Bits, Pieces, Hoods, Bikes....

Hi all,
First, before I go any further, before we write about the mundane subject of cycling, congratulations are in order to the first Doctor in the family. For those of you that don’t know, my daughter Amy received her Doctorate of Audiology this past Saturday from Utah State University. There are still busted buttons all over the Spectrum. What can I say, I am a proud papa. So, if you are ever in Arizona, and are in need of clinical advice on hearing, you know who to call. I enclose the following picture as Amy and I ponder the post-graduate life.

Now, to cycling:
Well, the last two weeks has been a mixed bag. There are many subjects to discuss, so, rather than write 5-6 small blog entries, I will give you the news all in one shot. (oh yes, please do check out all the links in this post!)
I find as of late, that I am not logging as many miles this year as last, and that it doesn’t bother me. Yes, I do know the actual number I behind from last year on this date (230 miles), and still it doesn’t bother me. I have finally learned that riding from year to year doesn’t guarantee great miles from year to year. Each year is different; weather, work, projects, and energy level all create variables that I didn’t plan for in January. But, the point of course is to ride. And therein, lies the key.

You never know what you'll see through the lense...

There has been a change in the tone of some of the blogs on my tab list as of late. Alan Barnard’s Blog has taken on a new challenge that of riding bikes for functional purpose. Yes, racing is important, but in today’s world of high fuel costs, riding bikes has taken on a new focus. He is ending his Recumbent Blog, but will be back with a new blog in the near future. Please, take a few moments and read his last post about the functionality of bikes, and how they can benefit our lives and our society.

Sunset from Fernwood...

Vikram, from Calgary, has also taken on a new tone in his writing, and riding. Check out his blog, and learn all about his new bike, the Big Dummy. No, it’s not an insult; it’s the actual model name of a bicycle. A functional bicycle; a bike that can carry a load! A bike that you can be car-free with!
And, in looking at recent posts of mine, I notice a change in tone, too. There are fewer specifics about mileage, more about riding as a whole. I expect that this thread or mindset to continue for a few months, and let’s see where it takes us.

The Barcroft, in need of reflective tape on the fender...

Commuting. I am preparing to increase my commuting. Two factors have increased my thought process towards commuting. First, the price of gas; enough said, it is what it is. Second, is my work schedule; it looks like I will be on day shifts every Thursday and Friday all summer. With that in mind, I will be working my way towards commuting both days, either riding full mileage, or sharing the miles on the new Frontrunner train.
So, I am configuring lighting, checking routes for construction, consulting the train schedule, and establishing a plan.

It's really not a giant light, only a giant picture!

Speaking of riding with a purpose, have you ever taken the two mile challenge? Check out this link, and see if the bike hanging in your garage can make a difference in your life. (And your pocketbook)
That’s all for now. More news as the nice weather continues…
JIm