day of skiing. The hot springs really loosened up the muscles.

We are meeting some very nice friendly people on this trip. While at the springs we met a Forensic Engineer from Lake City Co. A makup artist for the movies from los alamos, some people from NY and some locals. All with very interesting stories. However most were transplants from Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan or some midwest area. Really enjoying the scenery and the people. Definitely a place to come back to.

On Top of the Divide

Made it up to the top of the divide and the view was inspiring. Really cool views looking at other peaks and being at the same top level. What is really cool is watching the young kids doing the blue and black runs without a worry. What a wonderful day.

Forgot to put on the sun screen today. Now if this were christmas, I could give rudolph a run for his money. I found out the tip of your nose is really sensitive. Ah the lessons one learns in life. It could be worse...this could be the last day of skiing...but it's not.

Had a great treat for supper. Stuffed Sopapilla's. In New Mexico a sopapilla is a type of indian bread that is lightly deepfried and stuffed with meat and topped with green or red chile. Well in Pagosa we found a resturant that serves just that meal (It's been years, 18) and man was it good. I will be getting some of that bread to eat on the drive back home when reality comes crashing in. Well now I really do have something fond to think of when I reminise about the great ski vacation of 08.

The skiing is great, and the runs are excitingly long. I should say that the legs are getting a good workout. Should come in handy when I can get the bike out on the road. Tomorrow will be a good time to visit the Hot Springs and let the hot mineral water do its magic. Having a great vacation.

Let it Snow

Most people went on spring break to warmer weather, not I. I went to Pagosa Springs, Colorado to get some serious skiing to end the ski season on a tremendous high note. Wolf Creek is a great hideaway for skiing. I was up to 11000 ft today on a run where the crowds were scarce (I saw 2 people on the run) and the snow is pretty much like Minnesota's right now. The spring skiing here is fresh snow on top of some snow melt (icy).

The accomodations are great. The kids (unfortunately) could not make this trip so the wife and I have a nice one bedroom condo with a jacuzzi (which was great after a hard day skiing) and are celebrating our 20 yr anniversary. Woo Hoo. Am having a great time and enjoying colorado. Today was snowy and cloudy. Hope to have some more pics for tomorrow or the next day. The open air and spectacular sites are definitely worth the trip. Still thinking about the bike, but consider this cross training (I'm still going downhill).

Can You Hear It?

I don't know if you heard it but I did. Did you hear that? Oh, there it is again...that sound. The Ice is finally cracking. Outdoor biking season for us fair weather folks is around the corner. However enjoy the snow and skiing while you can your days are numbered in that arena.

Just a friendly reminder on the right about the fun that's ahead in the end of April.

Hope you all enjoyed a great easter. My family sure did. Lots of family and good food, fellowship and fun. It is a day of rememberance and thanks for a hero (I'll keep all religious overtones brief, but it is pretty monuementous). I am still trying to figure out how a bunny got involved with eggs. What retailor came up with that. I think they must have been smoking one of Neil's pretzels. My son who wrote to the easter bunny asked him why he hid eggs. The bunny answered back..."it's easier then hiding the chicken" go figure.

Drove my bike route the other day (I'm a fair weather rider) just to see how much was open. Roads are starting to look good. Need some serious heat and heavy rain to wash the sand away. Here's to a great riding season (DBR King of the Down Hill lifts his diet coke and slams one in your honor....)

Fun and Fitness

What a fun weekend. I played armyman this weekend and all I can say is Team Army won. Monday and Wednesday's have taken on a whole new meaning in the way of exercise. I have been teaching water aerobics those evenings. I get a two hour workout in the pool (yes I practice what I preach), with workouts that get the hear pumping. If you never thought you could sweat while being in the water...well you can. I think I am the youngest one there but those in the classes are dedicated. For all you aspiring aging athletes out there...Never let age determine activity. My "adult students" have given me new appreciation and motivation for lifetime fitness. I encourage all to give it a try.

You can even start by joining a spinning class. I know there is one at the shop tonight. Have fun and stay healthy.