"...Where Wings Take Dream"

A Fine Lens and Gil

2011-11-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

Seamus's First Haircut

2011-03-05T19:32:00.000-07:00

BEFORE:

AND NEAR THE BRUTAL END...

2011-01-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

2011-01-09T10:59:00.000-07:00

Holiday 2010

2011-01-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving '10

2010-11-27T12:29:00.000-07:00

Gilbert's Potential...

2010-09-10T17:45:00.000-06:00

A co-worker created this thoughtful video. Thanks, Syd!

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Gilbert Quinn Cronin!

2010-09-10T17:42:00.000-06:00

Born September 3, 2010 @7:29am. 7lbs 10oz 19.5in.

Mini Setup for Baby #2 (Sept 2 due-date)

2010-07-26T18:50:00.000-06:00

Lots of Pictures (in no particular order)

2010-07-26T18:16:00.002-06:00

Seamus 13 month video

2010-06-15T16:48:00.000-06:00

Botanical Garden Visit

2010-05-08T09:11:00.000-06:00

Seamus's First Zoo Visit

2010-04-20T19:12:00.000-06:00

Shortly after this wild pair was observed in its zoo habitat...

They escaped into the picnic area!

Naomi and Seamus

It's hard out there for a chimp.

Seamus's Ten-Month Video

2010-03-29T15:41:00.005-06:00

You Mean Those Were Monkey Brains?

2010-03-14T20:33:00.000-06:00

Seamus's Nine Month Portaits

2010-03-13T17:40:00.000-07:00

Bath-time Fun

2010-02-07T09:53:00.002-07:00

Seamus and his best-bud Xavier took a soak.

2010!

2010-01-20T19:32:00.005-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-28T10:09:00.001-07:00

Apple Core! Who Want's More?

2009-11-08T14:11:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-25T18:44:00.002-06:00

Seamus @ Five Months

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Just shy of 4 months

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Seamus Reads!

2009-08-09T14:49:00.000-06:00

2009-07-31T10:10:00.001-06:00

Seamus vs. The Monsters

2009-07-31T10:00:00.001-06:00

Red River Retreat

2009-07-15T13:35:00.006-06:00

Along with Granddad and Granny, we rented a cabin in Red River, NM for a week. Seamus had his first chairlift ride and gracefully took to a green run on the ski slopes, albeit sans snow.

Granddad (above)

Granny (above)

Seamus's New Toys

2009-07-07T19:40:00.000-06:00

Ten Weeks Old!

2009-07-06T10:45:00.001-06:00

Seamus's Workout Vid

2009-06-21T12:23:00.000-06:00

The Sounds of Seamus

2009-06-08T16:18:00.000-06:00

2009-05-31T10:22:00.001-06:00

One Month Old Already!

2009-05-30T16:14:00.004-06:00

We all have three months to spend together now that work obligations are on hiatus. Seamus has a rough schedule: sleep, eat, wardrobe change, repeat. He is sporadic in his sleep stretches, especially at night. He can go for six hours or just two. We prefer the former and dread the latter. Our schedule: Wake, feed, pump, do laundry, eat, nap, repeat.

He took the bottle just fine last week, which was a relief. His fondness for car rides has waned slightly, but they still calm him. Seamus has been to more restaurants lately than we ever expected within one month's time; he's a cheap date.

The latest head shots:

2009-05-23T12:23:00.000-06:00

Week 3 photos

2009-05-17T09:33:00.000-06:00

Week 2: We'll keep him!

2009-05-08T09:24:00.003-06:00

Seamus had a busy first two weeks. He had his first pediatrician appointment, first bath, first dinner out (Indian), and the list goes on. This weekend we want to go on our first walk, probably with him in one of two slings that Granny St. Clair (not Great Granny St. Clair) made for us. As one can see from his photo-op, Seamus took to his first voyage aboard the GSC Sling 1. He was so at home that I kept him in it for quite some time, even through lunch and computer sessions. Perhaps there is something to the 'fourth trimester' theory.

Video uploaded!

2009-05-01T15:18:00.001-06:00

Click over on the right-hand side to watch on YouTube.

Seamus Dixon Cronin, born April 26, 2009

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Text to follow...pics for now.

Let the Countdown Begin!

2009-03-29T15:46:00.003-06:00

Here is Leigh, aka 'Big Mama'. We went for a hike with a visiting friend in the Sandias. There was a bit more snow than expected, so the top was not our final destination.

We are officially in week 34 of the pregnancy. Three weeks until 'full-term' status, but the due date remains May 10. The measurements of baby $*^#@% continue to be one week ahead of schedule, so perhaps we'll see him prior to the tenth. The nursery is set up, although we need to rearrange some furniture placements. Other than that, let the countdown begin!

Hilarious video. Thanks Carrie.

2009-02-07T12:57:00.001-07:00

We're having a boy! (in May)

2008-12-18T16:18:00.004-07:00

Our ultrasound tech was unabashed in her labeling of anatomy with arrows.

Everything looks good.

Thanksgiving Visit

2008-12-16T12:59:00.009-07:00

This Turkey-day, we were joined by Leigh's folks. We also took a drive down to Bosque del Apache, a national wildlife refuge. Here are some visual highlights, plus a tiny video.

It's What It Is...

2008-07-17T16:32:00.007-06:00

Our first campground out of Breckenridge in the Arapahoe Nat'l Rec Area.

This was opposite our tent. Not bad.

This one and the following two are of the lake that we biked around after our camp stay in ANRA.

Road stoppage in Rocky Mountain National Park, where we will stay for four nights.

Top (~11,000ft) of our 6 mile hike in RMNP.

Day 21 July 12 (Fairplay to Breckenridge)

2008-07-12T17:16:00.002-06:00

The last solo day! I woke to find a tent nearly on top of mine. My neighbor, a trans-America cyclist, had gotten in after I'd hit the sack. We chatted for quite some time and I cooked pancakes while he went to the laundromat.

I got out of Fairplay at eleven and began the ascent of Hoosier Pass. It did not take me nearly as long to climb the twelve miles as I thought it would. In part because this guy half-way up decided to draft me the rest of the way up. This was particularly annoying because he didn't have any gear, just a carbon fiber bike. He chatted the whole way up and then went back down when we got to the top. The top of the pass was crowded, so I didn't get a good picture, so I just went down to Breck.

I called my friend Heather, who lives in Breckenridge, and we met at the Breck Brewery for lunch.

My riding solo concluded as soon as I got to Heather's house, a not-so-easy climb up Boreas Pass, but it had great views of the mountain. Photos to come.

Day 20 July 11 (Johnson City to Fairplay)

2008-07-12T17:08:00.003-06:00

I began at ten this morning. The ride up Trout Creek Pass was as bad as the Motel owner said it would be. No shoulder and tons of traffic. But it went pretty quickly. After the summit I had a gentle uphill for another twenty miles.

A huge wind kicked up and did not stop for the last fifteen miles. My average speed was 7.5mph, an all-time record low for me. The scenery was great in Park and Summit counties, though, so the headwind didn't bother me.

When I got to Fairplay I stayed at a $10 campsite in back of a motel. Not a bad deal considering a great shower was included. Next door was a "Dinky Dairy and Grill". It smelled too good not to at least go in and investigate. Sure enough, it was great, despite the name. The girl at the counter kept saying, "anything else with that," after I would say the next part of the order. It took about half an hour, but my nearly seven items arrived and didn't last long on the table.

Quick day.

Day 19 July 10 (Salida to Johnson City)

2008-07-12T16:56:00.003-06:00

I joined Joe and Rex at the pancake place right down the street for a little birfday breakfast. Joe skated off when we got back and I headed for the public library. Left Salida (say: sal-eye-da) at one. Very scenic ride, but a slow ride.

The road followed the Arkansas River, and thus had many many rafting company headquarters along the way. Every time I passed one there was a pre-water info talk being given to a large group. I went into Buena Vista, a rafting co. mecca, but it was too crowded to accomplish much. Their rodeo festival was going on. I bailed on the KOA and headed for Johnson City.

I figured that I should get a motel room for my birthday, and so it was. Had a great ice cream cone next to the motel. For dinner I finished off the rest of my six bagels for the afternoon with tomato sauce.

Day 18 July 9 (Sargents to Salida via Monarch Pass)

2008-07-10T11:23:00.006-06:00

It was great not to have to break down camp after the teepee stay. I slowly gathered my stuff and thoughts for the 3,000 ft climb over ten miles. It took me two hours, as expected, of slow plodding up and up.

About 3/4 of the way up an RV squeezed me into a guard rail and I gave him what was on my mind. I rounded the bend and there wasn't his huge RV waiting for me! Needless to say, we had words and lots of them. He never got out and I never got in.
Priceless. Gas-hole.

Anyhoo, when I got to the top of Monarch it felt great and I had tons of energy. I saw this guy (not the RV guy) sitting in a lawn chair with inline skates on reaching into a baby stroller(!?) So, I was thinking, where is this guy going to go with his kid on top of this pass? As I got closer I noticed that there was gear and no toddler inside the stroller. We chatted for over half an hour and decided to meet up at the end of the day. It ended up taking him only thirty minutes longer than me to get down.

The ride down was great. I hooted and hollered much of the way (this time in joy rather than disgust at motorists). Went to the post office and the library. A guy outside of the post office was really chatty about bikes and tandems and ride-to-work stuff. He went on and on about his hardcore lifestyle (he had a pot-belly). Funny how people during my encounters have felt the need to share their more-hardcore-than-you adventure tales. Sir, you might as well be in your RV running me off the road. Couldn't tell you what he did or how or when. Talkers not listeners.

On that note, I had no trouble listening to Joe (the skater) yap away. He never had trouble stopping to seek input or listen for a bit. He talked, but he knew how to listen. A rarity I tell you. As we went to dinner a third guy who was staying that the motel (only my second stay under a roof, and not worth it) tagged along. I really was in the mood to listen to Joe's wacky life and adventures (hiking entire Appalachian trail, skating 3000 miles on perimeter of Australia). I got a fair amount as we stayed a long time at the Mexican restaurant after they heard that tomorrow would be my birthday. Many rounds later I got back to the hotel and got another great night's sleep.

This is Monarch Mt. I was right near the top of this sucker after 3,000 ft of climbing.

This is crazy Joe! San Fran to Illinois by skates :o

Day 17 July 8 (Curicanti Rec area to Sargents)

2008-07-10T11:04:00.005-06:00

Last night was rough. I must have gone to bed with my worrying cap on. I inquired about animals and food storage, but the Ohio native (read Naive) said, "Oh, sweetie, there's not been any problems at our wonderful site." May she be stricken with incontinence for a spell. Chipmunks (Alvin and his pals) can and do cause problems. The short story is that I ended up having to hang my food bags in the bathroom.

But, new day ahead! I tried peanut butter in the granola again (magical energy). I froze my way to Gunnison along the Gunnison River. Pretty ride during which I saw a Great Blue Heron (in Colorado?). No pic though.

Once in Gunnison I stopped at the grocery and the public library--again for only thirty minutes. It is a cruel number indeed. Chatted for a time with a guy going from Indiana University to San Fran. Another trailer-puller. Said going up hill was not fun. He mentioned buffets and eating and eating. I haven't even seen a buffet joint while I've been on the road. I guess that's the Mid-West for you.

As I left Gunni, the storm clouds once again payed me a greeting. The wind blew me off the road a few times (had to be 50-60 mph constant). And then the skies opened up and I had sideways rain. (About the same passage, a trekker said he had to recite over and over, "Do the day, don't let the day do you," from a Stephen King book. I chose to simply keep cursing the storm to no avail.

Finally, I got to Sargents, with no hope of making the two-hour climb up Monarch Pass at 11,000+ ft in this weather or at the late hour. So, for five bucks more I got a teepee!

This was my residence for the evening in Sargents! The teepee was a first for me.

Pretty roomy inside. I should have lit the gas fire pit as it was cold at 8000 ft.

Decided to check out the cafe attached to the campground, cabin place. Not good, but the rain kept on, so I'd have had a rotten wet meal had I cooked. I ended the night by putting my foodbags inside and had a great really long sleep, ah!

Day 16 July 7 (Black Canyon NP to Elk Creek CG)

2008-07-09T15:09:00.002-06:00

Last night it rained off and on for the entirety; it poured at times. For the most part it rained too hard to be soothing, much like a noise machine turned on full volume in the "gentle rain" setting. Fortunately, I didn't have to worry about the food as there were bear boxes--a first. They need more of these bomb-proof things.

As soon as the sun popped out at about eight in the morning I did a garage sale routine where I laid everything out to dry. For some reason I thought that getting a slow start wouldn't be bad because today would not require much time or preparation. Wrong, very wrong.

The day's ride began with a five-mile climb, at the top of which I saw members of a 30-person crew riding a supported cross-country trip (weenies). They waxed on about churches cooking them meals and the like.

When I got the bottom of this climb I had to...(you guessed it) climb again. What am I in Colorado or something? And then the weather turned. Yeah, like Armageddon. I became an icicle. But the sun did come out to warm me up a bit...after an interminable period.

Got to a campground with showers (eight quarters!?) As I got out of the shower, the wind kicked back up and a HUGE storm moved in, but moved right (and by right I mean we got the huge golf-ball sized drops, but only two or three of them) by the waterfront where I camped. I guess I was only due one soaker for the day.

Some photos!

2008-07-09T14:59:00.007-06:00

This is Lizard Head Pass. I camped right over top of this bad beast.

Best scenery so far. View coming over and down Lizard Head.

This was the scene from Ridgway, where I was "stuck" during the July 4 holiday. It was just ten miles to Ouray (the Switzerland of the U.S.).

Day 15 July 6 (Ridgway to Black Canyon NP)

2008-07-08T11:51:00.003-06:00

Quick exit this morning. The ride down to Montrose was a fast 30 miles. I took some time to stop and shoot some pictures. I did my usual grocery routine. I expected an easy cruise right into the park.

Oh, how wrong I was. What my map didn't show was an 8% grade for nearly six miles. I think my bloodsugar was low or something, because I thought I was going to pass out right off of the bike. This happened a few times. I had to stop finally and just sit and try to eat and drink slowly.

When I (after an hour and a half) got to the top I asked the Ranger at the entrance booth if I had any chance of a tent site. Not sure what I'd have done if she said, No. But, there were plenty of sites to have. I snacked a bit, set up shop, and headed to the visitor's center. There I watched the usual "movie" 'bout the park. Boring, but nice to sit and absorb information. As the place closed down, I walked over to the overlook. WOW! It is like a visually accessible, but nearly physically inaccessible Grand Canyon. Steep! I stood there and pondered for quite a long spell.

Day 14 July 5 (Another Rest Day)

2008-07-08T11:47:00.002-06:00

Well, I had to kill time for one more day here in good ole' Ridgway. Slept in until eight-thirty. Got over to the library and was able to spend lots of time given the lack of Saturday patronage. A storm moved in, so I read the entire Wall Street Journal.

After the storm passed I walked over to the park picnic area to spend a few hours planning routes and reading. I had the exact same lunch as yesterday, minus the salsa. Easy day.

Day 13 July 4 ( Rest Day in Ridgway)

2008-07-05T11:28:00.002-06:00

I got up today at seven, much earlier than planned. Made use of the continental breakfast...same ole crap. Checked out and made my way to the grocery. Found some shade and a picnic spot. I made four veggie wraps and read maps. Will return here tomorrow, as I have to kill time during the holiday rush.

Got the the campsite at 4:30, set up and read maps and a book for hours behind my tent (the only shade). The campsite is okay, so I'm glad I stayed in the hotel last night. I look forward to Sunday to head out and hit the road. Next exciting stop will be Black Canyon of the Gunnison Nat'l Park.

Edit: I'm having trouble loading pictures...I will back post those at another library.

Day 12 July 3 (Lizard Head Pass to Ridgway)

2008-07-05T11:03:00.002-06:00

After a welcomed chilly night, I got up late an packed up slowly. I definitely could have spent another night here. Oregon sure has the camping management thing nailed as the hiker/biker guaranteed sites are key. But it is not to be in Colorado.

I deaded out and down to Telluride, a beautiful passage full of snow-capped peaks. The main street of Telluride was crowded with the Plein Air festival (of painters). People were just standing in random places painting a scene. I was like an art class had taken over the town. I made my way through town to the town park/campground, but there were no sites left. I went to the grocery to do my usual fruit routine.

As I left Telluride I stopped at a nice park in Sawpit (what a name). Then I stopped for water (thinking I might need it for my night in the woods). The climb up Dallas Divide lasted for a couple of hours. Unfortunately, I saw no good spots to camp, but I also thought it was too early to stop.

I got all the way to Ridgway by 4:30 and figured I might as well check the hotels. I really didn't want to stop for three nights at the same RV park. So, once again I got the last available (this time a hotel room). I immediately washed my bike clothing and I ended up using an entire bar of soap. I guess I'd only been able to do a marginal job in the shower with Dr. Bronner's--is that stuff really soap? It does seem to be doing a fine job with my cookware cleaning, but my clothes sure held some dirt!

Given my lack of stove options I made some hummous. I stretched out and logged some TV time. It was all crap, even for a Thursday night. I sure don't miss TV. Early to bed.

Day 11 July 2 (NF camp in Stoner to Lizard Head Pass)

2008-07-05T10:34:00.003-06:00

I woke up today at 7:44--it was great to sleep in. Perhaps the sound of the river aided my rest. I packed up slowly and managed to get out by 9:40. Many mosquitoes, though.

I descended what I climbed off route to the campsite, five miles worth. Much of the day after that was a steady uphill battle, mixed in with swarms of flies. Damned horse and cattle. The water at teh campsite was gross. I had to choke down every last sip. By the time I reached Rico, thirty miles later, I was pretty dehydrated. I stopped in a liquor store and bought a gallon of Wal-Mart water. It took over an hour to rehydrate.

On my way up Lizard Head Pass I stopped to chat with two guys who were doing the TransAmerica route, except they were going East to West from Virginia to San Francisco. They were carrying the absolute bare essentials. They said that after the first few days of climbing the steep Appalachians they met some AT hikers who tought them how to cut supplies and weight. Mailed home half their stuff. I told them how the desert might be hard to go through without some food and water. They looked horrified.

The issue I see with how they were travelling is that they were all after speed and biking across the country just to do it rather than to enjoy it. I'm all for their trip, but I'd take a hot meal from my own stove any day over a mile-per-hour speed gain. Weight Nazi-ing is over rated. Self-reliance is much less burdensome on the nerves as well.

Anyhoo, I was almost to the top when I saw them, just the steep section left. So, after I crested the top I quickly came upon 1) amazing scenery, and 2) my campsite for the night. I got the last tentsite! Showers and clean (great tasting) water to boot. Not to mention the huge ridgelines surrounding the campsite, plus another rushing stream less than twenty feet away.

The camp host said I should try the City Park in Telluride for a campsite tomorrow, but it's no guarantee. One day of mystery before I have two nights for the Holiday.

I took a nap for an hour (it felt like five). This was a first because the tent is usually too hot in the afternoon. I don't know if it was the altitude (9,000 ft+) or dehydration or what, but it felt good to get a little mid-day shut-eye. I made macs and cheese for dinner. Not a bad day.

Day 10 July 1 ( Mesa Verde to Nat'l Forest camp near Stoner, CO)

2008-07-05T10:19:00.002-06:00

Today I woke up feeling pretty good. I thought after my conversation last night that I would have good dreams, but none came. In fact, I can't remember having any dreams, good or bad this entire trip. I don't know if fatigue is a factor there or what.

I packed up andthen got my food from the camp store's cooler (again) and had some granola, my b/f mainstay. I headed out and passed my nitwit neighbors, who swore they were hardcore "self-contained" bicycle tourers,but they were lame. They ate all their meals at the partk and bitched and moaned at every turn. I saw them on the dwelling tour yesterday (after talking at length with them the previous night) and they looked at my getup and said, "Hey, look, another cyclist. How far'dya come?" I said, "I'm your neighbor." They: "Oh, oh, right--didn't recognize you." I'm glad they were headed in the opposite direction this morning.

I flew down the four-mile switchbacks to the park entrance. What took me an hour to get up took me less than five minutes to get down! The rest of the way to Cortez was also a breeze. My average was close to 25mph getting to Cortez (that's cookin'). I made my way to the town center and located a really nice library with no time limit (finally). Made a stop at the grocery and did my usual eatin' on fruit in front of the store like a sailer quick to prevent scurvy.

The road out of Cortez climbed 1000ft in less than ten miles--with a headwind. I stopped in the National forest office in Dolores and got some good info and advice about campgrounds. The ranger pushed public campgrounds over private as the scenery would make up for the lacking facilities. He was correct, as my site for the night was great.

After five miles on a rural road in a river valley in the San Juan Range, I found my peaceful site. Quite nice right on the rushing river. Pitched tent and made falafel, the food I had gone longest without that still remained in my satchel. While I ate the camp host allowed me to plug in my batteries for the camera using his RV outlet.

Day 10 mileage total: 471.04 miles

Day 9 June 30 (Mesa Verde Spur tour)

2008-07-01T11:09:00.008-06:00

This morning I did my best to stay in my tent as long as possible, but he sun had other plans for me--I was baked out of the tent at seven-thirty. I got my food from the store's cooler as bears were around. I planned to make a hot breakfast, but the sun was warming things up too fast. Granola would suffice.

I again had a whole bunch of climbing to get to the sites at Mesa Verde. At a stop at the visitor's center I was shocked to learn it was 11:20 and I still had six mile to go before my 12:00 tour ( I forgot my bike computer in my tent). Fortunately, it was all downhill from the VC.

There were sixty (!) people on my first tour, but it really didn't interfere with the experience--shocking considering the place is built into the side of a cliff. Cliff Palace was CRAZY.

I kept trying to imagine what the place would have looked like with people in it. There was so much to see but so little exposure on the tour. I really wanted to stay and peek and poke around, but the tour moved on. This desire, however, was somewhat satisfied during the Balcony House tour, which was nuts. We had to crawl through tunnels to get into the place and climb two large ladders and then crawl again out of the place.

The guide kept saying that something was going on "here" because it was so hard to get in and out. But what was it? The climb out was absolutely hair raising and there were chain railings and linked fences. Trying to picture the original exit was not hard as the hand and foot placements were visible off to the side. It is amazing that the NPS has this site open to the public. The fall off the ladder would have killed.

I was glad I took the day to explore. The way back was a race to beat the thunderstorm. I made it with two miles to go and I raced under an overhang and waited out the storm. I got back at six-thirty, showered and made Moroccan Pilaf (yuk)...supplemented with gorp.

While I prepped my meal I was joined by one of my neighbors, who lives on his 45' sloop in Guatemala. He told me (after I prodded with many questions) about his plans to sail around the world. He went on about how he was going to take five years and enjoy himself. He said that taking things slowly was the only way to go, as he motioned to my bike, leaning next to the picnic table. He was taking four days to see the park (and he was driving). This was the first person on the trip whose stories and utterances were worth listening to. I had no trouble sleeping after talking sailing.

Day 8 June 29 (Durango to Mesa Verde NP)

2008-07-01T10:50:00.010-06:00

Look...a bunny (slope)! On the climb out of Durango.

Opposite Bunny.

Onward, Hogs! They got WET. I waited and stayed dry on the way up to Mesa Verde.

The sunset at Mesa Verde NP campground. The end of a great day.

I woke up today feeling much better that how I left my conscious state last night. I think the lack of bugs at this campsite contributed to the fresh start. Finding a cyclist to reverse my route back to the grocery store was uplifting as well.

I spent a good half hour at the store doing my re-up. Yogurt covered raisins, mmmm. It took me a long time to actually get all of my new food in plastic bags and out of boxes and packaging, etc. When I finished the process the bike was so heavy. But I was energized and looked forward to my long climb out of Durango. And what a climb it was!

But what goes up must come down. In the middle of the downhill I stopped when I spotted a library sign--my thirst for internet so great. But alas, it was Sunday, duh. I noticed that my stop cost me precious time in trying to outrun a large weather system. When I reached the MV Park entrance it poured. But I just waited it out and then began my very steep ascent. One hour for four miles straight up.

When I got to the top I extended my reservation for another night and bought tour tickets (mandatory) for two cliff dwelling sites. Dinner: Mac & Cheese (fresh Tillamook pepper jack & Cheddar!).

Day 7 June 28 (Pagosa Springs to Durango)

2008-07-01T10:19:00.005-06:00

The Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge RR went right through the campsite.

I woke up early today only to go back to sleep until seven as I was still pretty zonked. I didn't make it out until a bit past nine. The first half hour was a climb out of Pagosa Springs and the rest of that hour was cruising--twenty miles worth! At the beginning of the second hour I hit the beginnings of Yellow Jacket Pass, which I was told would hurt (or sting). I stopped for lunch and then began my climb...a long, big bee, indeed.

When I crested the top I expected to descend into Durango, but as I've learned when asking locals (even a cyclist this time), no one yet has given an accurate projection of what's to come. After YJ pass the traffic got really thick, with the shoulder disappearing multiple times. I learned my lesson about Saturday tourist travel. This was my worst day, yet. Seventy miles of freakin' RVs and idiot drivers. I pondered stopping to pick up a jumbo carton of eggs to serve as my ammo, lobbing just slightly in front of me when drivers failed to yield space. Never saw a store.

When I got to Durango a cyclist accosted me, but then gave me good directions away from the highway to my campsite. This guy yacked and yacked and so instead of getting fresh food I just got out of there and made my way to the campsite. It turned out that this guy was full of hot air AND his map followed suit. I passed (!) another cyclist on the way to the campsite who guided me four miles to the actual entrance to the site. He asked me if I wanted to stay on his front lawn, but I was not wild about having to ask for things like RR, water, RR, middle of the night RR, etc. The next morning another cyclist would guide me out using the exact same route (Durango folks are quite friendly).

I found out from my camp neighbors that the Tour of Colorado (10 day affair) ended today. That was neat to hear, but it was also disheartening, because I was passed on the road (opposite direction) by hundreds of cars with bikes atop. I got maybe three waves and one enthusiastic honking. That's it. I have gotten more than that on each of the rest of my days many fold. Maybe they were simply tired...no excuse...I wish them many flats.

Day 6 June 27 Into Colorado

2008-06-27T15:58:00.003-06:00

Yee Haw! Colorado.

Today's ride was zippy. I had some leftover pancakes and some carob energy cubes. The bugs finally got on my nerves and pushed me to get out of camp faster than I wished. I had some great cruising out of Chama and then I hit the "Welcome to Colorful Colorado" sign. From that point on I had rollers all the way into Pagosa Springs.

I checked in at the campsite and immediately headed for the public library. Finally, I had a computer for an hour. Unfortunately, I ran out of time, but did manage to post and add some pics. After my computer action I headed to the grocery store right across from the library. I loaded up and could not wait to have tomato sauce on my pasta (ever since the sighting at the Circle A Ranch in Cuba, NM).

I returned to my bike to pack up and did some eatin' on my fresh fruit and did some route finding. Then I headed back to eat my mini-ravs with tomato sauce...yum! The picture is my typical kitchen spread. There are two bagels (garlic, cheesy bagels).

Overall, today was a great day and a real spirit booster. On to Durango.

Day 5 June 26 Rest Day in Chama

2008-06-27T15:57:00.001-06:00

I slept until 8:30 (!) and went to get my food from the office. It was cold enough for me to wear a hat and get back into the tent. I laid down for a while and read maps. I finally got up for real and lazily made pancakes and hot chocolate. I had leftover pancakes (not a bad thing). I made a few phone calls to try to plan the next few days. Chama was mobbed, so I got nervous about needing reservations in the days ahead.

My big coup was landing a spot for July 4&5. The owner of an RV park was thrilled to give me a "patch of grass" with no parking spot. I'll be shocked if I get a wink of sleep on the night of the Fourth. I called so many places and was laughed at when asking about the Fourth. "Space? On the Fourth of July? Uh, no not since months ago."

During one of my many phone calls, I learned that I can legally camp in any National Forest land, but I would need to bring water and sleep with one eye open (something for which I have no talent). At least I won't have to wander all night begging.

After my morning routines were completed in sloth-like style, I chatted with the RV hostess, who is from South Africa. She told me all about her sons, who (well, two of them) are more adventurous AND ambition than I, as THEY sold everything to take off sailing 'round the Maldives. She offered me their space if I ever made it to Capetown--pure entertainment. Normally I wouldn't have given her one more iota of time than needed, but she was cracking me up (internally), so I had to stay and listen (for nearly an hour). She recommended a local internet cafe for my tech needs.

When I got to the cafe there was no computer, just wifi. The waitress pointed me to the library (even better, I thought). Upon finding the library the attendant informed me that, no, they didn't have internet today, as their router was down. So, back to Carlita's Cafe for some real food, a vegi-wrap. I noticed that patrons were pulling off the tomatoes after the Salmonella scare here in NM. Me? No, I ate my delicious tomatoes.

Now bored, I went to the Visitor's Center to get mileage and map info that I didn't have. And lo and behold, INTERNETS! But only a kiosk. It'd have to do. I later tried the library again to no avail. While there I phoned more campsites to try to land more reservations.

When I got back to the RV park I took a shower, simply to waste time and...since I paid for it...ah. I made falafel, checked more maps, and listened to Bluegrass Music (live and at the Riverside RV Park--so said the poster ad). Not a bad day.

Day 4 June 25 Abiquiu Lake up, up, and up to Chama (no beer, though)

2008-06-27T15:45:00.006-06:00

The view at breakfast was great overlooking the lake. The ride around the lake was scenic, but the water views disappeared quickly. Cliffs appeared in place of the lake and continued for a few hours. I stopped after the first hour at Ghost Ranch, home of Georgia O'Keefe.

The climb out of the canyon was quite scenic, but the sun forbade any picture-taking. I was reminded of something I overheard a visiting European say about New Mexico, "It is the most grand place I've ever been...everying is on such a huge scale." Indeed, it is also hard to photograph.

When I got to camp my hosts allowed me to store my food overnight (for two nights) in their office. No racoons this time!

Narrow Gauge Railroad in Chama.

Historic (but modern) Chama, NM.

In Chama at the RV campsite.

Day 3 June 24 (Cuba up and then down to Abiquiu Lake)

2008-06-27T15:34:00.004-06:00

This was the view from my picnic table as I ate dinner at Abiquiu Lake!

The beginning of today's ride was all downhill, some of which was on the dirt road to the Ranch. The first four hours of today were rollers and steady incline up the mountains. I had a great lunch of Wasa and peanut butter at the tippity top of the climb.

When I stopped at the Ranger Station ( I am so far a big fan of them), I got some great advice. Apparently my DeLorme map is full of misinformation. I would have gone to Echo Amphitheater (marked on my map), but they would not have had water ( I would have been dead). So, they pointed me to Abiquiu Lake. This turned out to be ten or so miles shorter.

I got a great tentsite that had the biggest tree (if you could call it that) and it overlooked the lake...not bad. Brand new shower (I earned it this time) and a great camp (with a "C") hostess.
Dinner: Mashers, refried beans, and fresh avocado. I'm ready for tomorrow.

Day 2 June 23 (Biking to Cuba with neither paddle nor cigar)

2008-06-27T15:24:00.002-06:00

Oy! 8:00 am start and 5:30 pm finish. 7.5 hours on the bike for 71 miles. After last night's adventures, I was surprised to wake at Six. I talked routes with my motorbike neighbor ( you can see him in the pic from day 1) for awhile and then attempted to get all of the ants off of my hanging food. I now wish I had left earlier. It rained a bit before I left, but it was cool for the first couple of hours. The first hour was spent simply climbing over the West Mesa.

I drank a total of two gallons that I had from the start and then filled up for more at the Cuba Ranger station (with 7 miles to go). I am REALLY glad I carried the 16 lbs of H2O.

The scenery today was great for the first four or five hours. After that I was chased for ten miles by biting horseflies. They mysteriously vanished at the Ranger Station...hmm.

Upon arriving at the Circle A Ranch hostel, I was shown around by Kenny, who tended to horses and such. He took me up the the "Little Bunk Room", which was unoccupied. I had the room all to myself. No pictures from today, but early to bed.

Day 1 June 22, 2008 (mini-day to Bernalillo, NM)

2008-06-27T15:11:00.003-06:00

When I left the house there were huge thunderheads moving in and one could see the top of the West Mesa in ABQ literally blowing off. The storm passed to the south just behind me, but it did leave very strong winds in its wake. When the clouds moved past the sun bore down. As it cooked me I kept thinking how glad I was not to be headed all the way to Cuba, NM today. I predict tomorrow will be an oven. After my day today I am still dehydrated and I only went 27 miles.

As for my accomidations at the KOA, I am fairly impressed. Thus far I have four tenting neighbors and the Kamp host has zipped past on his (k)art three times. I decided to take a shower even though I really didn't need to because, after moderate deliberation I concluded I did pay for the shower, so I might as well use it. Shower satisfaction rating: 3--I didn't need it. Prior to my shower I peeled a mango and wolfed it down, yum. Dinner: quinoa + cheese with fresh avocado!

Addendum: In the middle of the night the wind kicked up so much that it pulled two tent stakes clear out of the ground, launching them airbound. I had to form a search party in the morning to find the one that was 20' away.

Rest Day in Chama, NM

2008-06-26T14:25:00.003-06:00

It is day five and I am taking some R&R in Chama. The scenery has been wonderful through northern NM. Yesterday, after camping at Abiquiu Lake, I stopped by Ghost Ranch, Georgia O'Keefe's stompin' grounds. The cliffs that loom above continue for thirty miles.

The first few days (which I will back log later, when I'm not at a visitor center kiosk) were HOT! I drank two gallons of water on each of the first two days. The scenery was pretty nice during the first two days, but nothing compared to the second two. The one exception was the climb up to the Circle A Ranch hostel in Cuba, NM. I would not mind cycling back up there in cooler weather to stay again. Horses ran around and hippies worked and we sat chatting while individuals took turns preparing their respective chow in the huge communal kitchen. I left feeling earthy.

Now on to bigger terrain. I head for Pagosa Springs tomorrow and Durango the next. I made reservations for Mesa Verde National Park, so I look forward to the cliff dwellings, especially in comparison to Bandelier's.

I hope to hit a public library in the next few days to post again.

The Big One (Another Bike Trip)

2008-06-21T16:10:00.003-06:00

So, I still have the bug to do, go, and see more on my bike. I have a tentative plan, which is to start biking north from Albuquerque on June 22. I will continue until Leigh comes and picks me up and takes me to Breckenridge, CO on July 14 or 15. From there we will bike for four or five days in Rocky Mountain National Park or to Steamboat. We then will spend a week with Kevin and MJ (my father and step-mother) in Denver.

I did my best to create a map of the route using Google Maps. The link to this is on the right hand side of this page. Click on the "ABQ up into Colorado" link to go to the map.

I will try to update whenever possible, but other than the public library icons on my bike maps, I don't know how frequently I will have internet access. I debated taking my laptop, but decided against.

High Road to Taos

2008-06-21T15:41:00.003-06:00

After touring in Oregon, I got the itch to do some more. So, we took care of some business for a few days and then set off on June 14. We first drove to Santa Fe and parked at the airport. Then we biked up an up and up to Taos--all 85 miles worth--in twelve brutal hours in 95 degree heat.

The next day we biked around Taos and then rode five miles out of town to a nice campsite on a creek. We decided that the following two days should be spent biking back to Santa Fe rather than attempting the full distance in one day. The irony was that our campsite at Santa Cruz Lake happened to be 1.5 miles down roughly 1,000 ft. So, the final morning began with a 1.5 mile climb at a pitch of 10+%.

(above) Leigh resting after the climb out of Taos.
We both left with mixed feelings about Truchas, NM (above). The high road to Taos is mostly high and difficult because of the climb into Truchas, which never ends. On the way back I stopped pedaling because I was going 47 mph down hill. Truchas also began our paranoid sightings and encounters with dogs who were unleashed.

When we arrived (55 miles later) from Taos to Santa Cruz Lake, we were greeted at 5pm with 90+degrees and a full blasting sun. We constructed a sun shade with our tent fly. The terrorist-esque head accoutrement is because of the many many bugs. We will now carry bug spray on all future bike camping trips :)

(above) Behind my left shoulder is Santa Cruz Lake...way, way down there. This shot was taken after our very hot and sunny morning climb out of the campground.

Oregon Pics

2008-06-18T17:36:00.016-06:00

During the last week of May, Leigh, our friend Christine, and I set out from Astoria, Oregon, headed south on route 101 toward the California border. We cycled 277 miles in five days and took our last day off, in part to rest and celebrate Christine's birthday.

(above) Christine, Leigh, and I, mid-trip.

(above) Ah, finally, semi-blue sky and amazing scenery. So this is why we did this.

(above) after a day of Oregon mist, we took full advantage of the sun and laid out our pseudo-garage sale.

(above) Does this picture convey how wet it was? Leigh is in the tent and Christine (a.k.a. Neon Golden) is washing up at the spigot in the background.

Comin' through!