Thursday, September 3, 2020

Completely Useless

First month in many many moons that I have no real numbers to share. For Example; 2017 AUG 51 Hours, 698 Miles, 23 PR's, and 77 Activities - 2018 AUG 50 Hours 768 Miles, 17 PR's, and 79 Activities - 2019 AUG 56 Hours, 664 Miles, 36 PR's, and 45 Activities


August 2020:

A big ol whopping 0 PR's, 7 rides, and 198mi/318.65km recorded for August 2020. Way back on the 7th of August was my last Garmin/Strava update. Sure, I rode the commuter bike but nothing worth getting all excited about. Remember the lack of winds I was so pissy about???


Thought I would go out for an easy spin on the 29th of August but No Way. The smokey air quality was improving but my legs were immediately sand blasted by the arid desert landscape. The southern cross winds damn near pushed me into traffic. Check out the directions of these swirling winds from 4pm to 6pm. Is that crazy or what?? S,W,N, and E!! Phuc-This , I'm going on tour. Wait, no fall concerts. So I packed up the camper car and headed for the thin air that hugs those mountain peaks.


WORK:

Was hired on to install Hurricane Clips. Had no clue as to what that meant. I was expecting to be slaving away on the blistering hot roof. My wide brim hat, thick leather work gloves, knee pads, thick MK pants, and a gator for soaking my neck with cold water were all unnecessary. Felt Pretty Dumb Here But Looking Damn Good

Hurricane Clips Are Attached From The Inside 
LAWNCARE:

I have been mowing depressing amounts of lush grassy lawns here in the high desert. And pulling a lot of weeds. No more pesky weeds around those massive flagstone pavers and very healthy mint in the foreground for fresh evening Mojitos. Its why they call it work, right?


But I got all of my chores done, yards were mowed, and deep soak watering so I could enjoy the cooler mountain temps without a care in the world. So I got that going for me.


SWIMMING:

Lets talk about old and slow. Like total newbie. For instance, forgot how to wear swim trunks. The range of motion isn't there by any means. My timing and overall rhythm is rusty. Where did my Lats go?? Where is my cycling cardiovascular system?? When did I lose the ability to count laps??


But the experience of pushing off the wall, arms together in that forward missile launch, and those sounds of little tiny air bubble under the surface never changes. A controlled breath with every third stroke felt comfortable with little to no laboring effort. Just a simple breath, kick, and glide. Talk About Feeling Alive



FULL MOON:

September's full moon falls under the title of the Full Corn Moon. This Full Moon just might make us a little more emotional than usual. Like I Need That Sh*T. The full moon in Pisces affects all zodiac signs. The more you let yourself feel, the more you'll learn about yourself. Filled up my mason jars with spring water as an offering to the Moon Gods. Hope It Was Successful


GOODBYE AUGUST:

Last weekend of The Boy Dogs Birthday Month was a blast. Packed the camping car on the 30th and drove to where the mountains ridges touched the stars. And the stargazing was beyond words. I sat in my little fold out chair and just stared for hours. Just staring up with a barking neck ache. Then, the sunrise on September 1st, WoW!! Mind Bending  


 I spent a few hours along the banks of the Crystal River and The Crystal River was just that , crystal clear. Stumbling upon this hidden gem made my day. Fresh Spring Water!! Talk about a score!! These jagged Rocky Mountains always amaze me and there is so much to still be discovered. Fresh air, beautiful clean water, and quick rain showers to subdue Mr Sun's glaring ray's of heat. Afternoon squall lines of rain passed through these valleys and over the peaks like clock work. And the leaves are beginning to turn as Fall is right around the corner. Bring On Halloween

As I was heading out of town, driving my thoughts into a mental cul de sac, the cutest damn bear cub ran out in front of me. I drive like an old slow grandpa so it wasn't a near miss or anything scary. But that bear was moving. My best guess would be right around 150 pounds but so lovable. Saw this video by KB Bear and those two cubs matched my own observation. Both in weight , size, and that baby brown cub color. Love Bears



GOALS:
  1. Check In With Friends 
  2. Swim With Purpose 
  3. Make It Through The 20's Of September 
  4. Ride Like The Wind 
  5. Paint The Outside Trim
Be Well This September,
Cheers

88 comments:

  1. I'm so glad that you saw that bear. Nothing makes me smile like a sighting, and it sounds as if it did the same for you.

    Your visit to the mountains sounds like it was rejuvenating. September is a new month, and you started it with optimism. Be sure to paint that outside trim ;)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Agreed - Something So Special About Safely Crossing Paths With Bears - Extremely Rejuvenating As You Know - Promise, Will Paint The Trim And Touch Up The Facia Boards

      Cheers

      Delete
  2. It's good to know that bear was cute.
    Nothing like spring water - running from above the mountains, always when a teenager I would take a container and fill up by a stream.
    The produce looks good and it's hard to get people to pull weeds..
    Your building effort looks good, I'm sure it will hold.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So Happy You Experienced Spring Wells - Its Magical To Me - Not A Fan Of Weed But Poison Doesn't Turn Me On Ether - Will Hold And Owners Were Very Pleased

      Cheers

      Delete
  3. Stargazing is a really cool thing to do. It has been too long since I did it. Now is the time for me to do it again.

    That produce looks very good. I also like local fruits and vegetables.

    Happy September!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hope You Found Your Place Under A Blanket Of Stars - The Veggies Are Coming On - Start Canning Next Week - Happy New Month My Man

      Cheers

      Delete
  4. Never heard of Hurricane Clips - one of the few good things living in Germany, we don´t have Hurricanes yet. And even in a weird storm... we live first floor.
    Hmmm, that bowl looks tempting.
    Oh, I miss swimming! And your August-good-bye sounds wonderful. Hmmm, and the water... "sweet" memories. Halloween has not really arrived in this country. As in 3 kids on that night trick or treating is... well... they were in a group, too.
    Never saw a real bear. Must be frightening?
    If I may ask... what´s on 20th, sharing might help.
    Cheers to you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You & Me Both - Just Had The Halloween Talk Last Night With The Little Ones - Nothing Frightening About This Bear Encounter But You Are Right - Will Share The 20's Of September As It Nears - Thank You For Asking And It Will Help To Share My Thoughts

      Cheers

      Delete
  5. As always stunning views! The plate of veggies look great☺

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  6. Hello,
    The hurricane clips sound like a great idea. I hope you are back to biking and swimming soon. Your produce and the pasta meal look delicious. Beautiful scenes and great goals. Happy September! Enjoy your day, wishing you a happy weekend!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank You - They Were Wonderful And So Rewarding - Also, Pretty Easy To Whip Up - Thank You For The Well Wishes - Much Appreciated

      Cheers

      Delete
  7. For me August was a long, dreadfully hot humid month. But, that's South Texas. Your filled days were busy & much accomplished. Love the mountain scenes & that spaghetti dinner looks mighty good. Enjoy your month ahead. Keep on!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Very Long And I Became Rather Cagey - Just Spoke With My Buddy In San Diego CA And Explained How We Were 98F and 4% Humidity - Told Him Its Not That Bad As 90F And 90% Humidity Is Rough - Will Keep On Keeping On

      Cheers

      Delete
  8. ...and here I thought that completely useless was about #45!

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  9. Forest puppies! Thank you for sharing the video. They were so cute. I especially loved the night video with the bear eyes glowing. Be safe on your travels.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Fast And Reckless - Thanx For Watching The Video - Speaking Of Watching, Will You Watch Tampa Bay This Year?? All The Best With Cam

      Cheers

      Delete
  10. Naked bathing. Swimming naked in crystal cool waters must be great. You must do it frequently and often.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Totally - However, Only Stayed Submerged In The Crystal River For About 4 Seconds - Out Of The River Within 3 Minutes - As For The Pool, Yes, Swim Trunks Had A Mind Of Their Own - Really Enjoying The Pool Time Though

      Cheers

      Delete
  11. Looking forward to a welcome September!

    ReplyDelete
  12. Wonderful post, Padre. We all have times that don't fit the norm but onward we go. New month, new goals, and a new horizon. Bring it on, a happy and healthy September to you, Padre!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yo Mr Bill, Thank You - Yes, On Ward And Up Ward - Trying To Be Better Tomorrow Than I Was Today - Thanx For The Vibes

      Cheers

      Delete
  13. Hopefully the air quality improves for you soon and you can get outside and ride again. Even here I can tell there is something not normal in the air. Great photos as always, that spring looks tasty but so does the spaghetti.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The Sauce Was Beautiful - Been On The Bike Lately And Its Totally Righteous - Damn Good Hearing From Ya - Be Well

      Cheers

      Delete
  14. Swimming! Wow. I haven't been swimming in years and years. I'm sure I'd have similar challenges with reminding my body what to do! Sounds like your breathing was easy enough, which is the hard part.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Lets Been Honest, I am Just Floating Around - Sure Look Forward To Your iPhone Photos And Olga Updates - Thanx For Being You

      Cheers

      Delete
  15. Dearest Travis,
    Wow, the question at the end of the day ought to be: 'So, what did we learn today?'. Those Hurricane Clips sure were new to both of us but make perfect sense for holding on to the upper part of beams.
    Sad for the smoke having prevented you from enjoying rides in nature...
    Great produce you yielded though and keeping your yard weed free is quite an accomplishment. That is my goal for 2012. After all the research, filing and then writing, back to more home-bound chores to enjoy. We've been biking Sunday, Tuesday and yesterday, regardless the heat. Went well, of course not such lapses as you cover, due to both our health issues. A leaking heart valve 91-year old with his wife running on 30% kidney function. I always need lots of bottles of water in my bike's basket. That used to be my Dachshund Mauzie's seat on the bike, she enjoyed riding with me.
    Can't believe we've landed in September and soon temperatures will be a lot more pleasant!
    Yes, at the Hyatt Place Savannah/Hilton Head Airport we swam lapses and I enjoyed it. Our doctor said it proves to be still the best exercise, heart related. Can't judge that but loved doing it. Can't lay still, too antsy so those lapses and counting was a good thing to do. Not like decennia back but still rather active.
    Love the bears too.
    Wishing you a lovely September!
    Hugs,
    Mariette

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What Did I Learn Today, Brilliant - Thanx For The Recognition For The Manual Labor I Have Put In This Summer - Thanx For Riding As This Makes Me Smile - Was Unaware Of Your Age And Health Concerns So Now I Am Very Pleased Your As Active As You Are - How Wonderful - Plus, The Low Impact On Your Body Is A Bonus - Yes, Truly Love Bears And Happy September To You Both

      Cheers

      Delete
  16. I’ve heard of the hurricane clips but don’t know if anyone here has installed them.

    The stargazing and swimming sound great. Too bad there is still smoke there. I hope by next month all is clear!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The Stargazing Was Right Out Of Time Magazine Or National Geographic And I Wish I Had The Ability Or Equipment To Time Lapse Space In Motion

      Cheers

      Delete
  17. Great idea the clips...I know the winds can howl in the mountains...
    TOO hot to even be alive right now my August was a total bust and I think the Emo Moon got me...
    well if it doesn't get better these might be the good ole days so we have to find some sort of silver lining, Im still thinking about it drawing a blank at the moment.
    Have a lovely weekend.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I Had No Clue And I Really Was Under The Impression That It Was Snow Based And Not Wind Reasoning - Happy To Have The Work And Feel Needed Again

      Cheers

      Delete
  18. Swimming for me: jumping out of the boat and letting the rope pull me out of the wake. Yasssss

    I spy a Crystal Geiser bottle and is that a coincidence?

    Enjoy those tomatoes and that mint!!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Right On And I Am So Glad You Caught That - Good On You - The Mint Smells Devine

      Cheers

      Delete
  19. Fresh spring water... that's a real treat! Sounds like you have some great goals lined up for this month!

    ReplyDelete
  20. i have always adopted a certain way of thinking. be happy for what you did and not what you didn't or couldn't....

    we install hurricane clips in all of the buildings we build, i knew exactly what you were talking about!! your sauce looks so delicious, really good!!

    my tip on swimming, that works well until you get back in the grove, i swam with a "noodle" under my arms. it held me up and allowed me the time to freshen and get my mojo back. i still use it if i am tired!!

    i was happy to say goodbye to august, it was not kind to me. LOVED the puppy, good goals today!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So True And Excellent Tip - Will Update As I Go - I Certainly Understand Why You Are Please August Is In The Rear View Mirror - Stay Strong

      Cheers

      Delete
  21. What a great area. So nice.

    Greetings, Marco

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marco, So Glad You Checked In - Really Enjoy Those Photos Of Yours

      Cheers

      Delete
  22. Sounds like a jolly good month to me Padre, lots of lovely experiences. I can't wait until it warms up enough to swim again, won't be long. I think you are such a high achiever that if you don't get amazing stats you aren't happy, a more chilled time now and then is good for the soul 😉

    ReplyDelete
  23. You had a lovely month, amazing recap!
    Happy September Padre!
    Kisses, Paola.

    Expressyourself


    My Instagram

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Rough Month And Damn Are They Flying On By

      Cheers

      Delete
  24. if there is something I can eat on a daily basis for the rest of my life, that is Spaghetti! No matter the sauce it has whether bolognese or alfredo or carbonara or even just toss it over olive oil, garlic, and bay leaves, it's already a heavenly meal for me! I hope the air improves more in there brother and I've heard from my older brother in California that the heat there is unbearable this past week, I hope it's at least a little better out there in CO. Sending out hugs from the Philippines!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Noodles, Nothing Like It - The Sauce Turned Out So Well - Reduced The Tomatoes, Added Garlic, Red/Yellow Bells, Red/Yellow Onions, Thyme, Rosemary, Oregano, And One Dried Crushed Habanero Pepper - California Fires Have Exploded And Unfortunately Filled Our Valley With Smoke Again - Think Snow And I Appreciate The Vibes

      Cheers

      Delete
    2. You had me at Habanero brother Padre! I would sure love that! I love spicy foods so much! Sad to hear the Cali fires have reached the smokes there. Praying it would end soon and clearer air would be back. Brother may I ask for your email address so I can send you my address as you told :)

      Delete
  25. Replies
    1. Thank You - Always Nice Hearing From Ya - Be Well

      Cheers

      Delete
  26. Fabulous post, Padre! Sounds like a pretty good month!

    Cheers!

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    Replies
    1. Thank You - Looking Forward To The Rest Of This Month - Take Care V Lee

      Cheers

      Delete
  27. Fresh water is the best :) you had fantastic time :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And Cold - Fresh, Clear, Mineral Enriched, And Ice Cold - Doing My Best As Always - Even When I Am Doing It Wrong I Am Still Giving It My Best

      Cheers

      Delete
  28. Super fine post. And a spag bol is almost unbeatable. Have fun avoiding the wind dude. Know what I mean?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. A Hot Dish Of Noodles And Homemade Sauces Were Unbelievable That Evening - Thanx For Checking In And I Know Exactly What You Mean

      Cheers

      Delete
  29. Replies
    1. Espero que setembro seja lindo, já que entramos no outono

      Cheers

      Delete
  30. Those hurricane clips look like a clever way to add stability. I've learned something new today.
    Your lunch looks delucious. Yammy looking sauce.
    Your cycling numbers don't seem so bad considering the harsh weather conditions, the fires and the heat you have had to deal with. Let's hope Fall will be more cycling friendly. Maybe the jars of spring water will bring some good vibes back from the moon.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Agreed And I Really Thought It Was A Snow Issue - The Sauce Was Beautiful But Gone So Quickly - Thanx For The Encouragement - The Jars Were Magnificent - Excellent Awareness

      Cheers

      Delete
  31. Diy food conservation, like it

    Best regards
    Bernhard

    ReplyDelete
  32. I wish i could ride my bike more often. Have a great time 😉

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hop On And Roll Is My Advice Without Knowing The Details - Be Well

      Cheers

      Delete
  33. Love that shot of the river. These adventures sounds so fun.

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  34. Thanks a lot =) Stay fresh too.

    Interesting post. The food looks so delicious =) This year is passing by so fast, it's crazy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Time Does Fly By When Reflecting But August Drug On For Me

      Cheers

      Delete
  35. Se fue agosto sin pena ni gloria. Este año no se ha podido ir a la playa y ni siquiera era conveniente salir a la calle porque las temperaturas rondaba o sobrepasaban los 40 grados.

    Buenas Noches. Es hora ya de descansar.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Nossas temperaturas estavam na casa dos 100 de julho e agosto, mas lindas agora

      Cheers

      Delete
  36. first photo is attractive...and your lawn looks so beautiful...love it

    Have a great day

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    Replies
    1. Many Thanx And The Lush Lawn Is One Of The Many Yards I Have Manicured This Summer - Enjoy Your Weekend

      Cheers

      Delete
  37. I also imagine how beautiful the moment that you experience watching millions of stars in the camping event on August 30th ..., that's an experience that I also want to have.

    Amazing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I Only Dream Of Being The Proud Owner Of A $5,000 Camera, $15,000 Computer, And The Intelligence Of How To Time Lapse The Evening From Dusk Till Dawn - The Night Sky Offers More In One Night That The Idiot Box Has For Decades - My Opinion Anyway - Be Well

      Cheers

      Delete
  38. Dear friend, you always share such great number with us that every time I had to read aniother post form you I always thought "this man can't stop moving and doing things". Even if this time the numbers are not as the other times, I can see that you were very, very active nontheless. I see you worked a lot in so many ways. I respect a loit men that know and like to cook but in your case, I really envy your vegetable and aromatic herbs garden. If I could only have a piece of land where to grow my veggies... this is probably one of the things I miss most of my life in Romania. I am still glad to have a balcony where to grow my herbs.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And I Was Literally Going Out Of My Mind Because I Am A Busy Body Person - Its Vey Difficult For Me To Just Hang Out And Watch Missed Opportunities Pass On By - I Will Think Of You And Send Positive Vibes Your Way On The Great Union Day This Dec 1st - BTW, Do You Live Anywhere Near The River Danube?? Would Enjoy A Photo From The Balcony - Stay Strong

      Cheers

      Delete
  39. That meme cracked me up. And nice produce!

    ReplyDelete