Dear Fellow Blog Readers,
34solo is on medical leave for 3 days per doctors orders.
Thank you for your continued support and I will be back in the saddle very soon!
Cheers to the 34solo Challenge!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Week Two
Sunday night requires a little more preparation than it use to! Food to pack, clothes to organize, bike to get ready, and weather to check. The biggest news of this car-free journey is that I've decided to change bikes for the commute. My road bike is very light and designed to just ride fast. This is great unless it's 'breezy' or rainy. Now, I need to clarify that Colorado's version of 'breezy' is like Ohio's version of a tornado. If you are on a light bike on a breezy day, you risk literally being lifted up off the ground like the little boy in ET.
So rather than investing in an authentic commuter bike, I am attempting to just work with my Kona Cinder Cone Mountain bike by adjusting a few features. It's a heavier frame and a 'triple' so I have a real 'GRANNY GEAR' for those hills! Today, I learned to swap out my tires and put on 'slicks'. This was quite the pain in the ass. I put this process in the same category as pounding a square peg into a round hole with a handle-less hammer that is too small. I added some new lights and picked up some necessary bike essentials (new socks so I now have five pair- one for each day so as to not have to do laundry every day) and some tire tubes and CO2 cartridges. I also transferred a rack and bike bag for the back so that I don't have to carry a backpack- nice! These items were purchased on my DRIVE into Fort Collins (32 miles) because the local bike shop is closed on Sunday. Quite ironic that I had to drive to the bike shop so that I could go car free. I know I know.... what about the 30 days? I needed some supplies, but now I know to visit the local bike shop on Monday through Saturday. But I'd say driving 32 miles in one week, is still very eco-friendly and quite the accomplishment.
This week- FIVE more days of commuting. The temperature is suppose to drop into the 50's with rain. Shit.
Purchase of the day: Coffee Travel Mug that fits nicely into my water bottle cage! yea baby, coffee!
Concern of the day: Weather and riding a different bike. And of course- food.
If you haven't already- check out the video link above by clicking on 'my ride'. It's a photo journal, and much like me, a work in progress.
Embarking on Week Two of being CAR-FREE and cheers to the 34solo Challenge!
So rather than investing in an authentic commuter bike, I am attempting to just work with my Kona Cinder Cone Mountain bike by adjusting a few features. It's a heavier frame and a 'triple' so I have a real 'GRANNY GEAR' for those hills! Today, I learned to swap out my tires and put on 'slicks'. This was quite the pain in the ass. I put this process in the same category as pounding a square peg into a round hole with a handle-less hammer that is too small. I added some new lights and picked up some necessary bike essentials (new socks so I now have five pair- one for each day so as to not have to do laundry every day) and some tire tubes and CO2 cartridges. I also transferred a rack and bike bag for the back so that I don't have to carry a backpack- nice! These items were purchased on my DRIVE into Fort Collins (32 miles) because the local bike shop is closed on Sunday. Quite ironic that I had to drive to the bike shop so that I could go car free. I know I know.... what about the 30 days? I needed some supplies, but now I know to visit the local bike shop on Monday through Saturday. But I'd say driving 32 miles in one week, is still very eco-friendly and quite the accomplishment.
This week- FIVE more days of commuting. The temperature is suppose to drop into the 50's with rain. Shit.
Purchase of the day: Coffee Travel Mug that fits nicely into my water bottle cage! yea baby, coffee!
Concern of the day: Weather and riding a different bike. And of course- food.
If you haven't already- check out the video link above by clicking on 'my ride'. It's a photo journal, and much like me, a work in progress.
Embarking on Week Two of being CAR-FREE and cheers to the 34solo Challenge!
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Day 5: Celebrating ONE week Car-Free
Bloggers, stay tuned for upcoming video!
Final Numbers for Week:
Total Miles: 82.2
Total time on Bike: 5:55:24 (really? I coldn't ride five more minutes?!)
Total $$$$ spent on BUS FARES: $12
Total # of people on bus for the week: (5- including me)
Commentary on Bus Ride: 5 different drivers= 5 different music genres from Country to Classic Rock and finishing strong on Friday with a book on tape (a real snoozer). The driver was incredibly thrilled I asked the title (which I forget already) and was compelled to follow me off the bus and continue talking to me about this author while I prepared the bike for the final ride home for the week. Disappointing turnout for total number of riders who utilize the 34Xpress Transit. Rumor is they want to shut it down immediately for lack of riders. Stay tuned for the 34Xpress update!
I haven't started my SUV in ONE week, indicating of course ZERO miles driven and hopefully the subtle reduction of my carbon footprint. I've managed to commute using my bike, public transportation, and a little help from my friends. The days have been long and, at times, exhausting. It's an interesting journey though! Thanks for all the support and keep following the BLOG- video to be posted soon.
Celebrating ONE week of being CAR-FREE and Cheers to The 34solo Challenge!
Final Numbers for Week:
Total Miles: 82.2
Total time on Bike: 5:55:24 (really? I coldn't ride five more minutes?!)
Total $$$$ spent on BUS FARES: $12
Total # of people on bus for the week: (5- including me)
Commentary on Bus Ride: 5 different drivers= 5 different music genres from Country to Classic Rock and finishing strong on Friday with a book on tape (a real snoozer). The driver was incredibly thrilled I asked the title (which I forget already) and was compelled to follow me off the bus and continue talking to me about this author while I prepared the bike for the final ride home for the week. Disappointing turnout for total number of riders who utilize the 34Xpress Transit. Rumor is they want to shut it down immediately for lack of riders. Stay tuned for the 34Xpress update!
I haven't started my SUV in ONE week, indicating of course ZERO miles driven and hopefully the subtle reduction of my carbon footprint. I've managed to commute using my bike, public transportation, and a little help from my friends. The days have been long and, at times, exhausting. It's an interesting journey though! Thanks for all the support and keep following the BLOG- video to be posted soon.
Celebrating ONE week of being CAR-FREE and Cheers to The 34solo Challenge!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Day Four: Four Gold Stars Today!
Today was the best riding day of the week. Morning commute is going nicely with extra minutes to spare although it has been chilly and am becoming less enthused about the 4:50 A.M alarm. I chose an alternate route home today, costing an extra 5 miles, 4 monster hills, and about a dozen free range cow farms- but SO worth it for the extra quiet and zen of the country road. Today's greatest accomplishment was naviagting a new route using a satellite map and using landmarks to help stay on course.
Yesterday, as you see by the pictures, I managed to fit in my first official happy hour as a commuter! As you can see (from bottom to top) I had to fix my broken chain upon exiting the establishment- which was quite messy. And I would advise all you children reading this, drinking and riding is NEVER a good idea, especially when clipped in. But the good news is, I arrived safely.
Total Numbers for the week:
Total Miles- 67.1
Total time on Bike: 4 hours, 39 minutes
Total Happy Hours: 1
Total Bike Issues: 1 (chain fell off)
Best Moment: realizing I saw both the sun rise and set while on my bike- long day but very cool.
Concerns: 30% chance of rain tomorrow and very tired.
Today's Reward: Eggplant Parm and Red Wine
Cheers to the Four Gold Stars and 34solo Challenge!
Yesterday, as you see by the pictures, I managed to fit in my first official happy hour as a commuter! As you can see (from bottom to top) I had to fix my broken chain upon exiting the establishment- which was quite messy. And I would advise all you children reading this, drinking and riding is NEVER a good idea, especially when clipped in. But the good news is, I arrived safely.
Total Numbers for the week:
Total Miles- 67.1
Total time on Bike: 4 hours, 39 minutes
Total Happy Hours: 1
Total Bike Issues: 1 (chain fell off)
Best Moment: realizing I saw both the sun rise and set while on my bike- long day but very cool.
Concerns: 30% chance of rain tomorrow and very tired.
Today's Reward: Eggplant Parm and Red Wine
Cheers to the Four Gold Stars and 34solo Challenge!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Day Three: Resolution
There is something about being a psychologist that suggests this compelling need to resolve any internal conflict that exists. Moreover, there is something about being a competitive psychologist that borderlines just plain madness. Early on I outlined my challenge. I prepared a roadmap of how to accomplish the stated challenge. I never developed a Plan A, B, C, D, or E and F in case I didn't meet any of the challenge goals or objectives. I did, however, talk a bit globally about what I was trying to accomplish with my Big Idea.
I've re-visisted that early Blog to remind myself of the bigger picture. In the midst of some very incredibly difficult challenges (like the logistics of wardrobe, hygiene, FOOD, mother nature's beastly elements, etc.) I've had to regroup. What am I trying to accomplish? What are the short and long-term goals? I initially said that I wanted to be less dependent on my vehicle and that I wanted to re-define the landscape of my day. Is it really about mileage or time? Maybe. Maybe not. I have accumulated over 40 miles and almost 3 hours of pure road bike seat time in just 3 days. I haven't started my SUV since Saturday. I have been on my bike as early as 5:30 A.m. and have been early to work for 3 consecutive days. I haven't had one person say that I smell.
Yesterday, I felt defeated. I felt that I outlined exactly how the challenge would play out. But I never really kept my eyes on the prize in terms of the ultimate goal.
Today, I saw the sun RISE and SET from the seat of my road bike. Somewhere in the middle, life happened.
Tomorrow, mostly sunny with updated miles and times, and a slight chance of life's challenges.
Cheers to resolution and the 34solo Challenge!
I've re-visisted that early Blog to remind myself of the bigger picture. In the midst of some very incredibly difficult challenges (like the logistics of wardrobe, hygiene, FOOD, mother nature's beastly elements, etc.) I've had to regroup. What am I trying to accomplish? What are the short and long-term goals? I initially said that I wanted to be less dependent on my vehicle and that I wanted to re-define the landscape of my day. Is it really about mileage or time? Maybe. Maybe not. I have accumulated over 40 miles and almost 3 hours of pure road bike seat time in just 3 days. I haven't started my SUV since Saturday. I have been on my bike as early as 5:30 A.m. and have been early to work for 3 consecutive days. I haven't had one person say that I smell.
Yesterday, I felt defeated. I felt that I outlined exactly how the challenge would play out. But I never really kept my eyes on the prize in terms of the ultimate goal.
Today, I saw the sun RISE and SET from the seat of my road bike. Somewhere in the middle, life happened.
Tomorrow, mostly sunny with updated miles and times, and a slight chance of life's challenges.
Cheers to resolution and the 34solo Challenge!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Day Two: Discouragement
If you don't live in Colorado, you might not have known that we had wind gusts of up to 40 MPH today There was a high wind advisory where large trucks and semi's were instructed to avoid highways.
So here is your update:
Morning commute is coming along nicely- up at 4:50 a.m and on the road by 5:30 to make the bus. It's been pleasant and great way to begin the day with a mere 7 miles under your belt. Met an interesting guy on the bus who was looking for work and had all sorts of questions about the economy and where to find decent work.
Throughout the day, I checked on the weather and walked outside about an hour before I was to hit the road. At the end of the day, as my new routine is, I changed and got ready to hit the highway. No less than 5 people asked if I wanted a ride, which I declined. As I opened the door, I was pushed back by the wind. It actually made me step back into the brick wall of the building. I realized quickly I should NOT have unzipped my sleeves, nor should I have chosen shorts rather than long pants. At that moment, I decided to ride to the bus stop and take the bus back INTO Loveland, and then ride the remaining 5 miles home.
Except the 40 MPH gusts didn't think that was a good idea. I didn't even make it out into the parking lot before a gust of wind came from my left (the north) and absolutely almost lifted me right up off my seat. Another one came along and pushed me into the curb. Clearly, there is a saftey hazard here. In fact, there were large cardboard boxes flying across the highway.
So, I took a ride home.
Question of the day- Is it really Car-Free or Car Pool that I have going on?
The grandiose of all grand stupid moments of the day- Attempted to take the mountain bike out this evening to stretch the legs, only to slip into the stream of water- both feet submerged, absolutely soaking my ONLY pair of riding shoes.
Feelings of the day- discouraged. disappointed. disenchanted.
My legs are fatigued. My 'lady parts' hurt from the seat. I have realized I need a Plan B, and probably a Plan C and D. And F, just for good measure.
So in the words of Forest Gump, 'that's all I have to say about that.'
Tomorrow is a new day and (half-heartedly) cheers to that new day and the 34solo challenge.
So here is your update:
Morning commute is coming along nicely- up at 4:50 a.m and on the road by 5:30 to make the bus. It's been pleasant and great way to begin the day with a mere 7 miles under your belt. Met an interesting guy on the bus who was looking for work and had all sorts of questions about the economy and where to find decent work.
Throughout the day, I checked on the weather and walked outside about an hour before I was to hit the road. At the end of the day, as my new routine is, I changed and got ready to hit the highway. No less than 5 people asked if I wanted a ride, which I declined. As I opened the door, I was pushed back by the wind. It actually made me step back into the brick wall of the building. I realized quickly I should NOT have unzipped my sleeves, nor should I have chosen shorts rather than long pants. At that moment, I decided to ride to the bus stop and take the bus back INTO Loveland, and then ride the remaining 5 miles home.
Except the 40 MPH gusts didn't think that was a good idea. I didn't even make it out into the parking lot before a gust of wind came from my left (the north) and absolutely almost lifted me right up off my seat. Another one came along and pushed me into the curb. Clearly, there is a saftey hazard here. In fact, there were large cardboard boxes flying across the highway.
So, I took a ride home.
Question of the day- Is it really Car-Free or Car Pool that I have going on?
The grandiose of all grand stupid moments of the day- Attempted to take the mountain bike out this evening to stretch the legs, only to slip into the stream of water- both feet submerged, absolutely soaking my ONLY pair of riding shoes.
Feelings of the day- discouraged. disappointed. disenchanted.
My legs are fatigued. My 'lady parts' hurt from the seat. I have realized I need a Plan B, and probably a Plan C and D. And F, just for good measure.
So in the words of Forest Gump, 'that's all I have to say about that.'
Tomorrow is a new day and (half-heartedly) cheers to that new day and the 34solo challenge.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Day ONE!
My faith in young people has been restored (momentarily of course). Meet pleasant and ultra positive young man on the street corner this afternoon. I asked him why the sign and he said, "for happiness I guess." Really? I like it and this is exactly why I'm riding my bike to and from work, to capture the essence of the characters......hopefully the up and coming young people who want to make the world a little better. So, cheers to Honk 4 Happiness!
On to the numbers for the day:
Total Mileage: 27.1
Total Time to Ride Home: 1 hour and 44 minutes. UGH
Average Speed: 15.5 MPH
Wind Gust: 20 MPH
Number of meetings I almost missed because I didn't drive to work: 2 (thank you to generous colleagues for the lift!)
Number of times I had to go to my 'Happy Place' on the ride home: 3
Thought of the Day: The wind is not my friend.
Concern of the Day: I don't have enough food.
Observation of the Day: A watched pot doesn't boil just as staring at the odometer doesn't get you home any faster.
Stupid Moment of the Day: I didn't leave my work shoes AT work! No sense carrying them in a backpack To and From work- why not just leave them?
The morning ride in was incredibly pleasant, and arrived to work early. The ride home was challenging. The wind was so strong if I were wearing a long flowing skirt (not an actual reality of course) I would have blown away. My backpack was so heavy that, at one point, I almost tossed my shoes into the field alongside the highway. I've been known to do this- throw things out of my pack to lighten the load or leave my pack next to a tree and finish the hike. Besides, they have a cracked sole anyway. But I didn't toss 'em. I persevered carrying my shoes with a cracked sole.
Onto my happy places. The first was a vision of me swimming in a giant bowl of chocolate ice cream. whoa! The second was winning the lottery and buying World Peace. The third, well I can't share that in my Blog.
Weather forecast for tomorrow: 30% chance of rain with enormous wind gusts and potential thunderstorms. Yea, that'll suck.
For all you new readers out there, Cheers to "Honk for Happiness" and the 34solo Challenge!
On to the numbers for the day:
Total Mileage: 27.1
Total Time to Ride Home: 1 hour and 44 minutes. UGH
Average Speed: 15.5 MPH
Wind Gust: 20 MPH
Number of meetings I almost missed because I didn't drive to work: 2 (thank you to generous colleagues for the lift!)
Number of times I had to go to my 'Happy Place' on the ride home: 3
Thought of the Day: The wind is not my friend.
Concern of the Day: I don't have enough food.
Observation of the Day: A watched pot doesn't boil just as staring at the odometer doesn't get you home any faster.
Stupid Moment of the Day: I didn't leave my work shoes AT work! No sense carrying them in a backpack To and From work- why not just leave them?
The morning ride in was incredibly pleasant, and arrived to work early. The ride home was challenging. The wind was so strong if I were wearing a long flowing skirt (not an actual reality of course) I would have blown away. My backpack was so heavy that, at one point, I almost tossed my shoes into the field alongside the highway. I've been known to do this- throw things out of my pack to lighten the load or leave my pack next to a tree and finish the hike. Besides, they have a cracked sole anyway. But I didn't toss 'em. I persevered carrying my shoes with a cracked sole.
Onto my happy places. The first was a vision of me swimming in a giant bowl of chocolate ice cream. whoa! The second was winning the lottery and buying World Peace. The third, well I can't share that in my Blog.
Weather forecast for tomorrow: 30% chance of rain with enormous wind gusts and potential thunderstorms. Yea, that'll suck.
For all you new readers out there, Cheers to "Honk for Happiness" and the 34solo Challenge!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
The Final Countdown
Welcome Back Blog Readers!
The final countdown to The 34solo Challenge is underway! As spring break slowly creeps toward its final closure, the swimsuit tucked away neatly in its place, and memories of time well spent with family and friends linger, I must carefully shift my attention forward to the looming challenge that awaits. Much has happened since I last wrote. I have been lounging in the sun, lurking in the cupboards for snacks, and liberally consuming the Almighty Fat Tire like I was competing for the grand title of Sloth of the Year. It's true- I have the sun wrinkles and love handles to prove it.
But let's take a moment to revisit the 34solo challenge. Beginning tomorrow, I am committed to going CAR-FREE for 30 days. This requires a bicycle commute to work (mixed in with the saving grace of the 34Xpress transit) of 34.6 miles each day. My ultimate plan is to not drive my SUV for 30 days. I have resolved using the bus transit in the mornings as my work day starts very early- 7:15. This still requires a little over 5 miles on the bike as I have to ride to the bus stop (as early as 5:45 A.M) and from the final bus stop into work. The grand total being just over 23 miles each day. But I'm feverishly committed to riding home each day (17.3 miles). You ask, "Why in the world are you doing this?" My answer is simple: I am attempting to re-define the landscape of my day in an eco-friendly way. The benefits are enormous- general fitness and wellness, along with reducing my carbon footprint. I am also looking to capture those small details that we fail to see in the midst of our hurried culture.
The logistics of this challenge has become astronomical. I have across town meetings throughout the week that I must make arrangements for. The wardrobe and hygiene factor alone has consmmed most of my planning. In fact, my attempt to cheat by taking some clothes in this past weekend was thwarted by not being able to get into the building. DAMN IT! So I must pack my work clothes. And my lunch. And my essentials. And my rain jacket.
I've become worried about the elements. I anticipate rain, snow, and wind. I hear the wind is enough to make the strongest of men wince. In fact, there are naysayers among us. Just yesterday, someone said I couldn't do it. For those who have remained positive- thank you. For those glass-half-emptied people- boo hiss. For those who are indifferent- well, get passionate about something!!!!
I've spent another $80 at the bike shop. I almost spent $500 on a steel framed bike advertised on Craigslist (I love you Craigslist!) that would prevent me from being carried away by the winds. I've become worried about how my bike will hold up in the elements and on the front of a bus going well over 60 MPH. I'm considering investing in an authentic commuter or touring bike. But for now, I'm sticking to my Rocky Mountain Solo until I fly fly away...or crash in the downpour.
Accomplishment of the Day:
Put the computer on my bike for mileage and speed! Did you know that 82 inches converted in millimeters is 2082.8? Don't ever say you don't need math in life! Only broke one piece, with swearing, but still no throwing!
Concern of the Day:
Making two out of building meetings tomorrow.
Monday's lunch.
Tuesday's lunch.
Wednesday's lunch.
Thursday's lunch.
Friday's lunch and happy hour.
For those of you still reading- The Countdown is officially ON and Cheers to the 34solo Challenge!
The final countdown to The 34solo Challenge is underway! As spring break slowly creeps toward its final closure, the swimsuit tucked away neatly in its place, and memories of time well spent with family and friends linger, I must carefully shift my attention forward to the looming challenge that awaits. Much has happened since I last wrote. I have been lounging in the sun, lurking in the cupboards for snacks, and liberally consuming the Almighty Fat Tire like I was competing for the grand title of Sloth of the Year. It's true- I have the sun wrinkles and love handles to prove it.
But let's take a moment to revisit the 34solo challenge. Beginning tomorrow, I am committed to going CAR-FREE for 30 days. This requires a bicycle commute to work (mixed in with the saving grace of the 34Xpress transit) of 34.6 miles each day. My ultimate plan is to not drive my SUV for 30 days. I have resolved using the bus transit in the mornings as my work day starts very early- 7:15. This still requires a little over 5 miles on the bike as I have to ride to the bus stop (as early as 5:45 A.M) and from the final bus stop into work. The grand total being just over 23 miles each day. But I'm feverishly committed to riding home each day (17.3 miles). You ask, "Why in the world are you doing this?" My answer is simple: I am attempting to re-define the landscape of my day in an eco-friendly way. The benefits are enormous- general fitness and wellness, along with reducing my carbon footprint. I am also looking to capture those small details that we fail to see in the midst of our hurried culture.
The logistics of this challenge has become astronomical. I have across town meetings throughout the week that I must make arrangements for. The wardrobe and hygiene factor alone has consmmed most of my planning. In fact, my attempt to cheat by taking some clothes in this past weekend was thwarted by not being able to get into the building. DAMN IT! So I must pack my work clothes. And my lunch. And my essentials. And my rain jacket.
I've become worried about the elements. I anticipate rain, snow, and wind. I hear the wind is enough to make the strongest of men wince. In fact, there are naysayers among us. Just yesterday, someone said I couldn't do it. For those who have remained positive- thank you. For those glass-half-emptied people- boo hiss. For those who are indifferent- well, get passionate about something!!!!
I've spent another $80 at the bike shop. I almost spent $500 on a steel framed bike advertised on Craigslist (I love you Craigslist!) that would prevent me from being carried away by the winds. I've become worried about how my bike will hold up in the elements and on the front of a bus going well over 60 MPH. I'm considering investing in an authentic commuter or touring bike. But for now, I'm sticking to my Rocky Mountain Solo until I fly fly away...or crash in the downpour.
Accomplishment of the Day:
Put the computer on my bike for mileage and speed! Did you know that 82 inches converted in millimeters is 2082.8? Don't ever say you don't need math in life! Only broke one piece, with swearing, but still no throwing!
Concern of the Day:
Making two out of building meetings tomorrow.
Monday's lunch.
Tuesday's lunch.
Wednesday's lunch.
Thursday's lunch.
Friday's lunch and happy hour.
For those of you still reading- The Countdown is officially ON and Cheers to the 34solo Challenge!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Spring Break!
34solo is on vacation!Stop by again after April 8th for updates leading up the the 34solo challenge kickoff on April 12th!
Just for fun- Can anyone guess the location of the above picture?
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Recovery Day
In the spirit of honesty, it felt really weird driving my car into work today. I'm not sure exactly why because it has only been one day. It's just that so many things were running through my mind while driving in. For example, I looked at my gas gauge (less than 3/4) and wondered if I could make it through tomorrow, how long can I go without getting gas? I mean this is a real question for me. So I've decided to add some other numbers into my blog. I'm going to track how many total miles I drive on the weekends and all the numbers related to gas comsumption. I'm hoping that once I start consistently, it will be weeks before I need to hit the pump (referring to gas of course).
Other things running through my mind were the road lanes and the color of the sky. Does it look like rain? Why do people drive so fast?
Best part of my day- My colleagues stopping by to see if I rode in. Actually, the not-so sly peeks into my office to see if the bike was there. That was pretty cool.
Question of the day- What's your Blog address?
Disappointment of the day- The Blog is blocked on our network.
Observation of the day- Given the hail coming down, glad I didn't start my 30 days yet!
Things to do- Face my fear and put the computer on my bike. I can't calculate my data without it.
Countdown: 11 days 'til the Challenge!
Cheers to my added Blog followers and the 34solo Experience!
Other things running through my mind were the road lanes and the color of the sky. Does it look like rain? Why do people drive so fast?
Best part of my day- My colleagues stopping by to see if I rode in. Actually, the not-so sly peeks into my office to see if the bike was there. That was pretty cool.
Question of the day- What's your Blog address?
Disappointment of the day- The Blog is blocked on our network.
Observation of the day- Given the hail coming down, glad I didn't start my 30 days yet!
Things to do- Face my fear and put the computer on my bike. I can't calculate my data without it.
Countdown: 11 days 'til the Challenge!
Cheers to my added Blog followers and the 34solo Experience!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
View of the Day
To all 5 of my BLOG followers, here is your daily update:Number of Miles completed on bike today- 23.3
Time I got up- 5:05 A.M
Time I left the house- 5:46
Time I almost missed the bus- 6:18
Number of times I embarrassed myself- 2
Length of time it took me to get home- 1.5 hours
Number of beers- 3
Number of times I second guessed my challenge- none
As you see to the right, this was the best view of my day. You gotta love a little VISION with Nelson Mandela and the Rocky Mountain solo. That might also be an IQ test sitting on my desk- ok, coming out part two- I'm a geek. If you can't read it, Mandela says, "There is No Easy Walk to Freedom Anywhere." Oh how true that is......
Funny story of the morning ride in- I am, on ONE cup of coffee, pedaling into the wind to the bus stop in the dark. I'm pedalling and going nowhere. I'm winded. I'm cold. Need better gloves and ear muffs. I'm holding my lane, lights flashing, and realize I under-estimated my time by 10 minutes. I pedal faster, but go no faster. I'm cold. If it weren't for my brain, the wind would blow right through one ear to the other. I'm getting a headache from the wind. Need coffee. I approach the turn and see a bus pulling in ..... and around. Shit. There it is. I'm now chasing the bus. Pedaling.... my heart hurts. I'm going to miss the bus. My ONE goal today is to make this bus. I'm going to miss it. I plan out my blog- missed bus. I keep pedaling. I see it across the way, I want to scream.... WAIT!!!!!!!! It keeps going. I turn the corner and see the bus stop. Another car awaits. "Did I miss it?" I ask. "That was the Super Shuttle. The 34 Xpress hasn't come yet." What? I'm chasing the wrong bus. So I breathe...and get cold. The bus is 10 minutes late. It finally arives and another person got on. I look at the rack on the front. Huh? I have no idea. Imagine a woman, staring down at you, motioning and mouthing something you don't understand, I motion back to her in confusion. I just don't know. She gets up, pushes a lot of buttons that sound like 'shhhh' and 'psssst' and she exits the bus. Oh now I've done it. I've pissed off the bus driver on my first day. I stand back. She man-handles the bike- I cringe- and she puts it up and slams the bar down. "Let's go," she says. "Um, is that going to stay?" I ask. "I haven't lost one yet!" she replied. Good to know.
Observation of the day- Office is a little crowded with the bike.
Thought of the day- I need to either friend a psychic or a meteorologist- still not sure.
Moment of clarity for the day- I'm a lone minnow in a sea of sharks.
Statement of the day- (from bus driver) I've been driving this route since it started, and you are the second person I picked up from this bus stop.
Again, to all 5 of my blog followers.............
Thanks and Cheers to the 34solo Experience!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
The Panic.
I suppose it's a bad start to your journey when you have to borrow the $2 bus fare. I'm not letting that get me down though. I'm plugging along and right on schedule. Tomorrow is the test run for leaving my SUV at home in the driveway while I head off to work. I will need to be on my bike and on the road by 5:45 A.M to catch the 6:15 A.M bus into Greeley. (Yes, I'm taking the bus in my trial run.) I've done a lot of planning for this so far, but I seem to have overlooked one of the most important details- Where IS the early morning Bus Stop? And, How the hell do I get the bike on the rack when it stops? I'm banking on an empty bus with an incredibly bored driver.
Some of these details are getting me down a bit. Perhaps this is a time where I need to come out in my Blog. So, here goes...... I happen to like pressed pants. It's true- I don't like to be wrinkled.
Whew. I feel better. I'm really being vulnerable here, I just ironed a pair of dress pants, and tucked them away ever so neatly in my backpack. The odds of them staying that way are slim to none. I'm working through it. I also pulled out two left shoes to pack, and THANK the high heavens I caught it in time b/c that would have been what we 'in the Biz' call a sick day.
So, let's recap. I have my $2 bus fare. I've just come out to all my bloggers- I prefer wrinkle free. I don't know exactly where I'm headed or how exactly to put the bike on the bus. I have an 8:00 a.m meeting. Did I mention that?
I still have to pump up my tires and get my water bottles ready- what about breakfast? Do my lights work? I should take a lock- oh that's heavy. What am I going to lock my bike too- A chair in my office? That's silly, but think about it, how silly would it look for someone to be riding a bike dragging a chair behind them? I think I need a night cap. I have to be up and ready by 5:30, give or take 15 minutes to walk in circles. I should definitely limit myself to ONE nightcap.
In the midst of panic, I say Cheers to the 34solo experience!
Some of these details are getting me down a bit. Perhaps this is a time where I need to come out in my Blog. So, here goes...... I happen to like pressed pants. It's true- I don't like to be wrinkled.
Whew. I feel better. I'm really being vulnerable here, I just ironed a pair of dress pants, and tucked them away ever so neatly in my backpack. The odds of them staying that way are slim to none. I'm working through it. I also pulled out two left shoes to pack, and THANK the high heavens I caught it in time b/c that would have been what we 'in the Biz' call a sick day.
So, let's recap. I have my $2 bus fare. I've just come out to all my bloggers- I prefer wrinkle free. I don't know exactly where I'm headed or how exactly to put the bike on the bus. I have an 8:00 a.m meeting. Did I mention that?
I still have to pump up my tires and get my water bottles ready- what about breakfast? Do my lights work? I should take a lock- oh that's heavy. What am I going to lock my bike too- A chair in my office? That's silly, but think about it, how silly would it look for someone to be riding a bike dragging a chair behind them? I think I need a night cap. I have to be up and ready by 5:30, give or take 15 minutes to walk in circles. I should definitely limit myself to ONE nightcap.
In the midst of panic, I say Cheers to the 34solo experience!
Monday, March 29, 2010
The Logistics of Going GREEN
Today I scoped out ....ok stalked..... a bus transit called the 34 Xpress. Who knew a bus runs the east/west route from Greeley to Loveland? This is excellent news for me because I've just incorporated a whole new level of creative commuting. This could be a nice feature in the rare case of torrential downpours when I'm just...... not that committed. So the best part of this transit system is that, while it doesn't go the entire way, it covers a bulk of the journey. Essentially, I could ride my bike (in an unmotivated, ill, or weather battered state) to the bus stop about 5 miles away. I could theoretically pay $2.00 for a ride to a bus stop just a few miles away from work. And on the way home, if I happen to find myself bellied up to a bar for happy hour, rather than risking life and limb, I could get a partial ride home. Now, there is STILL riding here people, I'm NOT slacking before I even get started. I'm just tickled that I have options.
So in researching this transit, I find out it's at risk for being shut down. Why? Lack of commutters. I can verify this because I actually stalked the bus stop this morning to check it's scheduled stop time. After being a few minutes late, this 34 Xpress transit bus went scurrying by.... EMPTY. Later in the day, I called the Transit, because clearly I had nothing else better to do. I asked the guy how long the 34 Xpress was going to be around. He said it's a government project and they re-evaluate it every year to determine if they have enough interest to keep the contract. The 34 Xpress is due for its yearly review next month. I asked him how busy they were and he said it depends on who you talk to- that some people ride every day while others think it's a waste of time, money, and gas to drive around empty buses. But, on the bright side, he guaranteed it would run until July 31st. But that was it. In fact, he discouraged me from getting the monthly pass. In his words, "I'd hate for you to be sitting there looking at a pretty piece of paper that's useless."
In my efforts to enlighten him, I shared with him my upcoming adventure and told him about the Blog. His mood lifted ever so lightly. So I told him I would give a shout out to the 34 Xpress Transit tonight in my blog. Shout Out! So now I feel obligated to get a ride every so often.... you know...just to keep the poor thing running.....
Tonight, I put the front/rear lights and extra water bottle cage on my bike. Lost patience with the computer.... tomorrow is a new day though. Swore only once. Didn't throw any parts. Leaving the car home on Wednesday for a partial commute test run- try out the bus on the way to work and ride solo home.
Cheers to the 34solo Experience!
So in researching this transit, I find out it's at risk for being shut down. Why? Lack of commutters. I can verify this because I actually stalked the bus stop this morning to check it's scheduled stop time. After being a few minutes late, this 34 Xpress transit bus went scurrying by.... EMPTY. Later in the day, I called the Transit, because clearly I had nothing else better to do. I asked the guy how long the 34 Xpress was going to be around. He said it's a government project and they re-evaluate it every year to determine if they have enough interest to keep the contract. The 34 Xpress is due for its yearly review next month. I asked him how busy they were and he said it depends on who you talk to- that some people ride every day while others think it's a waste of time, money, and gas to drive around empty buses. But, on the bright side, he guaranteed it would run until July 31st. But that was it. In fact, he discouraged me from getting the monthly pass. In his words, "I'd hate for you to be sitting there looking at a pretty piece of paper that's useless."
In my efforts to enlighten him, I shared with him my upcoming adventure and told him about the Blog. His mood lifted ever so lightly. So I told him I would give a shout out to the 34 Xpress Transit tonight in my blog. Shout Out! So now I feel obligated to get a ride every so often.... you know...just to keep the poor thing running.....
Tonight, I put the front/rear lights and extra water bottle cage on my bike. Lost patience with the computer.... tomorrow is a new day though. Swore only once. Didn't throw any parts. Leaving the car home on Wednesday for a partial commute test run- try out the bus on the way to work and ride solo home.
Cheers to the 34solo Experience!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Show me the Money!
Purchased Today at Performance in Fort Collins:
Riding Tights (for those crappy days) $89 / less 15% CLEARANCE yea! $59.00
Reflecting Tape (for backpack) $5.99
Wireless Computer for $39.99 (no cadence but also on CLEARANCE) $19.99
Lights $19.99
Pedals (platform w/clips) $ 39.99
Water Bottle Cage (silver) $9.99
Grand Total: $ 155.89
Random Thoughts today:
It's expensive to ride.
You shouldn't take pictures WHILE you ride.
People who don't ride think you are crazy when you do ride.
You should be careful when packing your bag so that you don't accidentally puncture one of your CO2 cylinder cartridges. That sucked.
How do I run errands? How do I stop to get dog food on the way home?
How do I get people to read this stupid BLOG?
For those of you who do- thanks!
Cheers to the 34solo experience!
Riding Tights (for those crappy days) $89 / less 15% CLEARANCE yea! $59.00
Reflecting Tape (for backpack) $5.99
Wireless Computer for $39.99 (no cadence but also on CLEARANCE) $19.99
Lights $19.99
Pedals (platform w/clips) $ 39.99
Water Bottle Cage (silver) $9.99
Grand Total: $ 155.89
Random Thoughts today:
It's expensive to ride.
You shouldn't take pictures WHILE you ride.
People who don't ride think you are crazy when you do ride.
You should be careful when packing your bag so that you don't accidentally puncture one of your CO2 cylinder cartridges. That sucked.
How do I run errands? How do I stop to get dog food on the way home?
How do I get people to read this stupid BLOG?
For those of you who do- thanks!
Cheers to the 34solo experience!
Test Run
Great Ride today! 17 miles in a little over an hour. Not bad for an easily distracted novice. It's a bit sketchy at times with intense traffic volume and passing semi trailers. Felt the smog fill my lungs as traffic got heavier. 
No bike problems, beautiful sunny day, ready to get started! As you can see, had a Shel Silverstein moment- found a place where the sidewalk really does end.
No bike problems, beautiful sunny day, ready to get started! As you can see, had a Shel Silverstein moment- found a place where the sidewalk really does end. 
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Lesson One: Know what you have.
I suppose when I originally bought my first road bike, I never anticipated that I would have the urge to commute to work. Otherwise, I would have purchased a steel frame that had bike rack options. Apparently, while standing in the bike shop all of those months ago, my eyes glassed over with the thought of carbon fiber parts. So that is what I have. And that is why I can't put a rack on my bike. Carbon fiber can't hold the extra weight, which means No extra shoes.... no extra food..... no extra....ANYTHING. Unless I wear a back pack. Well.....shit. I spent most of my day today shopping for rack systems that would help me with this crazy idea. Now that I know what I have, I need to drop back and punt.
Backpack it is.
Tomorrow- First ride ONE way, travelling East to West. If the winds are anything like they were today, I'll probably fly away like the Balloon Boy. I better bring a flashlight- who knows how long it will take.
Backpack it is.
Tomorrow- First ride ONE way, travelling East to West. If the winds are anything like they were today, I'll probably fly away like the Balloon Boy. I better bring a flashlight- who knows how long it will take.
The BIG idea.
I am not entirely crazy. I am only moderately so. I'm what you call 'a BIG idea person'. BIG ideas come to me as readily as apples on an apple tree or waves in an ocean or beer from a brewery. These BIG ideas are essentially a non-stop flood of random thoughts that prevent me from concentrating on any one thing for too long. Some people don't have them. They have what you call the 'How are you going to do that?' kind of brain. They ask the detail questions. I usually don't hang out much with those kind of people. They make me nervous.
So what's the story behind this Blog? Well, I had a BIG idea the other day as I was sitting in my office that I wanted to just ride my bike home. I had been sitting most of the day and with waves of stress flowing into my office, had this sudden urge to just bolt. I had this feeling of needing fresh air and feeling a breeze on my face. I had this desire to just ride toward the mountains. But I couldn't bolt because I need my job. I actually like my job. It's a job that I will probably be at for the next...oh... 20 + years. This is a depressing thought actually. So the idea came to me that I need to change the landscape of my day. I mean, I can't NOT work. But maybe I could incorporate riding into my day, and maybe- JUST MAYBE- I could leave my gas-guzzling SUV at home.
Is it possible? Is it possible to leave my house in the early morning on a bike, and come home in the late afternoon on a bike? All the while........ keeping my day job? As I thought of this, visions of flat tires and rain and helmet hair danced through my head. Work starts early- 7:15. I live 17.3 miles from work. The single, most direct path between home and work is a highway. Highway 34 to be exact. For the past 6 months, I've periodically seen a lone rider making the commute from west to east. I'd see him at different points along the way, and admire his stamina and courage. I often wondered where he lived, and where his final destination was. I haven't seen him in a while, but if you are HIM and have discovered this blog, shoot me an email. Would love to chat....
Anyway, let's take a closer look at the challenge.
I live in Loveland, Colorado and work in Greeley. The total one way distance is 17.30 miles. There is one direct route- U.S Route 34. This is an east-west highway that runs for 1,222 miles from the western suburbs of Chicago to north-central Colorado. It runs through Rocky Mountain National Park, where it is known as Trail Ridge Road and reaches a whopping 12,183 feet, making it the highest paved through highway in the United States. Very cool.
It's a pretty commute really because you drive toward the sunrise every morning, and head home to spectacular mountain views. Now let's look at the negatives here.
U.S Route 34 doesn't have a designated bike lane. There is a short stretch of a bike trail and maybe a half mile bike lane just out of Loveland. But for the bulk of the ride, no bike lane. It crosses over U.S Route 25, which is the major corridor running north and south, indicating a potentially large volume of traffic. Colorado is known for erradic weather. On any given day you could have fog, rain, sleet, or snow. On any given ride, a goat head could poke through your tire causing a flat. I don't know how to change a tube. I don't really want to learn how to change a tube. But it is inevitable. I will have to do it. There is the hygiene factor. I can't smell at work, that's just bad form. Then there is the GEAR factor. This is where the money hits the pavement. I have the bike- a Rocky Mountain Solo- that I like. I have your basic riding gear. And while I'll need to pick up a few extra pieces of bike gear, what I won't need is GAS.
So, in summary, this is the challenge- 30 days of a car-free commute to work. Beginning April 12th and ending May 21st, I will leave my SUV in the driveway and ride my bike to and from work. 34.6 miles round trip per day times 30 Days......... for a grand total of 1,038 miles.
I need a lot of things to make this work. I need to re-configure my entire morning routine. I need to BLOG consistently so others can share in my misery. I probably even need a psychologist- oh wait, I am one.
Cheers to the 34solo experience!
So what's the story behind this Blog? Well, I had a BIG idea the other day as I was sitting in my office that I wanted to just ride my bike home. I had been sitting most of the day and with waves of stress flowing into my office, had this sudden urge to just bolt. I had this feeling of needing fresh air and feeling a breeze on my face. I had this desire to just ride toward the mountains. But I couldn't bolt because I need my job. I actually like my job. It's a job that I will probably be at for the next...oh... 20 + years. This is a depressing thought actually. So the idea came to me that I need to change the landscape of my day. I mean, I can't NOT work. But maybe I could incorporate riding into my day, and maybe- JUST MAYBE- I could leave my gas-guzzling SUV at home.
Is it possible? Is it possible to leave my house in the early morning on a bike, and come home in the late afternoon on a bike? All the while........ keeping my day job? As I thought of this, visions of flat tires and rain and helmet hair danced through my head. Work starts early- 7:15. I live 17.3 miles from work. The single, most direct path between home and work is a highway. Highway 34 to be exact. For the past 6 months, I've periodically seen a lone rider making the commute from west to east. I'd see him at different points along the way, and admire his stamina and courage. I often wondered where he lived, and where his final destination was. I haven't seen him in a while, but if you are HIM and have discovered this blog, shoot me an email. Would love to chat....
Anyway, let's take a closer look at the challenge.
I live in Loveland, Colorado and work in Greeley. The total one way distance is 17.30 miles. There is one direct route- U.S Route 34. This is an east-west highway that runs for 1,222 miles from the western suburbs of Chicago to north-central Colorado. It runs through Rocky Mountain National Park, where it is known as Trail Ridge Road and reaches a whopping 12,183 feet, making it the highest paved through highway in the United States. Very cool.
It's a pretty commute really because you drive toward the sunrise every morning, and head home to spectacular mountain views. Now let's look at the negatives here.
U.S Route 34 doesn't have a designated bike lane. There is a short stretch of a bike trail and maybe a half mile bike lane just out of Loveland. But for the bulk of the ride, no bike lane. It crosses over U.S Route 25, which is the major corridor running north and south, indicating a potentially large volume of traffic. Colorado is known for erradic weather. On any given day you could have fog, rain, sleet, or snow. On any given ride, a goat head could poke through your tire causing a flat. I don't know how to change a tube. I don't really want to learn how to change a tube. But it is inevitable. I will have to do it. There is the hygiene factor. I can't smell at work, that's just bad form. Then there is the GEAR factor. This is where the money hits the pavement. I have the bike- a Rocky Mountain Solo- that I like. I have your basic riding gear. And while I'll need to pick up a few extra pieces of bike gear, what I won't need is GAS.
So, in summary, this is the challenge- 30 days of a car-free commute to work. Beginning April 12th and ending May 21st, I will leave my SUV in the driveway and ride my bike to and from work. 34.6 miles round trip per day times 30 Days......... for a grand total of 1,038 miles.
I need a lot of things to make this work. I need to re-configure my entire morning routine. I need to BLOG consistently so others can share in my misery. I probably even need a psychologist- oh wait, I am one.
Cheers to the 34solo experience!
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