Sunday, August 9, 2020

Damn Good Opening Week To Aug 2020

I need your advice. Both legally and constructively!! How do I engage with the youth while promoting the benefits from cycling?? How does one encourage kids to ride bikes to school?? Where the hell do I start?? All those questions were answered with one simple phone call. YES

Red Columbine Flowers Here At The House I Am Taking Care Of
The choking smokey valley has been my poor A$$ Excuse for the lack of effort riding the last few days. On the commuter bike, YES. But no real sporty miles to speak of. You know, the sun was in my eyes. Those who think they are at a disadvantage, as their assumptions put up barriers between themselves and the truth, it's the ones who understand their own ignorance who will learn the most.

Floating From GJ to Fruita - The Dragonfly Day 
And the hiking, most excellent. So many happy people on the trails compared to the concrete jungle of the city life. Everyone waves and offers a simple greeting when meeting face to face on a single track trail. There is no time devoted to political assessments. Polite humans do exist still. Who Knew


Strava sent this notice to me via e-mail. Had no idea?? But its always refreshing when receiving positive acknowledgment. When I really think about it, I offer these unusual beliefs that are surprising. It's those rarified ideas that open new thought processes and move me in a fulling direction. Local Legend


The triple digits are tolerable but the winds haven't been a favorite. The Western Slope has been windy everyday since January. Those poor pressure gradients are all mixed up and I am so thankful that I am not a migrating bird these days. Its Been Weird


Before the smoke invaded the Valley, enjoyed a solid 5+hours in the saddle. Felt very strong all day and finally packed proper nutrition for inhaling while turning the cranks. I actually ate twice and consumed 3 liters of water while rolling along this perceptibly tangible long distance. This ride supersedes my awfully mercurial headspace. Not Bad


Sunday the 2nd of August was rough. Woke up way hung over from late night marauding around town on bikes. The Dude talked me into playing dress up and decking out the beach cruisers with holiday lights for a spin. So anyway, woke up early, threw the GT in the back of the truck, drove to Fruita, parked at the take out ramp there, and rode for 1 hr 14min INTO A HEAD WIND OF COURSE. The Dude was pleased we didn't have to shuttle vehicles before putting in. Nice


The float was truly radicle. Beautiful day for it. So many folks floating on rafts, SUP Boards, two canoes which seem to be an obsolete means of river transportation these days, and a number of groups locked up on inner tubes.

Very Inspiring Family Outing 
Here is a cool little moment, the older lady in the red jacket, she was very wobbly on her bike. I casually called out like I always do and spoke like I do with newbies. "Plenty of room." I reassured her. "I am in no hurry here." I then say while they regain control of their bike. We chatted a little and she informs me that its her 80th birthday and her son is leading her on a ride. Phuc Yes


 That lady Dana on top of the leader board is currently riding the Great Divide. That would be the route from Canada to Mexico. They obviously were not allowed into Canada but are having the time of their lives. So she clearly dominates our Strava group. Dana totally rocks in all facets of her life and I am proud to call her my friend for over 6 years now.


As for the numbers before the fire, 236mi /379km in 17 hours and 41 minutes, all before the 7th of August. So in my own world of make believe, back in the olden days, a normal 40 hour work week, I was on the saddle for almost half of that time. Classic

Full Moon Soak - The Powers That Be 
Here is my latest YouTube video from my old dinosaur iPhone footage. This particular video is just over 4 minutes in mesmerizing length. Thanx for watching as I really appreciate your support and feedback.



Be Well & Think Of Others,
Cheers

63 comments:

  1. That a well put together video.
    Love the Acquilegia (Granny Bonnet/Columbine, first photo.
    Beautiful scenery you have shown.
    Take care.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Right On And Thanx For Watching - Pleased You Found That Photo So Beautiful - Be Well

      Cheers

      Delete
  2. Beautiful views, I love the photo with these beautiful clouds! Have a lovely week ahead☺

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Nothing Like Morning Clouds - Looking Forward To The Week Ahead

      Cheers

      Delete
  3. Hello,

    I enjoyed the video and the beautiful scenery! Is the smoke from a wildfire? The Columbine is a pretty flower. Kudos to the amazing 80 yr old woman riding the Great Divide. Take care! Have a happy day and a great week!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanx Shadow People - We Have A Raging Wildfire Just North Of Us - The Mornings Are Brutal With Smoke But The Afternoon Winds Keep Us Clear

      Cheers

      Delete
  4. The video is way cool. I will watch it again tomorrow in the cold hard light of day. I hope you are doing ok. You seem to be.

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    Replies
    1. Right On Drew!!! So Appreciate Your Support And Feedback

      Be Well,
      Cheers

      Delete
  5. Very interesting post, beautiful photos :)

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  6. Dearest Travis,
    Wow, that was a lot of Sights and Sounds from the beautiful West in that video. Excellent work; professional I would say.
    That lady Dana has a Dutch surname, guess they do make good bikers and if she's from the North, she's taller build too.
    Good for that 80-year old to bike. My Pieter is over eleven years her senior but he's no longer allowed to bike in hilly areas, due to his heart condition. But it sure is proven to be good for staying active!
    Love your labeling of the fat cat! They are all cats; that's a fact.
    Hugs and stay well,
    Mariette

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanx So Much For Watching - Pleases Me - Yes, I Believe She Is Half Dutch And Half Brains - Bummer On The Heart But Walking Frees The Mind - Its That Funny, Wasn't My Doing And I Laughed The First Time I Rode That Section - Would Love To Know The History Behind It As Its About A 12 Mile Section - Thanx For The Positive Vibes

      Cheers

      Delete
  7. ...keep rocking and rolling!

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  8. You've got me hooked onto biking. I think I will get one for myself now! That 80 year old has shown it can be done! Hell ya, am just 67! 😊
    Loved and inspired by all your captures and captions!

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    Replies
    1. No Way - Never Thought About Your Age - Congrats On A Healthy 67 - Start Off Slowly With Low Miles, Build Your Confidence, And Then Ride It Like You Stole It

      Cheers

      Delete
  9. Hi Travis, I enjoyed this post the full moon soak just sounds like a delight...the ride video very nice and casual...love it, Heard about the heat and the smoke, my sis who lives up on a hill out of Rifle, says the whole valley is under a smoke hazard, hope its contained soon, she says its near De'Beque Canyon it's so pretty there and lots of animals live in that area too. Im feeling about 25% better so good to still be among the living and to be able to visit these nice posts your making!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Quite Overdue On The Soak And It Was Fabulous - Rile Has Horrible Air Quality Right Now - The Fire Exploded Yesterday As We Sat At 2% Humidity With 25mph Winds - Pleased You're Rebuilding Your Strength - Been Thinking About You - Be Well And Eat ThemFruits

      Cheers

      Delete
  10. OK, I thought it was hot here, but you have us beat -- slightly. (Which isn't surprising, I suppose.) You gotta admire anyone who's 80 and out riding a bike! Good for her! Love the video too -- especially the quick dog shot (and squeaky toy sound effects).

    ReplyDelete
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    1. I Did Admire Her - She Was A Bit Nervous About Me Chatting With Her At First But Then She Told Me Her Life Story - At 80, I Listened - The Whole Goal Was To Bring A Smile To The Viewers Face As The Heard The Squeaky Toy - So Thank You - Seriously , Thank You

      Cheers

      Delete
  11. I would be a victim in that heat you have. Here, with humidex of 33, we are out at 7 a.m. when it’s a bit cooler. I fear I wouldn’t walk otherwise.

    We are still waiting for our new Rad bikes. Wish they’d hurry up and get here.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dawn Patrol It Is - Nothing Wrong With Walking - Very Excited About Your New Bikes - So Looking Forward To All The Adventures

      Cheers

      Delete
  12. Inspiring post Loved your video-and the sound of the bike especially We have been too hot here as well perhaps some rain this week

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    Replies
    1. Oh and I love columbines need to plant some here at our new house

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    2. No Need, Simply Allow

      Cheers

      Delete
  13. Cool video, I enjoyed it. Some beautiful scenery in both the video and photos. You're moving onward my friend, keep up the good work! Enjoy this new week.

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    Replies
    1. Right On Mr Bill - So Glad You Enjoyed It And Thanx For The Inspiring Words

      Cheers

      Delete
  14. Cool video Travis, lovely scenery, and beautiful flowers!
    Kisses

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    Replies
    1. Yes, It's The Simple Things, Flowers - Something Special About Blooming Little Guys - Thanx For Checking Out The Video

      Cheers

      Delete
  15. What a beautiful place you get to ride in! I loved seeing your slice of the US. It's so different there compared to the Midwest. Keep on riding!

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    1. You Are Killing It With Your Running And Crossfit Gains - Your Running Would Sky Rocket Out Here - Endless Single Track For Melting Away Those Worries - Hubby Would Appreciate It As Well - Stay Strong

      Cheers

      Delete
  16. I really enjoyed your video. An armchair vacation for me. A glorious day, indeed. The colors are gorgeous, the sky, the flowers. Take care and have a good eek

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  17. And in English, that would be week 😺

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm Good With The EEK Week - Thanx So Much For Watching And For The Feedback

      Cheers

      Delete
  18. I am inspired by cycling as well as you. It feels good to be eager to see and meet a beautiful location.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Every Location Is Beautiful When You Are On A Bike - Roll On

      Cheers

      Delete
  19. I hope I'm still actively riding a bike when I'm 80, especially in triple digits! What a great way to spend her birthday. Keep on trucking my friend, and have a great week!

    ReplyDelete
  20. Ha, how you promote the benefits of cycling to modern kids??
    How I tried when mine was younger, even confiscated his phone, tablet etc...and he still refused to shift himself!😬
    So, if you do ever find the solution...then you will deserve a medal!!😂😂
    Yes, I noticed that too...when you are out walking in the countryside, pretty much everyone acknowledges everyone else. If only that were the case in town. In my neighborhood, if you smile and say Hi to anyone, they look at you as if you are from Mars!
    And many thanks for the video...it felt like a fantastic day out. I so enjoyed!😊😊

    Have a super day...and stay safe.

    Cheers 👍
    I find that really sad.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Too Funny - Not Knowing The Age, Would Make A Game Of It - Use The iPad Together As A Timer - Son Takes A Lap Around The Block, Take A Lap In The Opposite Direction - See Which Is Quicker With The iPad Timer - Who Knows

      Cheers

      Delete
  21. Look into the DEVO programs, they help teach kids mountain biking skills. I know there was/is one in Durango so they have them in Colorado.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanx Man!! Reached Out To Bone Shakers, An After School Program - Have A Sit Down Meeting At The End Of August - DEVO Was An Excellent Suggestion

      Cheers

      Delete
    2. Good deal, hopefully one or both of them can help you out.

      Delete
  22. As far as I know, kids love to ride....
    beautiful sceneries

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Agreed - Wonderful Hearing From Ya - Stay Strong

      Cheers

      Delete
  23. I am glad that you are okay. The fire there is enormous, and I'd started worrying about you. The smoke is choking us here. I tried to go fast today but then coughed for almost an hour afterwards. Bad idea.

    I'll have to come back to watch your video. My internet is doing nothing but spinning :(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We Have Been Fairly Lucky In Comparison But This Morning, Well, Thats A Horse Of A Different Color - The Valley Is Socked In With Smoke As The Air Shifted Our Way Last Night - Bring On The Westerly Winds - Thanx A Million For Think Of Me - Why Must Our Internet Be So Screwy In 2020 For Phuc Sake - Stay Strong And Ride On

      Cheers

      Delete
  24. Fantastic video...watched it twice. That forest fire looks horrific...hope the winds don't pick up. Congrats to son & Dana. A biking trip from Old Mexico to Canada would be thrilling. You take care.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Fabulous - Thank You For Watching And So Pleased You Enjoyed - The Winds And Single Digit Humidity Are Fueling That Sucker - Of Course, The 10 Year Drought Has Played A Significant Role - That Route Is Ridiculously Beautiful AND Painful - Big Hugs

      Cheers

      Delete
  25. Just some years ago I´d said "FUN", cycling is FUN!
    These days it´s dangerous with all those lazy people using e-bikes, e-scooters... car drives having music on LOUD, not seeing or hearing anyone.

    Tell them: Be careful, you´ll qualify as being intelligent. Take time and enjoy where you cycle through, you´ll find beauty.

    Henry is a tad... he is not a fat cat, he is a city Lion ;-)
    Woods are so dry here, also. Crazy weather.

    To normal times, soon - cheers!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Solid Advice - Duly Noted - Classic Fat Cat - Be Well Until Normalcy Returns

      Cheers

      Delete
  26. How to promote cycling to kids and young? Maybe try to get in touch with some local school, suggest some kind of reward or motivational activity or program for cycling. Maybe get PA teachers to get them extra points? Maybe there is a local organization or association you can count on or brainstorm together with? Write down your ideas and share them. Cycling aps and social media posts could also prove helpful.
    Congrats to Dana for making it to number one. Your numbers aren't bad either. Keep on riding. Beautiful photos and video, I enjoyed every minute of the video. Gorgeous landscapes and nature.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Absolutely Agreed - Excellent Point And I Sure Do Appreciate Your Thoughts And Comments - Dana Kicks A$$ - Will Ride When I Can - Best Mind Easer These Days - And Thank You So Much For Watching The Video - The Western Slope Is Full Of Beauty

      Cheers

      Delete
  27. Now that is a very beautiful tub on that last photo my brother Padre! I would love to soak there until the sun goes down! I can see little by little the leaves are starting to turn a more yellow shade :) Always take care Padre!

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    1. That Soak Was Exactly What I Needed - So Bizarre How Our Cotton Wood Trees Down By The River Are Turning Already - Really Nice Hearing From Ya There Brother Man - Stay Strong

      Cheers

      Delete
  28. Replies
    1. Thank You - Not Bad For An Old iPhone

      Cheers

      Delete
  29. Hello,
    What a great places to go out. Very nice to go with a canoe.
    Or nice to go by bike in that wonderful are.
    Great pictures!!

    Greetings, Marco

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That Canoe Trip Was Topped Off By Witnessing The 7th Largest Wildfire In Colorado's History Explode - Sure Wish I Could Capture A Time Lapse That Day - This Fire Was Created Its Own Weather Phenomenon - You Are Right, Nice Place To Ride - Much Appreciated

      Cheers

      Delete
  30. Riding a bicycle is good for you to keep healthy.
    Please take good care not to get heat shocked while riding.

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  31. Cool photos! Thank you very much for your sharing! )))

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