adventures of C & H

Untitled by holliemcg at Garmin Connect - Details

2010-08-30T13:11:00.000-07:00

Untitled by holliemcg at Garmin Connect - Details
click the link above here

Check this out, a big moto ride we did on Sunday...The pics and the map link say it all, great day!

So Psyched

2010-03-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce the new partnership between myself and NorthWave cycling shoes for the 2010-11 season. Northwave , makes the finest cycling shoes on the face of the earth...and I get to rock them on the road and in the dirt. I am so psyched! I will post up some picks of the new kicks ASAP.
there will be some more news about "new" sponsors coming soon. Velo Club Switchbacks, aka, Team Hybrid Energy Products will be forging a path to turn our road team into a cyclocross team as well. We look froward to building up an fun environment, with a bit of ass kicking!

getting punched in the gut can force you to reflect

2010-02-02T08:30:00.000-08:00

The most important thing in the world to me

Sunday 1/31/2010, a dear friend of mine was struck by a vehicle from behind while riding his bicycle and was killed. Jim, Jimmy, Rogers was that friend. I have known Jim for 25 years and owe him so much. Jim showed me many things about riding a bike. The way Jim sat "in" the bike always left me marveling; pure, powerful, steady and beautiful, that was Jim on a bike. How lucky was I as a jr. cyclist to get to ride around with Jim and be nurtured along. Jim also showed me how to be calm on a bike. whether it was getting really tough and your body was about to implode, or a car just threw trash on you as they passed...Jim remained calm. I cant believe Jim is not with us anymore. Jim is survived by His Father, Mother, Wife, Daughter and Son, what a loss for them. what pain...I hope that they will absorb this tragedy and go on to live strong, full and loving lives.
Since Sunday, I have been wrecked. Before I even knew it was Jim, I was beside myself, questioning the "why". Why do cars have no respect for others, why do we take this risk of riding on the roads, why do these things happen?
These questions have led me to a few conclusions. No matter what happens in life, you must pursue life. there is no point in living a life chasing your tail, going to work, to pay bills. Ride your bike, Learn Spanish, travel the world, go swing dancing, do everything you can. you only get one shot at this life, find love and cherish it.
Jim, thanks you for being you. I hope you are riding some silky ribbon of tarmac my friend. Thank you. Rest in Peace

Wrapped up!

2010-01-25T10:55:00.000-08:00

Foxy giving me a high 5...Why?

Series Winner Jersey

Because I won the overall series title for the Sacramento Cyclocross series. The Rock Lobsters carried me through! thanks for the props Foxy!

april moto trip!!!

2010-01-07T19:42:00.000-08:00

April moto trip is going to be sweet. we will call it my birthday ride! Myself, Hollie and our friend Sam Raymond are going to www.ovexpo.com in Amado, Arizona. we are going to ride our motos there and back...should be around 10 days. the plan is to stay off road as much as possible. 300-500miles a day, camping out and having a blast. going to the expo for 3 days and riding home
the bikes:
KTM 640 (chris)
Suzuki DRZ 400 (hollie)
KTM 690 (sam)

if anyone out there has any route suggestions let us know, we are just starting the plan phase!

Cheers

I went down in a blaze of...

2009-12-07T13:37:00.000-08:00

Chris the leader for a day, or 3 laps

This is a classic course and today did not dissapoint

Hollie rocked it today for 2nd

I did my best today, but it was not enough

Dave and I rode pegged all day chasing a 15-5 second gap the last 1/2 of the race

Looking for another gear?

Today was a bitter sweet day for me. This course suited me well. Bumpy power flats, sharp steep loose climbs, fast descent, sand...everything I could want. I just lacked 1%. that being said, Josh Snead absolutely smashed it today. I had to beat Josh to keep the lead in the series. He won, I got 3rd...I ended up 2nd over all. The Bay Area Super Prestige was not a goal of mine at the beginning of the season, but after the first race I started to gravitate towards it. Next year I will put it higher on my list of goals. Great series. Great competition.

Sacramento CX is so fun.

2009-11-23T09:30:00.000-08:00

Hollie ripping off the start line

Great start by Hollie, but the grassy course and mudder tires slowed her down a bit.

Rip Rip through the woods

Trying to shake Fergi. Unfortunately he had some bad luck and did not finish the race. Sorry bro, next time.

The "W"

this was a great course for me, power, power, power. The attack lasted a bit longer than I had anticipated, about 55min. but you have to react to the race. With the help of my team mate, Josh Snead, the attack stuck

I really found a rhythm

Power to the pedals!

4x4x4

2009-11-03T09:44:00.000-08:00

BASP#2 Photo by cxmagazine.com

4x4x4 it seems to be what is going on with me for the last few races. I have been 4th. every situation has been different, but the outcome has been the same. Strange. perhaps some 4 x 4min in zone 4 will help me get back up on the winning step of the Podium

surf city cx #2

surf city cx #3

Ouch!

2009-10-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

I am in the Pain Cave

I went racing down in San Mateo this weekend in Round #2 of the Bay Area Super Prestige cyclocross series. I thought was going to be a stellar day in which I would take the lead of the series...it turned out to be a rough go.
The course: It was my first time racing in this part of the park, and I loved the course. I thought it was very challenging...too much front tire pressure made even more so. You had to be super smooth and strong on this course. one bobble or a dab cost you dearly. I think it would take about a 1/4 of a lap to get things going after a mistake. My team rocked this race. Tactically we raced against Don Myrah. That guy is so strong it took 4 of us to butter him up enough to get Josh Snead off the front. Ideally I should have tried to slip in there between Don and the front of the race for the overall lead, but I was gassed, hanging on for dear life! I tried twice to go away from the front...the first time I felt good about it. I was accelerating hard out of every turn and I felt like I was doing some damage and getting a gap, but I washed out the front end and went down pretty good. The front of the race caught my while I was down and Josh smartly countered. From here Josh Maintained a 20 sec gap and Dave Wyandt drug me around following Don Myrah. Once Josh had the gap I tried to go again, If I finished in front of Don, I would have taken the lead. My last ditch effort did not work out and I blew up with 1.5 laps to go and limped in for 4th. I have not felt that Knackered in awhile!

another weekend of racing

2009-10-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

Livermore #4

this race has held on Saturday in this big ol park. Lots of grass and a little dirt. there was so much course tape I was getting dizzy. I rode strong and consistent with pressure on the pedals...rode in for the win pretty easily. I noticed when i wen to leave that my back was not happy...Sunday I raced at the Sacramento series on one of the coolest courses I have ever raced...second to Granogue. But I was feeling my back and my legs did not recover well from the day before

Props to the camera man...that is a sweet pic

There was some BMXin going on too with this course.

The Bmx portion of the course led to another problem for me...is sucked at it for the first lap...how could this be? I used to race BMX!!!!!
My hat is off to Jeremy Ferguson for getting the win. he was on the throttle from the gun. I was not as snappy and made a mistake here and there...considering how I was feeling, I will take the 2nd. Jeremy and I are now tied for the overall lead in the series.
good times. up next is the Lion of Fairfax and CCCX#3
shout out to Specialized for supporting the Sacramento Series and letting me test out some cool new 2010 optics...

Bay Area Super Prestige #1

2009-10-05T10:00:00.000-07:00

Leading with 2 to go

well I wish I was writing this race report telling you all about another win. But I ended up 2nd. It was a hard fought battle but i couldnt close the deal when it mattered. I guess I am going to have to sharpen my last lap attitude....I was glad to get around the course without too much problem. it was bumpy and sketch. My Rock Lobster has totally upped my game for sure.
Next week I will race a double. Reno and Sac.

good times

2009-09-28T11:53:00.000-07:00

Sacramento CX#1

After the race having a laugh with Jeremy

It was hot and fast

Lots of Grass and 2 sets of barriers.

The Win

Hollie missed out on this weekend of racing, I actually raced in Reno on Saturday and won there too. But Hollie has a foot injury right now and just letting things heal.

Cross has begun

2009-09-21T12:17:00.000-07:00

CCCX #1

Hollie and I are back at it. Loading up the bikes and driving off to cyclocross races on the weekend to race around in circles. Jumping over stuff, running up stairs, pedaling through the dust and mud, oh and going as fast as we can.
Hollie is coming "off the couch" that is just how she roles. No training, she just goes out and does it. It seems to work for her. She was 3rd at the Folsom Cycle Celebration race 2 weeks ago and 11th yesterday at CCCX#1, and she won all 4 of the Loma Rica Ranch races. I have been fairing ok, but I am having trouble remembering that I gave myself an unplanned 8 week break off the bike when I broke my face. All things considering...the results are okay. fitness is okay. things are coming along. I have won the last 2 Loma Rica Ranch races, I was 2nd to Jeremy Ferguson at the Folsom Cycle Celebration and I ended up 3rd at CCCX#1. Justin Robinson and Cody Kaiser were able to weather an hour of me and Josh Snead attacking the snot out of them...It stung a little bit to not have won that race. But I guess that is why there is next weekend!
we have just got this season started and there are a ton of races left...here we go

The Lobster Trap

2009-08-31T07:12:00.000-07:00

Me and Aaron Odell at the shop

I was in Santa Cruz this past weekend hanging out with my new team mates for the up coming cyclocross season. I got to pick up my new bikes and see the lab where they are created.

Thing 1 is completely built

Fast.

I went on two rides while in Santa Cruz...both on some very cool trails. I got to brake Thing 1 in very well and I got to test the bike out to. SHE RAILS!!!!!

Loma Rica Ranch Racing

2009-08-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

Hollie rolling the big wheels through the duff

Round 2 of the Loma Rica Ranch twilight MTB crit series. Great conditions for some racing. How can you beat a short course ripping through a farm with an evening breeze? There are two more of these events...and I hope everyone comes out. There is food, drink and music...plus the setting is to die for. Riding home in the dark after the race I say the coolest crescent moon right at dusk...check it out: www.lomaricaranch.com look under events for details.

I was trying to race at the front for as long as I could. Racing after an 8 week break is rough

...through the corn and pumpkins into the radish patch

Hollie absolutely loves this series. Local, fun we just need some more ladies to come out....come on ladies!!!

heading up to the barn

we need more me to come out too. There are some folks who have been asking for type of event, so here it is...come out and play.

Giving her!

Hell Bent

2009-07-11T09:16:00.000-07:00

I dont know if you can make that out...but its soaked in my blood and it says "hell bent"

I took a little tumble on my mountain bike wednesday night. I made the classic mistake of looking where I did not want to go. bounced off a tree and fell down into an old abandoned irrigation ditch

A bit of blood

so on my way down towards the ground during my fall, i caught my chin on the brush covered concrete ditch

Once I hit the ground I knew I had hurt myself. My chin was bleeding badly, my chin and jaw were not happy and my mouth was killing me. A quick primary self evaluation of myself, I realized my head and neck were okay, my arms worked and so did my legs. I was bleeding real bad, so it was time to shift into "get the hell out of there" mode.

So i got myself and my bike out of the ditch, back on to the trail I had just bailed off and hiked to a gravel road. Once on the road I got on the bike and rode to the closest pavement. I could only use one hand to ride because I was using the other to help stop the bleeding. When I finally got to the pavement, there was a sheriff sitting there. Cool! I asked him if I could use his cell phone
He said, " how about I call you an ambulance, I think your jaw is broken"
I just about shit myself when he said that. I told him I just needed to get a ride and if he could call my wife that would be awesome. He did, but Hollie was teaching and did not answer. As this was going down, I started to loose my vision and I felt like I was going to puke...so the "bus" was called.
long story short. I had to get my chin stitched up at the ER, since you could see the bone. I had to go to the dentist the next day because my mouth was full of broken molars. The molars exploded from the impact. (thank goodness I did not bite my tounge off) The dentist took a PANO xray, which showed I had a bunch of broken teeth and a broken jaw. They zinger is, the dentist cant help me out until the swelling in my jaw/mouth go down! I am redifining "Pain Management" this weekend!

49th Nevada City Classic

2009-06-22T15:20:00.000-07:00

Just another day at the office. Hanging on the start line with Lance

Lance telling me about the Giro...apparently its a great weight loss program

The bike race was a blast. Crowd, 30,000 strong was unbelievable. I was shocked how good my legs felt...just had some bad luck and got stuffed behind a crash...just did not have the strength to chase back on...next time. I am fired up to race bikes again. I dont think I will ever forget yesterday. I have raced with Lance several times...but there was something magical about yesterday

More Rock Lobster!

2009-06-09T08:48:00.001-07:00

Little bit of an "S" bend in the stays...cool

Check the drop outs...sick

Again, I dont even know what to say. These things are damn sexy! I cant wait to ride / race these things. Hell, I want to build 'em up and stare at them!

birthing of a rock lobster

2009-06-05T14:13:00.000-07:00

mmmmm

i dont even know what to say. look at this bike. Paul Sadoff master builder of the Rock Lobster is building 2 cross bikes for the up coming season. Check out the welds, the flared tubes...i cant wait to ride this thing!

R.I.P. Mr. Steve Larsen

2009-05-20T08:56:00.001-07:00

http://www.veloreview.com/obra3/2009/05/in-memoriam-steve-larsen.html/

I wish I was not posting this link today. Steve Larsen, cycling legend, occasional training partner , respected person and athlete passed away last night from a heart attack.
You will be missed. Mine and my wife's sympathy goes out to you family. 39 years young. Husband, father, fit as you could be, still tearing up anything he tried.
Cycling has lost a good one. I dont get it

hittin' you up

2009-05-07T08:38:00.001-07:00

I hate to do it, but I am going to hit everyone up for a little love. Hollie and I are doing a 50 mile fun raiser mountain bike event to raise money for the Big Brothers Big Sisters chapter here in town. We have are trying to raise a total of $500...if anyone is interested let me know. I will also put up the online donation link here once I find it

Thanks for reading

BTW, May is bike to work week

bumper swap

2009-04-25T11:51:00.001-07:00

goings on...

2009-04-19T10:08:00.001-07:00

That's a big feller

Weather seems to be changing here in Nevada City...Its making it a lot easier to get out side on the bikes...

We went for a little ride in the sun

Hollie getting ready for Cream Puff

I am thinking that july 12th will before we know it...come hell or high water, cold and wet or hot and dry weather...the cream puff is coming

7/12 we are in!

2009-03-28T20:31:00.000-07:00

We are going to take this, and go do this www.cascadecreampuff.com . Its going to be a blast

West Shore Backcountry ski tour

2009-02-18T18:00:00.000-08:00

Not a Bad View of Lake Tahoe...

Hollie and I got in the backcountry this morning up in Tahoe with our friends, Rick, Susan, Deb and Craig. Lots of new snow and one hell of a steep skin track up

Hollie on the split board

When we lived in Utah we used to do this quite a bit...but hollie snowshoed. Skinning is much faster! The heavy powder today affectionately known as "Sierra Cement" reminded us how much we love Utah

Almost to the top.

Hardly any wind today and temps in the 30's. Beautiful day

I love a good tour.

loving old man winter

2009-02-15T11:18:00.000-08:00

I think Udo was born to be a sled dog. He pulled so hard

since the weather was so awful yesterday we did not venture too high up the mountain. We did not need to go to far because the snow is soooo low.

Couldnt be happier

Hollie, fox and chris, udo breaking trail

In the trenches

Tons of snow. We had a great time snowshoeing yesterday. The only downer was the fact that I got the truck stuck and it took about an hour to recover the vehicle. I had nothing i needed. thankfully a passer by lent us a shovel. I could have used a wench and a tree saver for sure!

travel van

2009-02-13T14:43:00.000-08:00

I think if this vehicle had single rear wheel I would sell everything I own, except a bike and a camera and take off forever.

Little bit of motoing

2009-02-01T08:24:00.000-08:00

I wonder how that cart is going to get retrieved?

This cart is or was used for transporting goods across the south fork of the yuba down at jones bar...only it has been let go and is a bit a drift!

Hollie ripping up the fire road

Down by the river.

We are lucky in the fact that we can ride out our door on dirt and find good terrain to keep the skills sharp on the moto.

Believe it or not, but I won that sweet KLIM jacket in a drawing at www.klimusa.com

Low water

Unfortunately the water is kind of low right now, that pool behind us is pretty much at summer height and its February...I hate to say it, but bring on the rain and snow!

great day to skip work

2009-01-20T14:19:00.001-08:00

Attack!
Slaying the Skogsloppet

So yesterday I skipped work to go ski...nothing new, just that there was a great race to go do. The 15km Skogsloppet. The conditions were great. Cold snow, warm air 100 skier field and a great course. The Rossis were running yesterday and my legs felt pretty good, perhaps the fitness is coming. I ended up 5th...super stoked on that!

this guy is going to the world championships

2009-01-12T19:21:00.000-08:00

this guy is going to worlds

This blog post is an electronic high 5 to my man matt shriver. He was recently selected to represent the United States at the world championships of cyclocross.
I am here to let you know that you should go to his website: www.mattshriver.com
and help him get to worlds. The bummer about being selected is that he has to pay his own way. the good part is that he is selected and you can help him out
Go to his website. You can donate $$$$ or buy coffee that goes towards helping him go to worlds.

help a brother out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and if you cannot help out, send this post on to some of your friends

Thanks!

built but...

2009-01-11T07:20:00.000-08:00

Check out the brakes

ready to roll

One thing has made this build incomplete. I got the wrong crankset. I got SRAM RED bb30. I just need the standard outboard bearing crankset...so in the meantime I have got some good old 7700 DA cranks on ther.

yummy

2009-01-08T08:30:00.000-08:00

2009 Specialized Tarmac SL

Oh dang, Look what showed up at my house! I cant wait to build this sucker up!

Cold and Sunny

2009-01-05T07:07:00.000-08:00

Yes, its 11 degrees and I am sweeting like a pig!

There she is, Devils Peak. You can get views of this peak from about 300 degrees around. The avi danger is high near it, so the resort doesnt groom track out there much...but you can see it from just about everywhere!

The last two days of skiing have been great. Really cold, like starting out at 11 degrees and super sunny. I love it when the snow is so cold that is freezes to the trees. Typically when its sunny out the snow comes off quickly. The snow on the surface must have been super cold, because the crystals where standing straight up like razor blades. I think that is called surface hoars conditions, slow skiing unless you pick the right ski.

winter is here

2008-12-21T16:20:00.001-08:00

We ran into these two

Winter is here. There is a ton of snow, pretty low snow in fact. But yesterday was a beautiful day, cold and sunny. Hollie and I went up to Royal Gorge, www.royalgorge.com
After an 18 month break from skiing we hit the trails. IT WAS FANTASTIC. I quickly remembered how awesome our life is!
Off the couch I ski raced today. I did the 10km freestyle event at Pacos fun race. surprisingly I won my age group, MM2 and ended up 12th over all. good times.

In way over my head

2008-10-25T18:33:00.000-07:00

Saturday ride. Sam, "The Man" took me on an epic today...and I was in over my head for about 25 miles of it...big time. We did happen upon some awesome riding, weather and views.

This picture was the easy part and does not look as steep as it was in this photo. I got my ass kicked on this steep, first gear, minimal line, ass bouncing around. Loose, technical and unforgiving.

Yes, I was worked. I stalled about 3 times and dumped it twice. I cant believe how tired I was. Good news: I got through it and I think I am a better rider for it. I did a little damage to the bike today. The throttle cable is not working properly, the right fork leg is leaking oil and my headlights are going on and off when I clutch. weird. But the 640 handled everything (including me) and we got another high route done bfore the snow!
Now I am drinking beer and waiting for my soreness to begin!

Taking a longish lunch

2008-10-17T07:08:00.000-07:00

Wednesday afternoon, I met up with my bud Sam for lunch...and I never came back to work. We put in about 140 miles on the dirt bikes, and about 110 of those miles were off road. SICK.
The half way point...thats why the pic is half of me and half of the bike. We stopped here for a bit to take in this beautiful spot.
Sam checking out the Sierra Buttes and taking note of what an awesome camp spot we were parked in

Sam and the bikes at Jackson Meadows Res. Here we had to put some more clothes on, we had gained about 5000 ft elevation and the sun was on its way down

That ride was a blast. I am hoping to get out this weekend for something a little longer!

back yard spin

2008-10-13T21:45:00.000-07:00

Perfect weather. Fall is coming. It is making for some nice riding. That is Purdon Crossing in the background. The bridge crosses the south fork of the Yuba River.
The KTM 640 Adventure. I am having a lot of fun on this bike. I want to get in one High Route trip before the snow comes...I am thinking this weekend.
The South Fork is looking sad. We need rain and snow in a big way!

Mexico quickie

2008-09-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

MEXICO NIGHT LIFE

I dont know why there is a scowl on my face...maybe I missed my nap. But the turtle work must go on...nap or not! The turtle shifts would start around 8 pm and end as late as 4am

BIG 'OL GIRL

This old timer did her thing. Basically we would wait for turtles to come on shore and dig a nest. this could take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour. Once the nest was dug the turtle will lay eggs the size of ping pong balls...50 to 150 eggs per nest. The turtle then hides the nest and goes back to sea. We, then locate the nest and remove the eggs. Making note of the nest location, number of eggs and if any are broken and time. We then renest the eggs in a nursery. This insures safety from the poachers. 45 days later....

BABY TORTUGA~~~

Every night we would release about 200 of these suckers out to the ocean. The little buggers run down the beach towards the white of the waves. In this time they get oriented to their location and the females will return to this beach to nest! The babies have a sack that allows them 3 days of food and oxygen. This allows them to go deep and try to survive. only 1 in 500 make it to maturity.

HOLLIE AND NEGRA

Hollie waiting for a turtle to lay her eggs, hanging out with Negra. Negra was a stray dog who would meet us every night on the beach and guard us during our shift. Sweetest dog!

BEACH TIME

Well that is enough for now. We did get some day time beach too. KILLER.
I will post more about our trip later!

doing some lumber jackin'

2008-09-10T09:14:00.000-07:00

JACK OF ALL TRADES AND MASTER OF NONE

BIG 'OL SUGAR PINE

Ran the saw for 6 hours yesterday and this bugger is still not all bucked up. I got all teary eyed running th saw all day yesterday without my chain saw buddy...

CELL PHONE SCALE

Two Wheels and What nots

2008-09-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

ALMOST FINISHED

Since NO ONE gave me any feed back on the fork choice on my 29'er I had to go it alone. I can only deduce that no one reads my blog or no one cares about bikes...??? Well, that wont stop me. I put on a Rock Shock REBA and I am stoked. I got a sweet hook up on a new '08 fork with 80 mm of travel. I cant wait to ride it. What am I waiting for? Wheels. I have to wait until I get back from Mexico to get my wheels. The wheelset will be from WTB, Laser Disc Trail with some 2.1 Nano Raptor tires. Gonna be sweet. So what am I riding now? I am using most of my parts off my old 26" bike so I had to get creative.

THAT IS A ONE SPEEDER

I put the Paul moto lite rim brakes back on, dusted off a 1978 campy super record derailleur and made it into a chain tensioner...its now a single speed. I know, I have talked plenty of smack about the single speed sub class, but since this is all I can afford I figured I would build it up. Plus, how can you hate something you have never tried. I have been on 2 rides and I have to say riding the SS is kind of fun. dont tell. I am running a 32 x 17, which might not be the right gear. I am thinking 34 x 17 or 32 x 15...we will do some more riding and go from there.

I need to get this bike built!

2008-08-23T07:46:00.001-07:00

THE KULA DELUX 2-9

I Need to get this bike built up and I need some help. I pretty much know what I want to put on it in terms of parts but he fork is a tough one.
There is alot more to consider with the 29er geometry, we know that a standard offset fork will not be good...so what do I do. who out there has a 29er and what are you running?

AINT SHE PURRRRDY

So the build:
SRAM X0 all the way around with grip shift
King headset
WTB Laser disk 29er wheel set, w/ nano raptor tires
Formula Oro disk brakes
FSA 2x9 crank, 44x29
Jagwire der housing, ORANGE
Fizik poggio saddle, orange, in top pic
FSA Flat carbon bars
FSA 99 stem
Thompson elite w/ setback seat post.

I would like to run a Rock Shock fork, cuz i like the folks at SRAM, and all the mechanics at the shop I work at hate the rock shock(dont ask me why, all we ever repair are FOX)

But I am open to your advice. So hit me!

crushing downieville

2008-08-02T17:55:00.000-07:00

I dont know what happened, but these photos are all out of order. So story first:
Hollie and I headed up to Downieville this morning. There is all this hype about D-ville, I have never got it, but I am slow, so we went to check it out. Oh, we were the only people who DID NOT SHUTTLE. We rode to Sierra City to get on the trail, that adds 12 miles, and we actually rode up the trail all the way to packers saddle. Everyone else gets in a van and drives to packer. What is up with that? Oh right, its all down hill from packers. From Downieville to packers you gain 5000 ft elevation. Its awesome, its hard, its beautiful...its worth the ride. The other d-ville rule we broke, we rode hard tails. We were the only ones on hard tails, but we were blowing by these guys with 8" travel bikes with sooo much armor on they could have been at the nights of the round table.
What ever! It was still a ton of fun, here are some pics

Hollie coming up to Blue Point

Hard Tail Hollie, V-brakes too

And She Navigates!

Good Times!

And there they rest, all cleaned up, our KONA Kula Supremes. Sweet rigs! D-ville worthy.

Chris Climbing Climbing Climbing

Hollie Zoolander, Climbing

Rocking

Check out the Indian Paint Brush...Hollie did

Cool View.

its been hot and smokey

2008-07-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

FOXY IS LOSING IT

I think the smoke is getting to Foxy. She looks to be going a little crazy.

UDO IS JUST CHILLING

Udo is the same as always, he just wants to hang out and sit on mine or Hollies feet. He has this thing where he has to be touching one of us...so I thought i would give him a big old bear hug

AND SHE IS SPENT

After Foxy's little freak out session, she went to sleep.

EDWARDS CROSSING

So I went out for some exploration yesterday. It was too hot and there was too much smoke. I suffered like a dog. Anyway, I rode out to edwards crossing (over the Yuba river) and headed up the dirt rode to the town of North Bloomfield. This is part of the big ride I am going to do to truckee. I got dusted by about 100 enduro moto bikes yesterday, no love for mcgov

I went by this sign.

Checked out mans scars on the earth here

Ah, Mans scars...I started to ride a horse trail back in here and all of a sudden I realized I was not alone. I could hear a symphony of rattle snakes. I hate snakes...I hauled ass out of there back to the dirt road

Wreckage. There are decrepit buildings all over the place up here. I guess when the gold ran out so did the people. I went into the cemetery up in North Bloomfield and I was shocked by the number of children that died up there in the 1850's. I wonder if it had to do with all the mercury the miners used to pull the gold out of all the debris after blasting the hillsides with hydraulic cannons??
I rode back home after getting to N.Bloomfield. I was fried and I couldnt breathe very well because of the smoke. I was smoked!

Meet Stan

2008-07-02T20:36:00.000-07:00

STAN THE MAN

Meet Stan Sanderson. I have known Stan for 22 years now and he is responisble for getting me into bike racing. When I was 13, Stan used to make sure I did not get lost on group rides, that I did not bonk and that I treated the sport of cycling with respect. For the last 22 years Stan and I have ridden together quite a bit and I have enjoyed every ride. Stan is a super fan. He loves cycling and has a deep pool of this sports history. There is NO ego with the man and he has a magical way of diffusing many an odd moment. Stan is the man

Great Air Today

Because there was soo much smoke down in our part of the county this morning Stan and I car pooled up to Cisco, hoping some elevation would get us above the smoke. Not only were we treated with clear air, but great weather to boot.

Almost The Top

This is the old bridge on old Donner Pass. It is a great climb and a very popular loop by the local Truckee cyclists. We saw at least 30 cyclist this morning and 1-2 cars. I wonder if the cars felt out of place.

The View

Here is a look down towards the bridge and Donner Lake.

Happy Chris

Stan, thanks for getting and keeping me on the bike. It makes me really happy. You have talked me down so many times and kept me focused and passionate through out my racing days. Thanks. I owe you.

Smoke Screen

2008-06-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

LAST WEEK

this is the over look at Alpha Omega Mine, This week it is engulfed in flame. The Whole Yuba River Complex by the town of Washington is on fire. The Air is so bad I have not been riding since Monday. That sucks, because I have had 4 days off of work!

CHECK THE AIR

That is the view from my deck this morning. Its actually looking better than it has lately. My poor little goose looks to be hurting!

A Little Creepy

There is the potential fuel. Of course this is my neighbors property. They dont seem to care that their laziness could cost me dearly. Hollie and I have have worked hard over the years to greatly reduce the fuel around our 2 acres, but right up against our fence is dense fuel. STUPID!

FOXY ON GUARD

Foxy is alert as always keeping me informed on the status of the fires. She seems to have a keen sense of danger. Sunday afternoon when the dry lightning hit she was barking and running around about 4 minutes prior to the strikes. She knew it was coming...so I listen to her. Right now we are safe, but I am truly worried about our home and our county...I have considered loading up the camper with supplies, important stuff and putting it on the back of the truck just in case...what do you think?

RUBY

So Tuesday was our 7th anniversary so I got Hollie a Ruby...no not the gem, the bike! Its pretty sweet ride and quite light. Black and Pink...nice. We went out to Sushi in the Raw and had a great time sitting at the bar swapping drinks with Ru the sushi chef! Good time...here is to many more!

in la la land

2008-06-20T07:09:00.000-07:00

Cruising the Flumes

Today I went out for a little noodle on the mountain bike. I loaded up the camelback put on the IPOD and headed out to the pioneer trail. The shade along the flumes was sooooo nice. I was surprised to see bits and pieces of some auto wreckage. This flume is about 50 ft below east bound hwy 20. Someone wasnt paying attention. I can just hear them talking to the cops: "there was this big deer and it just jumped out in front of me..." Geezz at least clean up the mess!

More Shade

This flume trail takes you to a steep dirt / paved road that you have to climb to get up to the 5 mile house. It was nice to noodle along before grinding up the steep climb. I was all warmed up by the time i got to the Pioneer trail. I ran Into Matt Wittler and a friend of his out on the Pioneer trail. I guess I was really out of it with the IPOD on and the noodle in affect, Matt came up behind me and slapped my back before I ever knew he was there. Matt said, "dude, we have been chasing you and yelling your name for like 5 minutes!" I was chilling in the cruise mode!

Pioneer Trail

Up, Up, Up that is the story of the day, climbing up the pioneer trail. I love the trail.

BLISS!

ALPHA OMEGA

So this is pretty much were I turned around. The historical sight for the alpha and omega mine over look. Pretty cool day. I planned on going a bit further down into Bear Valley, but I had to get back so I could leave for Truckee. I went up to Truckee to watch the Tour de Nez crit. I saw so many old friends. I kind of missed it all.

Well, I have a bunch of work the next four days so the riding wont be as fun. Hollie is performing in a little dance. Last night was the first show, she performs again tonight and tomorrow. I will have to get a better report on it, but she wont let me go and she keeps saying that its dumb. DOUBT IT! She has been riding the scooter lately, but a new bike is in her future. I will post pics later!

Rolling around

2008-06-07T17:43:00.001-07:00

Is That the biggest bug you've ever seen?

That thing came out of nowhere at me today...I know that I was feeling a bit weird from the antibiotics but come on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So I tried to swat that sucker out of the sky. It did not even seem to move...

All that work just made me tired...
I got in quite a bit of riding today. When I left the house I was NOT feeling it. I got to the mail box and wanted to turn around. I was not tired, just no energy. I kept on riding into town and headed up the pioneer trail. I was just noodling along and I seemed to be struggling with the trail. I just had no flow. I kept heading up, like I said, I was not tired...just no mojo. I went up past Skillman camp ground and decided that 3 hours was enough UP so I turned around. Going down is the fun part right.

Going down is usually the fun part...only when things are flowing. I crashed on this drop off and got scorpioned by my bike. I broke the lock out leaver on my fork and cracked my handle bars. DAMN! Luckily it was still ridable. I kept on heading back towards town and arrived safely at the bike shop. Hollie was getting off work at 4, so I timed it to ride home together.

Hollie Zoolander

I think Hollie got some new shades...or perhaps those are the safety goggles she wears to feed the dogs!

Castle Peak in the bag

2008-06-05T17:03:00.000-07:00

Today was the perfect day for a hike. Not too hot, not too cold and great weather. Rick Reynolds and I left the Donner Summit Rest Area on foot and headed up the trail in the direction of Frog Lake. Frog Lake was our destination last friday, but this time we headed north west towards Castle Peak.

CLASS 5 Scramble

It was a pretty straight forward hike with the major challenge being keeping the trail as it dipped under snow fields...oh and the Class 5 scramble to the top of the peak. There was quite a bit of exposure but plenty of hand holds. When we went to down climb we found some chains set up for rappel...to bad we did not have any rope, that would have been way easier to get off!

The Summit Shot

The wind picked up on top and we had to get our coats out. We spent about 30 min. up top, had lunch and enjoyed the beautiful panoramic view of the Sierra Nevadas, Mt Lassen, Lake Tahoe, Donner on and on and on.

View From the Traverse

You would not believe all the good skiing there is still to be had down in there....Maybe next time we should bring the boards up and make some laps.

North East Facing Slopes

Wind Blown Window

More view...and I dont mean rick!!!

Proof of the Peak

There is a survey marker up on top...so I took a pic with my foot in it! Also, Hollie actually called my cell right when we summited and my phone worked. Too bad I was not near a grocery store, I could have helped her out!

FUN in the Sierras. Whats next? Just some riding. Scouting my silver route ride a bit more and then maybe next week hike from Sugar Bowl to Squaw Valley, about a 6 + hour houte route but there is beer and piazza at the end!

bloggity blog blog blog

2008-06-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

Bridgeport

Staples rocks! They replaced my camera without a receipt!!!! So, its back to snapping shots and throwing them up on the blog.
So, I took some picks on my ride today. It was a drug induced 2.5 hours...I am on some anti-biotics trying to get over this damn cold I have. I think I got it from reading Bart Gillispie's blog, that seems to be his topic as of late, being sick! So i got around my loop pretty well but now I am tired. Down to Bridgeport (pic above) That is one of if not the longest covered bridge around. That is the mighty south fork of the Yuba River below it. Supposedly Bridgeport was home to the worlds first long distance telephone line.?

RULES

Seems like there are a few rules here at the park. PANS AND HANDS> that is the only way I get my gold!

Wells Fargo

As I climbed out of Bridgeport I topped out of the river canyon at French Corral. I think this was the sight of the first Wells Fargo bank too. Why all these firsts? Well, this part of my ride used to be the route from Nevada that brought silver and gold to sacramento and later san fran.
The gold country is ripe with history. I am planning a mounting bike ride of 70 miles +/- to explore other parts of this route that are not paved. The next stretch will be out of Nevada City up to the ghost town of North Bloomfield and over to Jackson Meadow Res. to HWY 89.

After leaving French Corral today, I rode out Birchville road, accross HWY 49 to Tyler foote rd to Oak Tree back to 49 to the town of North San Juan. From there its roughly 20 miles back to the house...about 15 of those miles are climbinmg out of the Yuba River canyon. This ride is a pretty common ride around here. I love it, so I posted it.
For the bike people who read this, you may or may not be interested to know that I shortened my cranks to 172.5's. Why, I dont know, but it felt good today.
Tomorrow a hike from Donner Summit, to Frog Lakes, across the "apron" summit Castle Peak and down the PCT to Donner Summit. PICTURES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Cheers

news

2008-05-26T15:18:00.000-07:00

Its been awhile since I posted anything about our lives so here is a little snippet of what we have been up to. Sorry, no pics. my little camera broke!
The short version is that we have been riding, riding to work and the grocery store and working in the yard.
Its really great to be here right now. the weather is great, the trails are great and the riding has been a blast. Hollie and I rode for about 2+ hours on the Pioneer trail yesterday which was so much fun. The trail was in great shape. I even got Hollie to boost a little air on the way down. I asked her,"isnt it more fun when you are catching some air?" She said, "NO!" i think she liked it.
I have been riding when time allows on my old stomping grounds of Nevada County on my road bike too. It makes me feel really good to be riding again.

Hollie and I are both working at the local Bike shop too. Believe it or not we are the only ones who commute to work on bikes. Everyone else drives in with their bikes??? I dont get that. I guess its just more miles for us!

The yard. We have been slowly working in the yard. Ripping out scotch broom, killing poison oak, watering the trees, and trying to eliminate the red dirt / dust that surrounds us. Things are treating us well right now. Cant complain.

Thats it for now. I hope Staples will replace my camera......

Blown Away!

2008-05-20T17:11:00.001-07:00

I rode one of these today...I have never had such strong impressions of a big on one ride. Fit like a glove. Super light, super stiff, but more importantly...so responsive and stable. I want one. I would think after all the years I have been riding and all the bikes I have ridden , it would be hard to blow me away...well Cannondale did it with the Super Six

Nevada City

2008-04-10T09:49:00.001-07:00

Pics for Hollie

So ya, I am down in Nevada City with the dogs at our old house that never sold...good thing, because we are moving back in. LONG STORY and not one worth telling here. Its been quite a year. What does the future hold for Hollie, the pups and I back in Nevada City? Who knows. Better weather for sure, and more to do outside. I personally am looking forward to getting back into shape and going on my favorite rides here in the county.
I hope to be back down here 100% by May1st. I am putting a fresh coat or two of paint on the interior of the house, while Hollie is up north filling out here final days of work at the State Board of Health.
That is it

first things first

2008-03-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

NOT THE ROOF LINE OF MY HOUSE

Andy and I have been working on the enclosure for the pump house, a requirement for a 2 party well system. Since the well gushed sooooo much water Hollie and I are going to split it with the Sorters. No sense in us both shelling out 12K, lets split it.

ENCASED IN CEMENT

We also had to encase the well casing in a "substantial" amount of cement. I hope 240lbs of cement is substantial enough for Thurston County's vague description. It sure sealed up the casing a heck of a lot better than the bedonite (sp?)clay chips the well guys dumped down the hole! If you look at the front left corner of the cement you will see that Foxy was kind enough to lend her paw for the branding of the well head.

SHOT FROM THE AUGER

One more piece of tin, and the roof is done. well, it is done know and we have moved down to the mill to mill up some siding. We are using Cedar and will use the "board and batten" style siding. Old school miner look in my opinion...i like it.

PRESIDENTIAL

No, UDO is not running for president, but whom ever wins this position in the upcoming election will surely have something in common with UDO:
he / she will be a dog. How did we end up here as a country?

What else is going on? Not much. I think I am approaching burn out again here on the "project" I am only good for about 30 straight days and then I crumble. Time to head out for a little road trip. Plus, I am totally afraid to go any further on our house build. Stubbing the water, power and septic is freaking me out...what if I lay it wrong? I will end up with a bunch off pipes in the middle of a room! STRESSFULLLLLLLL!

pump house

2008-03-02T08:45:00.000-08:00

Quick update: here is the start of our pump house enclosure.

new fencing up around the bugger shack garden...horse radish has been planted
Udo on the job
Foxy sacked out after a long day of keeping guard over me and hunting brush pickers...that is a whole different story!

I will post more later

typical day at the office

2008-02-19T19:53:00.000-08:00

IN THE OFFICE

No, its not a picture from a port a potty with an escape hatch! Its the cab of a John Deere 120 Excavator. This machine is AWESOME. Doctor evil has got nothing on me when I am sitting in that chair! I bet since I started this project I have logged 100 hours in that sucker. I guess I am experienced now! Seriously, I get better everyday at operating that machine...it is an art that you can see in the final product and how quickly the job gets done. My work is starting to look good, but I am not fast by any means.

The Dynamic Duo

There they are, the 2 wonderful bits of equipment making my life possible right now. That little 5 yard dump truck is great too, it has saved countless hours and because its only single axle I dont need a special license.
I thought I would post a snippet of what I do all day.

the sun came out!

2008-02-18T18:46:00.000-08:00

So the sun came out and it was kind of warm...like high 40's. I got a good window to get some site prep done:
The Garage / Apartment site

That transit level is pretty cool item. It assists you in grading a flat piece of ground. If you look, I removed a lot of material, I never thought I was going to get the slope out of the site. Andy helped me out a ton today and i think we pretty much get it done.

View from the transit level

SUNRISE

Those little peaks are some southern foothills to Mt. Rainier...pretty cool shot

Mt. Rainier

Crazy looking mass on the skyline...14,410ft, just shoots right up out of the ground. Hollie and I were going to drive up to Paradise, a lodge at Mt. Rainier the other day, but we found out that the road was closed due to avalanche, then we found out that no dogs are allowed! Crazy, the world has gone dog hater on me.

JESUS(thats heysus)

So instead we did a little prep on the garden with the Sorters. If the morning frost ever quits we are going to have some killer veggies!

WORKIN' IT

Hollie put her back into it. The soil is in limbo right now, so its a bit of work to get it ready. But we will be ready. I think Heather started some seedlings indoors today to transfer once the frost is gone.
Not much else going on here. Working on the house project, hoping the other house sells, trying to stay dry and sane.

boat race?

2008-02-16T15:07:00.001-08:00

Down at the waters edge...or Ports edge

Hollie and I went down to the Sound this morning to see a sail boat race. We were ready to see all the colors and sails and enjoy the beautiful weather. When we got down there we noticed something was missing, namely the sali boats!

We had fun anyway.

I guess we missed that start and it was a big loop, so we missed all the action!

Hollie thought she saw a boat...PSYCHE!

Up the warf to the capitol

The weather is supposed to be nicer for the next couple days so we are thinking about doing some hiking...we found out that no dogs are allowed in National Parks, well on the trails. What? No Dogs? What is next, no rubber soled shoes? Geez! we pick up the poop and dont let the dogs harass the wildlife!

jonesin'

2008-02-07T21:48:00.000-08:00

OPPORTUNITY?

AN UNTRAVELED ROAD CAN SOMETIMES LEAD YOU TO UNEXPECTED PLACES.......

I THINK ITS TIME TO GET THE CAMPER LOADED UP AND HIT THE ROAD.....WE ARE JONESIN' FOR SOME ADVENTURE!

ocean city snow

2008-01-27T20:00:00.000-08:00

Interesting work day friday. I dont know the umber of continuous days I have been working, but I think it hit me on Friday that it had been too many. Things were not flowing for me and I was struggling to make good progress. I said to Andy, "man we should go camping, just load up and go." We both agreed that it would be nice and went back to work. I continued to day dream about some great adventure for the better part of the day. Later that day about 2 pm Heather and the kids came around on their walk to visit with their dad and Andy asked, "Do you guys want to g o to Ocean City?" The reply was a resounding yes from all parties. I dropped my shovel and exited the trench and called Hollie to inform her of the new plans. And that was that. I spent the rest of the day getting ready for departure........
Hadden testing the water proofness of his boots

HARMONY flashing a goofy smile

The Vanagon and whatever you call our setup
oh, it snowed

The weather spaced itself out perfectly for us to have a fire and hang out

And to run around on the beach. Poor foxy had to stay on leash, she is injured.
Its a bit strange too that you can drive your car on the beach at high speeds...knuckleheads abound!

The Galley in the vanagon was in full flight

Of course....

That is one nice setup those Sorters have

Everyone took there turn wearing the vacation glasses

washed up

UDO was bouncing off the walls off leash until the cars started coming. He is feeling much better and putting weight back on. I am stoked about that.

Proof the weather was god enough for a bon fire. Hadden prefers to slowly tan his marsh mellows, while Harmony goes for the quick burn method. Both techniques yielded killer smores.

It was a quick trip, and great to get away. It was just what we needed and really got my fire lit to get back out on the road again. I think Hollie and I will be hitting the road again this year for a long one....stay tuned.

pictures of progress

2008-01-22T17:15:00.000-08:00

Okay, here are some of the new developments on our little project up here. The ditch. 2920' long, just about 10 football fields in length, its 3'+ wide and 3'+ deep, and its bedded with washed sand. That was a lot of work. Even with all the big equipment we have access to here, I used my John Deere 2210, a shovel and a rake for 75% of the work. The initial hole was dug with the Excavator, an amazing machine and fun to operate, but it doesnt leave a very clean hole...hence the shovel! So, the ditch is done and the 15000 volt cable and 2 transformers are in place. $22,000.00. WOW, the thing I dont get is we did all the work!!!????
So what else is going to go in that big utility ditch? Cable? NOPE! we called about putting in cable, even though there is no service out here and Comcast wanted $43,000.00 to drop their cable in the ground, plus the cable would have to be boosted every 400'. Scratch that. Phone? Nope! Qwest wants us to trench an additional 1000' all the way to 101st ave to tie into the main phone cable. their fee is much smaller, but there is now way we can go another 1000'. so it looks like we will be crossing our fingers for new technology.
Here is what we are thinking:
Dish for the television and internet. We currently use Wild Blue for SAT internet and it is less than stellar. Download is alright, but upload is turtle pace. this is where the rub is. VONAGE has a wireless VOIP phone, but our upload at this moment wont support the phones min. upload speed. So, we will have to rely on cell phones as our primary communications and its not great coverage either. So come on technology! if anyone has any ideas about our communication crunch let me know!
Below are some pics of our progress:

hollie chucking big rocks out of the ditch

andy on the backhoe

15000 volts.

brrrr......its cold

watering hole

end transformer

hadden pitchin' in

back filling the turn to the Remote temp power

voltage artery

we are well on our way.

Random post

2008-01-07T20:21:00.000-08:00

ME AND MY FOX

I really just wanted to post this picture so that Matt Shriver could see how sweet foxy is. For some reason, Foxy wanted to eat Matt alive when he was out here. Sweet girl! Udo, my boy is not doing so well right now. He has lost a lot of weight and the vets are scratching their heads. I hope this blood test reveals something useful that we just had! Udo is 51lbs right now. He is usually 70lbs. all this weight loss happened since the 14th of December. SAD!

2008

Well, we brought in the 2008 with some .30-.06 's and some gasoline! Our new neighbors put on quit a show. The xmas tree goes out in this show too. Lee and Christeen, and their 2 children are really nice folks and I thank them for having us over for the show. We had a good time out there! Tradition? you bet, they do it every year.

I CANT BELIEVE MY EYES!

yup, that is a building permit. I finally got one. I dont even know what to do now! Well, I kind of do. First thing is to button up the utility trench and get the power and phone buried. Then hope for 24 dry hours to put in the foundation. Then Septic tank, then frame the walls, second floor joists, frame more walls, ceiling joists, roof stuff, electrical, plumbing, finishing, move in.
how does that sound. I am shooting for April.

C&H

That is Hollie and I at lake Tapps doing our usual xmas day stuff. Its nice, hang out with a big family and do nothing all day. perhaps drive some golf balls off the dock in to the lake, but not much more.!
Well, that is about it for now. I will try to get some trench pics up. If you have been following this blog then you know I have a previous trench post...well, this one is going to make the first trench look silly. thats right silly. 2917ft silly, 3+' x 3+' silly.

Kansas City cold and pretty

2007-12-22T22:16:00.000-08:00

When frozen mud thaws, it gets muddy

The conditions were constantly changing all day everyday. Frozen ruts to greasy mud to frozen ruts. Saturday it even decided to snow all day and get windy. Blustery! Good thing Jim Brown was a coast guard guy, tough as nails when it comes to weather. Anyway, the kids seemed to go about things normally and test tires and lines. They all seemed to prepare quite well and raced their rears off. The RAD Army that went out to Kansas brought home a stack of medals and a couple stars and bars jerseys. Cool.

Coach Chris gluing on some KILLER Challenge Grifos up

Those Grifos were the tire. Watching Benny rail those meats around the slopfest course was quite impressive...I am pretty sure that is what Andrea Caseblot was on too! Well, for me the season is over. I learned a lot about these kids, myself too and came out of the season inspired. Not only inspired but my bowling improved a ton as well. So for now I will stay glued to the internet waiting for results from Belgium, willing the success' those kids deserve.

Thurston County, Washington. Sucking since 1852

2007-12-11T18:52:00.000-08:00

I would like to say that the Thurston County Development Services, Plans Examiners suck. What a bunch of turds. I would bet a lot of money the guy I am dealing with got his ass kicked on a daily basis before he entered the county bubble of protection. This guy is basically refusing to permit my building plans. why? "because" well thats helpful. Today I almost came unglued. I came in with the extra requirements he handed me at my last attempt...more engineering and details. (the plans are a canned plan that have been built numerous times and rubber stamped by this county!!!) Now all of a sudden this uneducated guy is over ruling structural engineers???
Anyway, i come in with what he asked for and he starts grumbling at me about where is this and where is that...and I say, I dont know, I just picked up the plans and handed them to you.
he replies: You have had way more time to look at this than I have!
I reply: You are the first to look at it, whats missing?
He: grumble grumble grumble, the stairs are not engineered.
I: Whats this letter from the engineer for," All revisions to this project have been reviewed and I certify with my stamp."
HE: Thats not good enough!
I: Why are you being so difficult?
He: I am not going to break state law for you!
I: Who asked you to break state law, I just am asking whats the problem with the engineered stairs?
He: Let me call the engineers...get this straightened out
I: Dont do anything outside the realm of your job!
He: What?
I: Hey pal, if you are going to give it, be prepared to get it right back. I dont need you to talk down to me or be combative and I sure as shit dont need you putting words in my mouth. If I had plans of non compliance I would not be in this god damn office applying for a permit. So what is it that you need for this project to be permitted?
He: Grumble grumble grumble.
I grabbed my plans and went to the front desk and asked for the head examiner. The gave me a card. Here is what the back says:

The Building Plan Review Section serves the public interest and fosters the general welfare of the people of Thurston County by promoting the safety of the built environment. We achieve this by:
PERFORMING competent, timely building plan review
Providing an educational resource for our customers in the building community and
Improving the quality and efficiency of our services.

WOW, I think they should evaluate that! "We Promise to be Condescending, Combative and guarantee to waste countless hours of your time to fill up our eight hour day." sounds more like it!

SHOOT ME NOW!

whats new???

2007-12-06T14:24:00.000-08:00

FISHER TAKING A CLEAN ONE FROM ME

We just wrapped up the USGP of Cyclocross this past weekend down in Portland, Oregon. The course was the same as nationals in 2004, but the course was in much better shape...although the weather was horrendous. The Boys rode awesome. Steve won on saturday after being in the 2nd spot at almost every USGP race! So we were pleased as punch with that. Emsky rode really strong too and they both earned invites to the xmas cross camp in belgium. They will get to do 6-8 races in about 12 days over xmas vacation. eurocrosscamp.com check it out...donate! Also, Nick, our U23 guy earned a trip to the camp after a tough weekend. My bro from Durango came out too, Mr. Matt Shriver, mattshriver.com, He rocked on Saturday taking 11th and dnfed on Sunday, ahhhh cross racing! I must admit. It is getting harder and harder for me to be at the races without racing. Its killing me in fact...so, I joined the Hagens Berman Cycling team for next year. lets hope it turns out to be less than a total disaster! www.hagensbermancycling.com

Switching gears:
google the following: AMERO . WTF is Georgie trying to slide by us now????? Oh, black tar to the north, (thats canadian oil)and slave labor to the south (mexicans)...lets all be friends and for one union. GET FUCKED GEORGE!

Ron Paul. is he a quack? I dont know but he is the only one defending our constitution and not trying to rape it for their own financial good. He seems to be an honest politician, if that can exist, but will he win the bid to run for president? I doubt it, I wish someone with 2 real balls would get elected and put the whole bush administration in jail for crimes against humanity and take our country back. If you want your freedom back vote for Paul or even Kucinich, talk to your neighbors be civil and turn off CNN and Fox news. Use your brain and form an intelligent opinion. Check out Pauls stance on the IRS...it might freak you out. OPEN YOUR EYES PEOPLE

Sorry for the political banter but this country is going to hell in a hand basket. Stand up, vote, be heard and take your country back from the Neo / Theocons. Dont let fascism take our country by storm, because thats what is happening. The big corporations have stolen our government. I will probably get tazed for this blog but I believe in my right to free speech!

Google: Private military. yes like Blackwater...that is some scary shit. Now when the executive branch cant get the congressional nod to unleash the war machine, they just put out a contract and hire the private sector military. WHAT????? impeach those bastards! Bill got canned for getting a blow job. W and Dick are wrecking our country and violating all the laws that make our country what it is. ACCOUNTABILITY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hold those turds responsible

alright, that is enough for now...I am out.

whats up?

2007-11-08T12:29:00.000-08:00

Back in the Saddle

Hollie and I both put our legs over the top tube of our bikes this past weekend at Donida Farms Cyclocross. It was a blast. The course was fantastic, the weather was perfect, but most importantly it was good to be racing. It was literally an "off the couch" operation as neither Hollie or I have ridden the bike since August. We have both been too banged up. Our clouds of pain parted and we raced.

Chris Leading the Boys

I somehow was even fast enough to Race near the front of the Elite mens race and mix it up with the boys on the team. That was so much fun to be in the mix with the kids, cool. Especially since those guys are flying right now. I cant wait for this weekend to try it again.

Some other news: I was asking Hollie if it would be okay to buy tickets to a rock show up in Seattle. $20 a ticket, 4 bands, not bad...she told me no way. (yes things are that tight right now)...So this morning I am eating breakie and listening to KGRG streaming and they say they are going to be giving some tickets away to the same show. So i pick up the phone and call. 5 questions later i won 2 tickets to go see New Found Glory and Senses Fail. I am pretty stoked. There has not been a lot of fun around here lately so you can imagine...I am going to go rock out with a bunch of teenagers. thank god there is a bar!

Oh, Tuesday nights Hollie and I have a new gig. We are going to the Eagles Ballroom and swing dancing. I am sure you are trying to picture it right now, and yes I suck...and yes Hollie rules. But it so much fun.
Well, thats about it for now

USGP, RAD

2007-11-01T11:07:00.000-07:00

IAN "THE DANE" TERRY

I just got back from Kentucky and the first round of the US Gran Prix of cyclocross. The weekend offered up 2 races for the countries best to throtle each other for and hour +/- in dirt, sand, grass, mud and pavement. I did not race either day...I took out 4 strong lads from the RAD Racing NW racing program. 3 juniors and 1 U23 racer. all in all a great weekend.

Erik Emsky rocking

The junior boys raced so strong it was impressive to watch. on day 1, the boys ended up:
Steve Fisher 2nd
Erik Emsky 6th
Ian Terry 8th
On day one Steve rode hard and out in front, staying out of trouble. While Erik killed it but a bobble held him up, which later forced him to back off, so he would not aid in the chasing of Steve whom was up front...damn tactics, selfless action by erik and a solid ride. Ian had some bad luck drawing 2nd to last start position. He did not let it bother him but the traffic in the first sand pit caused a crash and a lone chase for the rest of the race. He went from 30th to 8th when it was all said and done. WOW!
In the U23 race RAD had Nick Weighall, the Cardio Kid as he is affectionately known, lived up to his billing as a super natural lung as he rapidly moved up from 4th row start to latch on to the highest ranked U23 rider, Jamey Driscoll. This also put the both of them in the top 15. Nick was railing and looked stronger than his U23 competition...but like NASCAR, nicks tires let him down and he had to pit for tires, back out he went but another mechanical was in the cards. So 5th U23 was the best he could do and top 20 overall

FISH

Day two the boys all had to over come the results of the day before to race again.
Steve: his legs where so sore we has limping when we walked to dinner.
Erik: Frustration at having a small mistake cost him making the front group and then the tactics forcing him to hold back.
Ian: Crappy start position and a crash.
Nick: Bad luck.
All I can say is that the boys had no problem over coming these things to put up stellar rides. Ian was amazing. You cannot tame the Dane! He drew a bad start position again, but rode smarter to get through the traffic only to hit the front of the race and drill it for 2 laps, shaping the front group and Launching Steve to another 2nd place. Erik just missed the split again, but rode so fast and solid with Ian just dangling behind the front group to end up 4th. Ian, somehow recovered from his opening effort to take 3rd.

Nick had much better luck today and the U23 battle was HOT with 5 guys riding together the whole race. Nick yo yoed in and out of this group, but fought hard to take 3rd. I was very impressed with his fight and I was glad the juniors where watching...he is a great example of a fighter!

Well, that is about it. The RAD crew will be in action in Washington for the next 2 weekends before we head out to New Jersey for the next 2 USGP's...until then

sigh of relief

2007-10-09T09:05:00.000-07:00

EUREKA!!!!!

We drilled our well yesterday...and it was a great success. The hole went 117ft with a static water level of 63 ft with a 70 gallon per minute yield. That is right, I said 70 gallons. not only is that enough water to open a water park, the water is so clean. When the well was blasted out, or developed under pressure the gravel discharge had no silt, sand or anything on it...meaning crystal clean.

CAP IT

Here is mike putting a cap on the casing and banding our $250 tag from the state board of ecology.

UDO CHECKING THEIR SET UP

FIRST CASING

THE SUPERVISORS

Andy, the dogs and I hung out all day to watch the entire process. It was so cool to see everything and learn how all this stuff works. Now, we are going to design a gravity feed system to supply the water to the desired areas. I want this sucker to work when the power goes out!

creeping along

2007-10-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

PHASE I

Well, this is where we are at. We have a set of plans that are ready to be submitted for a building permit...thats right, we still dont have a building permit. We are going to build a 36 x 36 garage with a 900 sq. ft apartment up stairs, which if all goes well will become the offices of TIMBER WORKS LLC. We are not going to build our Timber Framed home until our house in California sells, if it ever does.

POOP TANK

Thats pretty official eh? The septic design has been submitted by the above company for approval by the county. You have to do this for your well and septic before you can submit for a building permit. That is if you are going to have water and a toilet....

PERKY!

That is one of three perk test holes we dug for the septic design folks to design our drain field. This cost $800.00 and we dug the holes. The county fee was $550. In this county you are aloud to install an approved septic system once every two years without a license...so I will be trying my hand at septic installation as well.

THIRSTY?

This is our beloved well site. We are using Arcadia Drilling because of their great reputation out here. Now, there has not been a drill in the ground yet, but I like these guys and feel good about it. I did all the site prep for the drilling rig and the secondary truck that will be on the site. This is supposed to occur next week. That is going to be the first BIG check we will have to write. Its do or die for us now, because after this check is cashed we will have nothing. A bit nerve wracking but I guess this is life. It would be much nicer if our home would sell.
In good news, We finished the garage remodel in Lake taps...it took a little longer than expected but its done. Rod and I are now about to take on our first official job as TIMBER WORKS LLC. Rod was approached about doing a pole barn for the Nature Conservancy real close to us down in littlerock, wa. This will be the big test, we will be milling the lumber, grading the land, pouring the concrete and raising the barn. The whole shooting match. Hollie started a new job today with the Washington State Department of Health. I dont know what her job is or how long it will last, but from the sounds of things the first day went well.
So thats is that and a ball of wax.

Rod & April Boe

2007-09-17T18:20:00.000-07:00

Introducing...

The grand entrance at the reception. It all happened so quick. The ceremony was held in a nice old church just a stones throw away from the Inn that we stayed at and were the reception was held! We had to race back to beat the Bride and Groom.

Hollie, taking her job serious!

Hollie looked quite beautiful standing up there...I had trouble focusing on the wedding because of her! The words from the pastor were very profound and clearly layed out the commitment of the union, it was moving. Rod and April looked deep at each other again, moving.

Ah, The Atlantic

Hollie wanted to get as close as possible to the Sorters (whom are in Italy) and say hello. Check out their adventure. www.eurosorter.blogspot.com

That is no post card.

I actually took that picture. That sums Maine up. The North East is very similar to the North west. It was a really neat place to visit, I am sure Hollie and I will go back.

Cutting a rug

Beverlee was a terror on the dance floor. I think someone must have told her that it was a dance ' a ' thon Because she was out there all night!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A TIMBER FRAME

we found so much Post and beam / timber frame construction from the 17 and 1800's it was really cool. This pic above is actually a new structure being built at the Structure institute in Woolwich, Maine. I took loads of pics and picked up a few good books on the art of timber framing. I am even considering going back there for an educational course!!!!!!!!

Well, we are back from Maine. We woke up at 3 am this morning and were in the air by 6 am. Jet Blue rocked, direct tv at each seat all the way back. (when I was not snoring)

harpswell, MAINE

2007-09-14T08:39:00.001-07:00

FOREST FAIRY FRAMING

We are in Harpswell, Maine for Rod and Aprils wedding and so far it has been a great trip. Besides all the standard New England stereo types like lobster boats, hard working folks and the word "wicked" put in front of everything we found some other things "Maine" today. For example, we went for a hike to the highest point in Harpswell...about 160 ft above sea level, the forest that the trail went though was a fairy forest...and there were all sorts of little homes. So Rod, Bev, Hollie and I all contributed and built 4 more houses to add to the 100s of otheres...Hollies looked quite nice, but Rod gave his a hot tub!

CAPTAIN TOURISTA READY FOR ACTION

I was ready for action...I even put my camera case on my "UTILITY" belt! NERD ALERT! I think I need a cape.

HOLLIES HANDY WORK

Hollie was passing a lot of her travel time crocheting. This pic was taken in Sea Tac Airport...she got after the crafting early in the trip! Just like Beverlee and Grandma!

SWINGERS

This massive swing is on the grounds of our B&B which was founded in 1761! Its old, cool and there is an old post and beam barn right across the street. Very cool.

KICKING IT

Another fine piece of vacation equipment on the grounds of the B&B. We all took turns on this comfortable lounger.

HOT MAMA

Here is a pic of Hollie and the view of Casco Bay, right at our doorstep. We walked out to this little island when the tide was out and soaked up the view.

well that is part of day 1. The evening cannot be spoken about!

Its time to get dirty

2007-09-02T21:39:00.000-07:00

HOLLIE ON THE SOUND

It is that time of the year again...its time to get dirty. ITS CYCLOCROSS SEASON!!! Its sad to say that my #1 team mate has suffered a setback to the start of her cross season. Hollies hip is so bad she has to pick up her leg to get in and out of the car. Good news is that she is going through a good course of physical therapy and being proactive to find a solution to get back to normal. It sucks being injured. It sucks watching and not being able to do anything. I have been there and I know how bad it is. Sorry babe. dont fret, there is always next time, next race, etc. we just have to get her better.

YES I PASSED UP SEVERAL BEERS

So this cross season, being our first in the North West, I am going to ride my brains out for Hollie. I already feel like I am behind, but I think hard work and motivation will payoff in the long run.
In RAD racing news, the boys took another cat 3 win today. Its just awesome to watch those guys stick it to the 3's.

sad,sick or glad

2007-08-11T19:36:00.000-07:00

Well, I made my last (i think) trip down to California to pick up what was left of our home down there. Rod, hollies youngest brother, was nice enough to make the trip down there with my truck and a trailer so we could pick up the big things...the tractor, the couch, our wonderful bed and our space aged washer and dryer...oh and out little subaru! Upon leaving I did not know whether I should be sad, sick or glad. sad...a bit, that house was so cool and in such a great place with great neighbors. Sad about leaving some of my friends behind. The Loon Dawg will be greatly missed. He is like a big brother to me. Always screwing around and helping me out or just giving me heaps of shit. Sick...a bit, that house is still being paid for and it has not sold yet. Gulp, and the market down there looks like its in some rough waters. Glad...a bit, to be getting on with "it" whatever "it" is.
I have been wracking my brains lately as to what I am going to do...still planing on building the new house, just waiting for all the lackeys up here to get with the program...surveyors suck, draftsmen suck and dont get me started on the county! Lets just say its going to be along time before I am swinging a hammer...at least for myself! So, I am convinced I need to learn a trade. I have been looking into welding and I think I might take a course this fall at south sound community college. Its a big time commitment as the class is 5 days a week and 4 hours a day...
I am also having the time of my life working with the RAD racing team. The staff and kids are just the kind of people I need to be around to keep the juices flowing! We are taking some of the "A" team kids up to crystal mountain 8/15-18 for a little dirt camp. Tons of riding the knobby tire bikes and hanging out with sponsors...it should be a blast...I hope the kids dont kill me on the bike!
Actually I hope I will be able to ride by then. I cant fit my foot into any shoe right now or bend my ankle. I got attacked by hornets yesterday and stung several times. My leg is about as big as an Indian elephant, slightly smaller than the African elephant, but still too damn big to do anything. My elbow is in similar shape, big and swollen, i feel like popeye. I am so glad I did not get stung on the face!!!!!
anyway, enough of my non picture rant.

lake tapps

2007-08-05T12:22:00.000-07:00

NICE DAYHollie Kickin' it Urban Cow Girl Style

We spent the day at Lake Tapps for Delaneys 5th birthday party. We all had a good time and the weather was great.

FLOATER!

We did a lot of floating around the lake. Nice water temp and nice air temp...we also got to check out the new Boe house at the lake...which i forgot to take some pics of. Next time

RAD racing attacks Boise

2007-07-29T15:32:00.001-07:00

THE FISH

For those of you who did not know, I have been in Boise, Idaho this weekend at the tour of idaho bike race for juniors. I took the RAD racing crew out and had riders in both 15-16 and 17-18 group, 6 kids total.. Derrick Archibald, bad ass cat 1 from Olympia and myself took care of these guys as they did everything they could to win both races overall. the Race was 4 days and 5 stages. The heat was a big factor for our guys, but we still kicked butt.

IAN STAYING CLEAR

Ian Stayed clear of the lead group to win the final stage with the RAD train cleaning up 2nd and 3rd. Steve fisher won the day before in a crazy 42 minute solo effort. He was actually leader overall on the road at one point during the stage. The team was sitting in 3rd, 4th on GC after the hard stages so we had to go on the attack and force the others chase. I was so impress by our guys. They never gave up and rode strong. We may have not taken the overall win but we were on the podium everyday and won 3 stages total. Benny was insane. He absolutely killed it for the guys and still whopped up in the field sprint today. Once they new Ian would win the stage, they lined up the train and took Benny in for second. He is like a bull in a china shop...perfect for field sprinting. Kosta, the new comer to bike racing and our team won the mountain top finish Road race. It was awesome. He took out 51 seconds in about 2 kms. big future if he wants it!

THE CREW

These are some good kids. It was my pleasure to take these kids to this race and share what I know about bike race. It was also nice to meet Derrick and have him helping me do the best for the kids. I would have been screwed without him

THE FINAL PODIUM

Sean and Eric took 3rd and 4th on the final GC. After killing it all week these kids have earned a good rest before the final training prep for cyclocross. Great Time, Great team Great trip. I am pumped to be part of the RAD Racing program.

the truth hurts

2007-07-22T17:07:00.000-07:00

well, I just got back from the un40km time trial championships out in Tenino, Washington. It was warm overcast day with super high humidity. I had no idea of what to expect of myself in this 40km(+) effort but I figured it would be a good gauge to see where my fitness is at. The past is messing with me though because I have high expectations of myself. I have ridden a 50 min 40km before so i felt i could do something good today. I was wrong. The course ended up being over 40kms so the times dont jive in comparison, but I sucked anyway. I was not strong enough to turn the big gear, which is my usual tactic in such a race, and I did not have the leg speed to spin a lower gear at a higher RPM. Result: I sucked! The good news is I know that I have a lot of hard work to do before cross season starts.
In other news, I am taking 6 juniors from the RAD Racing cycling team, of washington to the tour of idaho this week for a 4 day, 5stage race. It should be a good time. We leave wednesday morning.

Props again to mat shriver, www.mattshriver.com he had another good performance in British Columbia again today at the tour of Delta. Nice work my friend.

progress and pain

2007-07-18T09:02:00.000-07:00

PROGRESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thurston County got our parcel # assigned so we can now file a building permit. Geeeezzzzzzzzz that only took forever. I dont know what they had to do...press the enter key on the computer or something. but anyway, its done. The surveyors have one more day of work to do and they are done, so the site plan can go to septic design and the well location can be proposed!!! How exciting.

PAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am going to inflict some pain on myself this weekend. I plan on doing the Skagit Flat Circuit race up in Gig Harbor on saturday and then the Washington State 40km TT championships on Sunday. Its going to hurt. I just got the TT rig built up...i will post a pick or two. Jim brown loaned me a pair of Mavic Cosmic Carbones so at least I will have some fast wheels, the rest will be up to me!

Shriver!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Matt Shriver rocked the house last weekend up in Canada by winning the Tour De Whiterock. Hats off to Matt. and yes, the new house will have a place for you to stay Matt! www.mattshriver.com

more to come

re boot!

2007-07-13T10:21:00.001-07:00

THE NEW VIEW

Well, if you dont know by now, hollie and I have moved to Olympia, Washington. Thats right, the Double Dog Ranch is for sale in Nevada City...and a new ranch will be built . In fact, the picture above will be the view from the east side of the house. And where we are, eastern views mean one thing...Mount Rainer. We have a big 'ol view of the 14,000 foot massif! This pond is about 1 of 4 ponds on our 40 acre tract. The dogs are loving the water right now as it has been a bit warm. The dogs have also had a lot of fun chasing the coyotes, but as the coyotes get bigger I think we are going to have a slight problem on our hands.

LOOK TOWARD THE SITE

Here is a look toward the building site. This pond is very clean and peaceful, I am thinking about building a dock out there for some fun. Right now we are waiting for paper work stuff to be finished. The county is sorting out building permits, the survey company is re-establishing the corners, the well folks are waiting for the septic folks, and the septic folks are waiting for the site plan...i guess this is the building process! In the meantime we have been getting ready to bring power to the site. We have to do some tree removal and dig a ditch for 6/10 's of a mile for the utility company to bury all their wires and cables. Luckily this time I have a backhoe at my disposal to dig the ditch!

The plan right now is to build a house with a detached garage with an apartment upstairs. Big decks and big yard! Even though we have not yet started, I wish it were all done! This is the time of the year up here you can really enjoy the evenings with a little BBQ and some great temps.
Speaking of good times, we went to my Brother in law and future sis in law, April and Rods house last night with Gordon and Beverlee, for some great BBQ. After a scrumptious meal we went out on the Sound on Rod and Aprils boat. It was real nice...I cant wait to go again!
What else, well, with all the waiting I have been doing lately I have been riding the bike a ton...it keeps my mind off the stress of paying for a house you dont live in while you have no job!!!!! Besides that it has been great to get big miles back in the legs. Hollie has been at it too really enjoying this weather. Hollie also starts a part time job today with the Nature Conservancy. I think she will be floating along rivers trying to eradicate weeds that are foreign to natural protected areas...sounds like fun to me!
I will try and get back at posting...I have one more trip down to Nevada City and we should be all out of the house, but it is up for sale...if you know anyone looking send them my way!

cheers

The trip ends!

2007-06-14T10:23:00.001-07:00

TIME TO SHAVE

I must say sorry, if anyone was reading, for the long gap between posts. Things got a little hairy after the last mountain bike race in Leavenworth, Washington. For starters, I crashed hard at the race. It was the scariest crash I have ever had. Long story short, I aired out a water bar at about 35mph and landed on the front wheel. That was bad. I bounced off the hard packed trail and flew down a cliff to my left, without my bike. I was grabbing on to tree and earth trying to arrest my fall. Luckily I stopped and i missed the major plunge. It took me a minute to inventory myself and I got back up to the trail. I figured my bike had exploded, but it was fine. I was not. I could not move my left arm and I was pretty sure that I had punctured every organ under and around my rib cage. I got down the rest of the trail and to the medic tent. I was hurting and the helmet was exploded. All i could think about was Hollie...i was hoping she would be safe.
She was smarter than I and got 4th in the pro women category. NICE WORK!
We were supposed to go to the Beer Festival afterwards, but I was not into it. So, we left and went to Olympia, Washington, to Hollies folks houses to try and recover. I am still in a lot of pain. I can use my arm fine, but no laughing, sneezing or coughing PLEASE!

FOXY LIKES OLYMPIA

The dogs found the sleeping space to be a bit nicer than the camper in Olympia! Not only the sleeping, but the playing. 250 acres of wooded land full o f ponds, bunnies, deer and coyotes! The dogs vacation really started in Olympia!

THE SUN SETS ON THE TRIP

So the trip is over, or is a new one just beginning? I think the later. Hollie and I loved the trip and a month was not enough time. We were living. It is so important to find out what is really important. If you (blog reader) have ever wanted to take a trip or an adventure, or learn something new...DO IT ! Life is so short. ENJOY IT. Besides, Life: no one gets out alive!

Upon reflection I have discovered a few things. I love my wife more than I did before we left. Which I could not imagine because she is my world. We are better best friends. We are soul mates for sure. I know that we can do anything together and laugh at struggle instead of stress about it. Hollie makes me so strong I cant imagine life without her. I hope everyone has a Hollie in their lives!

the thrill of the swill

2007-06-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

GOOD CLEAN FUN

We are off to Leavenworth, Washington for the thrill of the swill. How much more fun could you have? A great mountain bike race followed by a beer festival with live music!!!!! That just screams to us to come and get it!
hopefully we will have a good race report and some great photos. We have been on the down low since Memorial Day weekend...kind of recharging after all the driving and riding we did. So for the last week its been mostly riding and chilling!

blog log

2007-05-28T07:52:00.000-07:00

BLOG LOG

So, its been a few days since we blogged. Well, here it is...the blog log. That tree is a doug fir, I have never seen a doug fir so big. We rode through this big clear cut that made out trail hike back in McCall, Idaho look like a walk in the park. We have found some good riding and conditions lately. We Kind of had to go on the run on Memorial Day Weekend. We have been in 3 states trying to find a spot to settle down for a few. I had no idea Americans camp as much as they do on this Holiday weekend. We could not find a place to stay. Not paid campground, not a state or national campground, no boondocking and not walmarts. its all full! So we had to go to a safe place. I thought about going up to Canada, seeing they dont celebrate Memorial Day, but we did not.

THE UNDERSIDE

This picture gives you a clue as to where we are...That is Hollie and our team mate Luke, from the Sonic Cyclocross team. The weather has been really good and the riding has been GREAT! Yesterday Luke took us on a little journey on some logging roads bisected by single track it was a blast. We could not escape the sound of 2 stroke engines and gun fire. The motos were like swarms of insects and the guns...it was like a bad old western. I guess Alcohol, quads and guns are how a lot of families celebrate the holiday?????? to each is own!
Anywho, we are kind of recovering from our whirlwind last couple of days and settling in for some good times! We will be racing and swilling bavarian beer this weekend in Leavenworth, Washington. Beer and bike racing!

we split boise to Sun Valley...and split again

2007-05-23T20:52:00.001-07:00

Was SUN VALLEY SUNNY? NO!

Take a peak at the fresh snow on Borah Peak. We were very cold. We boondocked out on Warm Springs road, which has great Mountain biking right at the doorstep, but Damn it was cold. Snowing everyday...In between riding and sleeping hollie and I did a fair bit of reading, to stay warm and all. I read The Perfect Storm in about 12 hours!

SELF PORTRAIT (no nostrils)

I took this pic where Imperial gulch and green horn gulch meet. It was up a pretty loose moto'ed out single track which took some serious concentration, and traction just to keep moving up. Lucky for me, there was a table and chair at the intersection and it was not snowing.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?

This is way out there, I was so happy to take a seat and have hollie snap this photo. But, the wind picked up and the cold poured down the mountain bringing snow. we moved on!

MORNIN'

Hollie getting the dogs food ready before the ride...note the Down Jacket! It was cold!

Boon Docking!

Dont be fooled by the sun light. It was short lived and the flurries of snow followed. It was a great place to camp out though. Just the sound of the river running in front of us...great sleeping...or that might be attributed to the 3 moose drools I had before bed.

Biking

Bundled up in May. We are still having a great time. In fact todays ride was one of my top 3 rides of all time. I have been riding a bike since I was 4 or so, so that is pretty real. It looks like Hollie is having fun here too!

I could stay in Sun Valley for a long time and ride. There is buffed single track in places you cant imagine. The bummer is that Sun Valley is for rich folk who dont liver there. The people who are there, whom might not be rich, have lost sight of the land they live in and kind of focus on "hating the tourist" or "the Californian" Everywhere we have been on our trip so far people have been so cool, especially in Idaho. I think the Hailey, Ketchum, SV crowd need to get back to the goodness of where the are. (RANT)

So, because of the extreme cold and Hollie being miserable we headed out of town today and drove the wrong, long way to Missoula. Wrong and long are accurate, but what a great mistake we made. We drove over some massive 10,000 foot dirt road at 15 miles an hour for 1.5 hours. The road had some crazy "moonshot" exposure to the river floor. It was unreal. It led us down into the Challis National forest, a beauty of a place, that we would have never seen if the GPS had not been so anal about the shortest (line of sight) route! I was stressed out for awhile, but I got over it fast! The country we saw today took my breath away!

So where are we now? Missoula, Montana. I dont think we will be here long. Perhaps one ride and split to Spokane...

hollie kicks ass again

2007-05-20T17:29:00.001-07:00

HOLLIE STRIKES AGAIN

Sorry, no pics from today. We both raced the Coyote Classic Mountain bike race just outside of Boise, ID. What a hard race. I am glad that it was not hot, or I would have cracked for sure. Anyway, Hollie was the winner of the expert class again and she beat several "pros" She must have pushed herself very hard today. I pushed myself quite hard today. For some reason I decided to start the Pro Mens race. note to self: If you are going to race with the pros, you need to train.
I killed myself to stay with the top 8 guys and I hung tough. At one point I thought my eyeballs were going to pop out of my head i was straining so hard! In the end though, my famous luck got the best of me. 3 flats in the last 5 miles. I walked it in.
I am pretty excited for Hollie. She is riding well. This race was in a national points series of some type. I think she should upgrade to semi pro...i better see what is required to do that!
(I want LOONDOG to know that Hollie was rocking the TR2 jersey again.)

So now we are sitting in an RV park in Boise, I was too tired to drive too far after the race. Besides, we needed water and a hook up. Depending on weather we are either going to Sun Valley tomorrow or Stanley, ID. A kind female racer today gave us a guide book to all of Idaho mountain biking...i wish i caught her name. How cool is that, hollie and her were talking about our trip and she was excited and hooked us up! Good people exist everywhere!

Larry and Hollie enjoying the Payatte river

C AND H

THE CAPTAIN IS BACK

Some folks might know that my code name is Captain Flapjack. The captain is back.

FLOWING

Hollie snapped this shot on or nice easy ride the other day with our dear friend Larry Swan.

all the above photos were taken in McCall, ID. We like it there.

loon lake loop

2007-05-17T18:59:00.000-07:00

SECESH RIVER

We knew we weren't lost when we found the "white bridge" This was an amazing piece of construction to see...We were out in the middle of nowhere (read below. EVERYTHING IS OUT OF ORDER!)

YUP, THATS THE TRAIL!

this is what hollie and i went through today to ride...read below...sorry the pics are posting funny, so things are out of order...

DONT SCREW UP!!!

seriously, I took this photo from the waters edge. If you miss judged this section, you would be going in the drink. And the Secesh is running!

GROUP SHOT

I am finally getting better at taking the self photo with the digital...no more nostril view....still have that dumb look on the face though..."we are taking a picture!"

HOLLIE RIDING THE ROOTS

I cant believe we got around that damn LOON LAKE LOOP today. We were warned that it might not all be ridable because of downed trees after the winter. But, being spoiled NOR CAL riders we thought...no big deal, so we move a few branches!

Well the ride started off good, the trail was a little soft, but there was another track in front of us so I felt like the loop must be ridable. We went about an hour on some fun double track that went up and down and around and around. Then we came out of the woods and onto the moon. There were burnt and dead trees for as far as the eyes could see. We hopped a few and climbed over a few hoping it would be clear around the next bend. We kept being hopeful but no luck. Now I was moving anything that I could lift just to get the trail crew party started. this went on for about an hour. No riding, just clearing and or climbing downed trees. as we followed the willow basket creek I thought it would never end. But then we saw green. the forest started to come to life.

We could ride again! Knowing we could not turn back, and hoping the worst was behind us we headed on. The riding was great. There was even a couple of MOTO tracks, so I knew the trail had to be clear!

We got out into this meadow just above Loon Lake. It was worth it in my opinion just to see the beauty of this place. The solitude in this forest is crazy. I mean there is this raw nature everywhere. Its not like the Sierras or the Wasatch, I dont really know what to call it, its just solitude. We saw, elk, bear, moose, deer, and wolf prints. this place is truly wild.

THIS IS JUST A FLOODED MEADOW

We made it to Loon Lake and we rode most of this last section. I continued to remove trees and limbs from the trail but it was much better than the willow basket creek section. What do you think of that view? I dont think a lot of people get back in here to see this beauty. I am sure the locals do, but not joe tourist. I feel lucky that we got to see it on such a beautiful day.

I dont know where we are headed next. I am a bit worried about heading further east...are we going to run into the same low snow and downed tree syndrome we have here? I dont know. Tomorrow we will make some phone calls to some friends in the Sn Valley area.

we ran into a couple today that are on a 2 week bike tour: round trip from Missoula Montana. They were in the grocery store here in McCall getting some food for their stay tonight. They were fixing a flat, so I hurried over with my floor pump and struck up a conversation. They were nice folks and seemed to be having a great time. some day..............................

la grande...i dont think so!

2007-05-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

hollie: chris, get your ass in the kitchen!
chris: I cant, I am all the`way up in the bedroom

I thought Paris Hilton was in Jail...nope!

we found this sweet little`park to do some relaxing

I AM GIGANTARD.
what happened, i used to be tiny!

Hollie making good use of her granny gear

Riding through the hills

Nice trail work, bridges keep the toes dry

i dont know why...but the bolg wont upload images...(got the photos up.)

la grande was kind of lame. we did the 2 hour ride (as per the local shop) and it took us 34 minutes. we rode a lot of circles...
we also went by th Eagle Cap Factory to show them our camper and the great work their #1 dealer did on it...they were drop jawed.
There were also millions of mosquitoes, so it was easy to leave. We pulled up stakes and headed to Mccall, Idaho. We drove straight to Poderosa State park, the venue for masters worlds nordic racing for next year, and were bummed to see the park was closed. We pulled in a stayed the night in the parking lot and took the dogs for a big walk. This morning we headed into town to do some wash. I hung out with the clothes and hollie went into town to get the info on the local riding.
Apparently we are too early as none of the trails are ridable. SHIT! so now I dont know what we are doing next.
oh well

bend, the heart breaker

2007-05-14T21:33:00.000-07:00

CHILLIN'

home sweet home in the camper. we had a nice meal and wine in a coffee mug. That is living large.

ROUGHING IT

I am pretty sure you could travel on roads like this for a year and never leave Oregon. We zigged and zagged across many roads like this one today. And we were really in the middle of what seemed like no where

The ROUND ABOUT

The flaming chicken as it is called by the locals, is an actual piece of art in the middle of a round a bout...a round about linking 6 single track mountain bike trails...wow, that is a dedicated trial crew!

HOLLIE SHREADING

These trails we rode today were so much fun and very well marked. COTA, is the organization responsible for the creation and maintaining the network of trails. They are also growing the number of miles of trail and linking up existing systems for some EPIC rides.

THREADING THE NEEDLE

Hollie getting it right, ripping through the dead woods. All day long, you can ride this kind of stuff.

Its bitter sweet that we leave Bend. We have no time line to leave, but we felt the need to get out of there. Bend has grown WAY UP! everyone is speeding around like they are late to somewhere! The hard part about it it that the access to the outdoors is second to none, but Bend is a major city...not just a little ski hamlet. SO we bolted after having some fun this morning.

After about 5 hours of WINDY driving, we stopped for the night in La Grande, OR. I dont think we will be here long. Tons of mosquitoes

we made it to bend

2007-05-13T19:06:00.000-07:00

TR2 game face

Hollie had a good time and a good result at the Chain breaker mtn bike race. We got in around 5 pm to Bend and quickly made our way to the race course so we could pre ride. The course was mostly on private land and national forest land. We also found a killer camp site right by the start of the race.

RIPPING

So, as you can tell, the course was awesome and tons of fun. Hollie laced up the techie course like a pair of steel toed boots! there was one section that traversed a wash that went back and forth 18 times!

IS THAT PRO?

That is the web cyclery bus. They put the race on. That mobile unit is one sweet ride. There is actually an area to do physiological testing in there.

START VEHICLE

I had to shoot a pic of this vintage retro scooter...sweet 'eh?
While Hollie raced, the dogs and I went for a really sweet trail run that lasted about an hour...just long enough to tire the pups out and get back to snap some shots of Hollie. By the way, Hollie won the expert group and was 3rd women over all including the pros. I guess it is time to upgrade from expert to semi pro.
After a nice lunch and warm shower we headed into town to get fuel and groceries. We also found out the "must ride" ride in Bend. So we headed out to Phils trail head and we found a ton of trails and a great spot to camp. As Hollie put together a fine diner, I went out to scout some single track. I went out for about an hour on the mountain bike and had so much fun!
Anyway, we are going to ride this morning and head out of Bend. I think North on 97 to east on 84 to La Grande, Oregon.

ready...set...go!

2007-05-11T08:58:00.000-07:00

CUSTOM DOG PLATFORM MOD

I built a 60" x 30" platform for the dogs and Hollie made a one piece durable pad for them. She used upholstery foam and ripstop camo fabric sweet. There is just enough room underneath for some storage as well. The bench flips up completely for access. By taking the rear bench seat out of the truck, we gained 12" of additional room for the pups. SPOILED!!!!!!

We are taking off on our trip tomorrow morning, ready or not! The first leg of the trip will be the only planned, rushed leg. As we need to get to Bend, Oregon as early as possible. Hollie is racing The Chain Biter mountain bike race on Sunday! Bend is a great place, so we should have a good time.

LOADED UP

I still have quite a bit of work to do before tomorrow, but I am not going to stress over it. I just dont want to forget anything major, like tools or cook ware. I still dont have a good solution for the poop tube storage either or a solid place for the bike work stand. I think this extended trip will be a great insight to "how to" live in a camper. A lot of note taking and drawing will be done I am sure!

THERE SHE IS...OUR DIGS!

We plan on staying in contact as much as possible...mostly through the blog. We will have internet as long as we have cell reception. So I will try and update everyday...but you never know. Wish us luck and dont be surprised if you see us out in your driveway with our dirty clothes and an extension cord!

glasses? CHECK!

2007-05-06T16:00:00.000-07:00

6 days and counting until we take off for our trip...we have got our shades!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

AUDI ME!

2007-05-03T16:19:00.000-07:00

SPRECHEN SIE DEUTSCH?

Dad, i cant believe you told Ed to have me pick this sucker up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Have you lost your mind?

SAFE IN THE DRIVEWAY

Rest assured and enjoy Spain. the Audi is tucked in neatly in front of moms garage door!

my dogs are so damn cute!

2007-05-03T10:38:00.001-07:00

UDO ASSUMES THE FETAL POSITION

I guess we know how UDO spent the start of his life in his mommys tummy! either that or he wants to be a sailor and is practicing his knots

IS THAT A SQUARE KNOT

THE WILD CHILD

That is my wild girl, FOXY, aka the fox hound. does she look comfy or what?!!!!!!!!!
We love our dogs, they are so damn cute!
to think someone sent me some link to a time share for pets! who could time share a pet?! you should not own a pet if you think time share is a good option. that is just my opinion

recycling pirates

2007-05-02T08:49:00.000-07:00

BEWARE!!!!!!!!!

So this is my solution to the people who insist on taking my recycling bin every week! Last monday was the first time my skull and cross bones bin went up to the trash area, and it was there when i picked up the cans! Usually somebody takes your bin. They either take the cleanest one or just take mulitple containers 'cause they are more important than you! anyway, what do you think? would that keep you from stealing my bin?

help me....

2007-04-27T16:57:00.000-07:00

the new combo

I need help with the new color combo...does any one hate it? does any one like it? any suggestions?

this is just about as exciting as AMERICAN IDOL I know...please lete us know what you think...the painter will be done in 2 days! so if we are going to change anything i will have to move fast!

completed!

2007-04-23T10:01:00.000-07:00

THE DITCH!

This sucker ended up being 204' long. and it was a pain in the butt to dig. Some spots where easy and others I was breaking rock...like I was in Prison! UDO just sat down there and watched.

THE CULPRIT

The new water softener and nuetralizer are the 3 tanks to the (our) right of the big blue tank.
This process is taking my hard, iron / acid laden water and turning it soft and safe. It also feels like I have soap all over me!

The JD...
too bad i dont have a ditch witch for this sucker

hard right for power

I figureed while I was at it, I would bury some power down by the gate for a light, an outlet and maybe a gate opener...when I am old and lazy!

Fill 'er up!

Its done. all that is left to do is to get my auger out of the ground and place the light post in the ground and wire the light and the switches and we will have it.

Just to make things excited...it rained hard mid day saturday through sunday. I also failed to get my prep work on the gutters done for the guy who is painting our house this week. I hope he is not too pissed!

QUESTION: What are you doing to be a little more GREEN. Our planet is in danger and it is the little things that you and I can do that will help get things going for our planet. Do you want to wait around for our Government or BIG BUSINESS to do the right thing? yeah right!~ The funny thing is, the capitalist is missing the opportunity turning our world green. There is SOOOOOOO much money to be made. WAKE UP!!!!!!!
The first thing Hollie and I are doing is replacing our light bulbs with the compact little jobbers... this is supposed to be way more efficient...sorry GE. We already support local farmers and eat pretty organic. Supporting local farmers reduces fuel waste of transport and storage of foods, plus its fresher. Eating organic eliminates all the harmful chemicals that are destroying our environment, these petro based products also stop the renewable resource cycle. we bike commute to work trying to offset driving and carbon exchange.
what are you doing?

ditchin'

2007-04-19T12:02:00.000-07:00

THE DITCH

well, this is what I have been up to lately...digging a ditch! This has to run down past the gate and about 2 feet around the corner into my drainage and back towards the house to the exit bib on the water system. We had to buy a softener a salt tank and a neutralizer system for our well. it was $2600 installed...only so far I have doen al the labor except for putting the tanks in. I had to dig out this rediculous hole under the house for the system to platform on and now this. The guy never told me about this. The 2 new tanks have to back wash 60 gallons each every 3 days...well, those gollons of water are so high in salt that the discharge will kill trees! plus, its washing all my gravel away. so, i dig the ditch. its below the frost line so it wont freeze..while I am at it I am going to drop in electrical for a light on the gate that i can turn on and off from the house. it has been a pain in my butt. Hopefully its worth it!

the next step

2007-04-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

THE MOBILE OF MY DREAMS

I think I am in love. this bad mobile turned up while i was searching for flatbed truck camper modifications...this is one bad motor home if you will.............................................anyone want to give me a blank check?
www.ruf-inc.com check 'em out!

Tough Chick

2007-04-11T13:21:00.000-07:00

DRYING OUT!

Hollie is a tough chick. This morning she rode her cross bike to work as she always does and after 2 minutes of her leaving the house the skys opened up and strated dumping rain. I was driving in, so I grabbed a rain jacket and headed out to meet her before she hit the trails. I caught up to her, rolled down the window and handed out a rain jacket...just like a crusty old euro director of some cycling team. No compassion, just a jacket. As I drove off I thought to myself, what a jerk. you just left your wife out in the rain and drove off! And then I thought, how cool is that, Hollie just grabbed that jacket like an old pro and got back to riding. She did not ask to get in and I doubt she even thought about it! mucho respect to her this morning, because it was cold out, and nothing sucks more than being cold and wet!

the weekend is over...

2007-04-09T13:02:00.000-07:00

HOWDY!

The Weekend was pretty good for us. We went skiing at Royal Gorge on saturday where the snow is dissapearing quickly. I had to do and end of the season "on snow" performance test, to see where i was at. That went okay, but it took me awhile to find a 6 minute hill that was skiable. I got it done though!.. Hollie enjoyed her last day of skiing on the skinny skis. Its hard not to, it is so beautiful up there, I think everyone should go at least once just to see the views! Its a little early to be putting the skis away, but the storage wax is on all the skis and we switched over to the bikes on sunday.

COMIN' IN HOT!

So Sunday we got out on the dirt and did some riding! We got out on the new section of Miners trail off the bottom of the lower section of the Pioneer trail. My hat is off to the folks who did the re route of tha trail. It is wonderful. Challenging and a real refreshing stretch of trail. We loved it! Thanks!

PRETTY

Saturday we also took the dogs on 2 hour hike. our plans were to go all the way down to the jones bar section of the south fork of the yuba river, but we got stopped about 300 feet short of the river by a big ol rattle snake. that sucker was 5' long and it scared the crap out of me! Hollie did not even see it and she was on track to step on it! I always have my snake eyes on down there and i screamed, "SNAKE!" Damn snakes! I hate them! So we turned around and headed back up. I had my snake radar on for sure after that. Thanks goodness Hollie was paying attention and snapped the pick of the spring flowers...

ANNIE OAKLEY

I thought I would put this one in the post. Hollie practicing her positioning for shooting. She is aiming at a tac on the wall. has she lost her mind?
its only Monday and I cant wait for the weekend. I hope we do something fun!
I am up for some adventure.
I have been going to the gym 3 days a week and I am not allowed to do too much extra activities per my coach, I am getting bummed a bit. the gym sucks.

Kula Girl

2007-04-05T09:16:00.000-07:00

Hollies KULA SUPREME

Who loves the pink cable housing? I think it looks really good with the toothpaste green! What A sweet bike. Its built up with Shimano XTR components and FSA carbon cranks...the fork is a Rock Shox SID world cup, the one with the carbon steer tube and crown...nice. This sweet little number was put together masterfully by the best mechanico in the world...the loon dawg. You should go see rich over at TR2 bike shop in grass valley...he will get you going!

AHH how cute!

I hope the matching bikes dont make you want to get sick...because if they dont,when we wear matching kits that will! (should we get monogramed towels too!?)
These bikes rule. Everyone should go and test ride a Kona. These bikes are full of Soul and performance, the best of both worlds. We like 'em

ROAD TRIP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-04-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

FOXY GETTING CUMF'

The whole family hit the road this weekend. We headed off to Mammoth Lakes, California for the final nordic ski race of the year. I did the 42km skate race and Hollie did the 21km skate race.

I was excited to hit the road!

Tamarack Lodge parking lot was our home for the trip. We "boondocked" right on the frozen shores of Mary Lake. The dogs love the snow...even when it is filthy!

Udo is the chief navigator. He makes sure no one up front is slacking off when driving.

The trooper poopers hanging out in the camper willing us to let them do their own thing!

Breakfest is served! Pre race meal, cereal and eggs...

The Line up of the 42km field...thats me on the far edge...is that a gun show pose or am I stretching it out?

AHHHH, a granite fin poking out of the shadows just after sunrise.

The race went really well. The conditions were pretty good until the last lap but all in all a good day out. I dont know what got in to me, but I had an itch to attack early on in this long race and I did. I think we got things going a little early in the race but it shook things up to make it very interesting. My hat goes off to my mate, Rick for using good tactics to help me get the initial gap and a big tip of the cap goes out the Jacub Benes and August B. August followed my attack and solidified the damage. Unfortuantley for August, i think his effort got the best of him as he fell off the pace. Jacub and I duked it out for the rest of the race. Jacub out skied me in the end. His skis were better in the softening snow, but his efficient technique and strength got Jacub the win. I came in second after getting popped in the last 10 kilometers. I was fighting my skis and wasting energy...it got me in the long run. We still went fast coming in under 2 hours...I should not blame the skis. They rocked the first 2/3's of the race, and it has most to do with the fact that I did not put a "rill" in the bases' to help evacuate the moister form the contact of ski to snow. MY BAD. Hollie had a great time too. She was the 8th female finisher and the first in her age group. Plus, she shaved 18 minutes off her time from last year. NICE WORK!
Anyway, ski racing is over for the year and it is time to move on. I am working hard to put together our route for our big camper trip and trying to coordinate some cool mountain bike races / riding with our trip...so if anyone has any "MUST DO" races in the the inter mountian west in the next 6-8 weeks let me know!

hollies new gear

2007-03-27T14:22:00.000-07:00

hollies splitboard!!!!!!!!!
This is the Prior Backcountry. The split board comes apart into 2 "skis" so you can "skin" up the mountain. Its much faster than snowshoes.

Spliting allows you to access more of that(pic above) and do more laps
check out www.splitboard.com for the "101" on it all. I am really excited for hollie! time for some face shots! With the new snow and cold temps we have right now, i think it is game on! we are heading to mammoth this weekend, so hopefully they are getting the snow too!