Category Archives: Motivation

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To Assume

The baby porcupine

I heard it was going to be a scorcher this week here in the East so I thought I would cool you off with a winter like post on an interesting subject. I was in Alta, Utah a couple of years ago with some friends and we stopped at the side of a trail and lo and behold, a baby porcupine came waddling out and made its way over to me. It kind of looked at me and decided that maybe I was friendly and started to make its way up my right leg. I didn’t quite know what to do and just stood still while the baby’s curiosity was piqued, and my friends all got a big kick out of it.

I looked over to my left and a young female ski patrol came up to me and admonished me not to feed the porcupine. I politely told her I was not feeding the critter and it was just curious and making its way up my leg. She came over, lightly brushed the porcupine from my leg, gave me a rather nasty look and told me again not to feed the porcupines. At that moment, my friends got a little testy with her, but I simply said………..” really- I did not feed him.” She skied away shaking her head and we made our way to the lift.

The Collins Lift at Alta

Thinking about that a little bit riding up the chair, I realized that she was assuming I was one of the tourists who maybe fed the porcupines. Maybe she had some issues with people in the past, saw an out of towner like me and decided that I was just another touron making her life miserable. She assumed things and was in error. You know what they say about assuming? Well- we all know that one.

It is interesting sometimes at ski areas when the “locals” sometimes are not enamored with the guests of the resort and sometimes assume things. Whenever I get the “I am a local” line from someone on the chairlift, I ask them where they are really from and more often than not, they are from Cleveland, Houston or somewhere else not quite local. Maybe they have been there for a season or two but now they qualify themselves as a “local” and look with disdain at the people who spend money and help to employ them. They assume we are something we are not. You know, I respect them with the job that they are doing, so I would expect some courtesy on their part in return. Not always the case, because most people are cordial and happy to have people visit so that they can be employed. But sometimes you get the attitude that you are not welcome and really – that is short sighted.

I have found as I have gotten older, that it is important to look beyond the obvious and try to see the world from another’s point of view. There are people who are hurting, have had a tragedy in their life that they are trying to recover from- not always in the best way. I think it is important to deliver the benefit of the doubt to everyone with whom you come in contact. Try to see the world from their point of view. Try not to assume that they are wrong and have no say in an issue.

People are busy today. They often don’t have time or don’t think they have time to assess a situation and dismiss someone with an assumption. Sometimes young people see me with my gray hair and assume that I am old and in the way. But maybe if they would stop for just a moment, get to know us old gray mares and maybe see if there was something of value from us, life would be a lot more friendly. We most often would shock them with some revelations about our skill on a mountain bike, a pair of skis, or just general knowledge instead of just blowing us off.

Old gray hairs that can still ski. Don’t assume. We don’t let the old man in.

We all are in the same boat. We all assume things every day that might not really hold water. We dismiss people who are really not who we think they are. The homeless are not all drug users and alcoholics. I met a kid who was eating at the Light of Life Shelter here in Pittsburgh who was trying to put himself through college at Pitt and had no residence. I helped a lady to her feet after a bad fall on the sidewalk and took her to the Urgent Care. Hundreds of people drove right past her either too busy to help her or assumed that someone else would help. They assumed that she was ok and kept on driving because their schedule would not allow them to stop.

We all need to stop assuming and try to put ourselves into another person’s shoes. That really is the only way to stop division, and perhaps help someone who maybe does not agree with you, or you assumed they would not agree with you. You know what they say about people who assume? Thanks for reading. Stay cool this week.

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Overcoming Adversity

Jeff Chetlin and Pete Hilton -North Park trails.

You know, the great writer and pastor Chuck Swindoll always said,” life is 10 percent what happens to you, and 90 percent how you react to it.” A lot of truth to that statement and when you think about it for a minute, it hits the nail right on the head. At least, that is how it should be for all of us. A lot of us react with a positive attitude when something happens, others do not. But if you can handle adversity and make something good come out of it, you are better off personally, and also you can make life better for those who interact with you. Personally, I also believe that it is a good chance to share your faith and be a good witness to the Good News even when bad things happen to you. Handling adversity is not for the faint of heart.

Take my friend Jeff Chetlin, for instance. Now I have posted about Jeff and his lovely wife Julie before but as a refresher, Jeff had a stroke a couple of years ago that could have been devastating in consequence. Jeff was having a routine heart valve replacement and produced a clot on the operating table and had a stroke. His recovery was slow and steady, but Jeff always had a positive and a “can-do” attitude which helped his recovery over the last couple of years. I remember his first mountain bike ride after the stroke down at the Bowling Green area of Frick Park. He was a bit apprehensive but wanted to do it and I remember telling him- ” you know how to ride a bike, just get on and peddle.” Which is what he did with a big smile on his face. Fast forward a couple of years and here he is this weekend riding all the trails at our North Park with very little trouble at all. Jeff has always been a “go getter” guy and his attitude towards his recovery has been exemplary. Although he admits that he is not back to where he once was before he had the stroke, he is grateful that he can ski at his home area of Mt. Bachelor, Oregon. He makes beautiful turns- I was witness to that last winter. He also has been riding the trail systems in Bend with no issue.

Julie Chetlin- leading the way in more ways than one for her hubby Jeff.

Along with his uber- supportive wife Julie, the active couple shares their time between Bend, Oregon and Pittsburgh. Julie has family here and she spends time with them, and also with all of us who are their Pittsburgh team of friends and support. But the cool thing is how much Julie and Jeff are involved in their active communities both here and in Bend. Mountain bike riding, skiing, hiking, in two different parts of the country- all while Jeff has continually worked to improve his situation since the stroke. He has done remarkably well, and you would never know unless you spoke to him about it, that he had this setback. Not many people in his situation could come back and ride the muddy, rocky, root infested trails of North Park and do it with expertise and a smile on their face like Jeff.

Pete Hilton- Jeff’s North Park shadow.
Jodi Griswold- slaying the trails at North Park.

But perhaps the most salient comment on the ride this weekend was from our friend Jodi Griswold. As we took a break on the North Ridge, Jodi remarked how inspiring it is to see Jeff willing to speak to people about having a stroke and the consequences and recovery challenges in his life. He has done well, no doubt, but Jodi is right. Jeff spends a lot of time on calls with stroke recovery victims and also speaking to them in person both here and in Bend. He encourages them and tells them that if they work hard like him, they can return to some semblance of a normal life complete with all the activities they used to enjoy. He also is candid if he thinks that there will be limitations and doesn’t want to give false hope to some who may have had more difficulty with the stroke situation. But even in those instances, he is positive and encourages people that life is not over, and that positivity and the right mental attitude can do wonders for recovery.

Our riding buddy and doctor- Syed Hyder- instrumental in Jeff’s recovery.

Jeff is in the midst of writing a book on his challenges and recovery. It will be interesting to see what he has valued, and his lessons learned along his path. I am sure he will credit his wife Julie as she has been steadfast in her commitment to him and her willingness to be there every step of the way- encouraging him with his riding, skiing, and his willingness to share his story. The great thing about Jeff is he has always been the pied piper of his ski and riding groups. He now is the pied piper of all those who are trying to make a comeback from a catastrophic event in their lives. Like Jodi said, he is positive, encouraging, and candid, and would not be there if those same people who he is used to gathering about him, would not also be there supporting and praying for him. He is grateful for friends and continues to gather them on rides and on the slopes both in Bend and here in Pittsburgh.

Jeff and his posse here in Pa.
Jeff and his posse at Mt. Bachelor in Bend. ( Tim Girone’s birthday party)

The take- away here is that yes- things happen in life and especially as we all get older. How you handle the difficulties is dependent upon a lot of factors, but Jeff and Julie have handled it well. The important thing is to share your experiences with those who may be going through the same thing. Your experiences, your highs and lows, and your positivity are critical to a lot of people, and it is so inspirational to see a guy like Jeff willing to go out there for people in need. We all are called to do the same thing. Whether you have a critical event, or recognize someone in your community having a difficult time, be there for them. Think of what Jeff would do. Thanks for reading.

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Don’t Let the Old Man In

Two friends still at it- 45 years later.

This is my buddy Eric who lives in Lake Tahoe. He and I have been skiing together for 45 years, and I always learn something new from him every year. He is retired, and coaches kids at his local mountain in Tahoe. We usually ski together in Tahoe and Mammoth Mountain every spring. So last week, 10 months after my previous trip, we were locked and loaded for another round. After our warmup (LOL), which was a high speed cruiser off Chair 2 trying to stay with Eric and his razor sharp carved turns, I found myself at the top of the mountain right off the gondola and staring down Climax . It is one of the double blacks right off the summit and for a brief moment, I thought,” I have this, right?” I mean you have to be on your A game as you make your way through steep moguls to the chalky smooth steeps of the Climax face. As soon as I started turning, it was all auto- pilot and we went non-stop to the McCoy mid station to reload the gondola.

Another Climax Run- photo by Eric Durfee

After a 30K vertical foot day of steeps and cruisers, we came back to the hotel to say hello to Ryan Hurley, the manager of the Quality Inn and a friend of Eric’s. Ryan is a nice guy and probably one of the best skiers in Mammoth. What he showed us next solidified his legend.

Some things never change in 45 years. First in line. Photo by Eric Durfee
Ryan’s broken Faction skis behind the bindings.

Apparently, Ryan that day, rocketed out of Phillipe’s ( one of the steep double black runs at the top of Mammoth), and cranked a hard right hand turn and heard both of his skis snap behind the bindings. He managed to put one of the skis together and carried the other one, and skied on the one broken ski all the way down to the lodge. He said he wanted to ski with us the next day. Really?

Ryan Hurley ready to ski with the old guys ( on a new pair of Faction Skis)

Being the gracious guy that he is, Ryan followed us for a couple of runs and remarked to Eric in the chairlift that we were an inspiration to him. At 44 years old, he saw his future in us as older dudes who can still ski. He also asked how I can ski like I do coming from Pittsburgh. I said, ” Long story Ryan.” But we were happy that he was kind enough to spend a few runs with us before straight lining down Climax and jumping off a rock cropping into the distance. Like I always say……..youth is wasted on the young.

Flipping the coin a little bit, we see Freddy here who is a friend of Eric’s, and skis at one of the local areas in Tahoe. He drives 40 miles to and from the area, four days a week, skis for 4 hours, has lunch and drives back. Freddy is 87. I asked him, how do you do it? The driving, the skiing, the hiking in the off season. He says the secret is eating right ( he has not eaten meat in 20 years). He exercises and says basically he is like a shark……..always moving and looking for food. Freddy is our future barring any injuries or catastrophic illness. We also met two other senior citizens in Tahoe who were 86 and 82. Both of these guys can still ski very well and the one guy Jim, had his kids with him. Kids being in their 50’s. LOL!

Freddy ready to bedeck the bead tree on the way up the chairlift. What an inspiration. 87 years young and can ski really well!!!
The view of perfectly groomed corduroy looking into Lake Tahoe. Photo by Eric Durfee

So as Eric and I face 70 this year, we look back and think about all the great times skiing that we have had and look forward to many, many more. We will try to keep ourselves in good shape by exercising, riding our mountain bikes and hiking, and in short, try to stay ahead of the game. John, one of Eric’s friends who is 82 and a former masters racer, said his secret is to ” keep the old man out.” Not his line really because that belongs to Clint Eastwood when asked how at 93, he has the energy to still direct and produce movies. Clint always responds that he just keeps the old man out. I kind of like that line, and although comparatively speaking with John, Jim and Freddy, and Clint for that matter, we are not old. But we are not 44 either. However, the amazing thing is that we can still ski at a pretty high level, especially Eric. How long we can do that is dependent on a lot of things, but sitting in the lot after another 30 K day at Mammoth, we had some beers with a guy who we call First Chair Kurt. Kurt makes razor sharp carved turns too and as we followed him down all week on the first run, we found out that he is basically our age. He and his pals love to ski and intend to do so for a long time. Kurt skis four days a week at Mammoth and is retired. Like the other guys in his posse. They love to ski and love to talk skiing afterwards in the lot with a few beers sporting their sunglasses. They don’t let the old man in either. A good way to roll. Remember, you don’t quit skiing because you get old, you get old because you quit skiing. Thanks for reading and be like Freddy- the shark who keeps moving, looking for food.

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The Older We Get- The Better We Were.

Howard Johnson’s at Tuckerman Ravine- 1984

So, I was surprised this week when my friend Eric, from Tahoe( formerly of Vermont), mailed me some pictures from way back when we skied Tuckerman Ravine together. Looking at these 40 year old photos, I thought back to a time when we laid down the only tracks one day in Dodge’s Drop ( and Eric had a cast on his wrist). We had some good times up there as we skied it many times together. But the thing that is amazing about this picture is the equipment we used. I mean, look at the skis. Probably 203 or 205 cm GS skis. Look how narrow compared to today’s equipment. 

External frame pack made for interesting attachments. 

The other interesting thing about these pictures was the external frame packs we used. We added cross bars with latches and wingnuts to secure the skis to the frame. He was from Vermont and naturally used wood. I was from the steel city and with the help of my dad, we used aluminum cross bars. All in all, with the boots secured in the bindings, our clothing and food for the week, sleeping bag and mat, the pack weighed in at around 85 pounds which was a pretty good load to haul to the shelters where we stayed. One year, I thought I would save some time and make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches ahead of time. By the time the week ended, that package of sandwiches had been slept on, eaten from, and generally the once nice, neat stack of sandwiches had turned into a peanut butter dough ball. Lots of memories came flooding back to me as I opened the envelope this week from my friend. 

In today’s world, people who climb and ski as we did, use internal frame packs. There are slots in the side of the packs that allow easy placement of the skis and the internal frames are much better suited to securing a lot of cargo. Lots of guys today use skins on their skis for climbing, and AT equipment to hike and ski to their destinations. Eric and I basically hauled our alpine equipment up to the shelter, and from there basically climbed up in our ski boots with our skis over our shoulders. Equipment surely changes and evolves over the years and skiing is no exception. 

Pro Skier Cody Townsend climbing with his internal pack and AT gear. 

The other things that evolve over time are the stories that we tell about the old days. Sure, there are embellishments, the runs are bigger and badder than perhaps they were, and the stories that we tell each other evolve with the passage of time. But like my friend Paul Vey still says many years later, our trip down Corbet’s Couloir at Jackson Hole, was the highlight of his athletic career. He played Div 1 basketball at UVM and that is still saying something. Somehow the beers taste better when the stories start cranking up. Eric’s wife Helen usually disappears when she starts hearing the old stories. She has heard them way too many times. But when pictures like these start showing up again, they remind me of a time gone by and the good times that we had. I mean, we are still at it – 40 years later. Maybe not camping and hiking Tuckerman Ravine anymore, but still skiing in some pretty good places and having a pretty good time. And still skiing relatively well. 

Eric and our other skiing pal Hutch at June Mt., California. Yes, the beer tastes better when the stories start flowing. 

So, if you get a chance, go look in your old photo boxes and take some time to review your old times with great friends. They will remind you that friendships are important and like equipment and stories, they evolve over time. Having friends that you can still do things with after many years is a true blessing. Encourage each other to stay in shape, stay at it, and make the effort to get together whenever you can. And always remember- the older we get……………the better we were. Thanks for reading. 

40 years later at Mammoth Mountain, California. 

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The Headwall at Tuckerman Ravine

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Age Fluid

I was headed to the mountains this weekend and was listening to the Rich Roll Podcast as per my usual custom. It keeps me entertained on my way up and I heard an interesting comment from Rich’s guest- Chip Conley. Chip is a noted author, speaker, hotelier, and founder of the Modern Elder Academy. His purpose is to create awareness of the benefits of aging and how to best utilize the tools that we have acquired as we age. He spoke about being age fluid which basically means that if you have a meaningful purpose in life- career, hobbies, faith, outdoor activities, you can have a lot of friends that are from all different ages. He says most people really don’t care how old you are chronologically if you are able to be a vibrant member of that particular community. Rich Roll even stated that most of his friends are 10 years younger than him because he is involved in fitness, and he is age fluid. His chronological age of 57 doesn’t matter. He just does his thing ,and he is involved in a younger community of fitness enthusiasts. 

My MTB group in West Virginia 

Chip also said another interesting thing when he referred to the three stages of life being like the life of a butterfly. In the caterpillar stage, which typically is in our 20s and 30s, we are consuming. Attaining knowledge and skills, like a caterpillar is consuming to grow. In our 40s and 50s, we are in the chrysallis stage where we are transforming to what will become the final outcome- a butterfly. Finally, when we are in our 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond, we are in our butterfly stage, having transformed from the caterpillar and flying freely and pollinating as we spread our experience and knowledge and enthusiasm to others in an age fluid atmosphere. 

I reflected on my drive as I heard this and thought about my life stages and where I am, and where I want to be. Interesting that on my Garmin Fenix fitness watch, which takes in lots of data from my exercising, it says that my biological age is 57. When I look at that I think that yes, I am aging chronologically, but as far as how I feel, I am not anywhere near my chronological age. My neighbor, who recently retired said to me not to attach a number to my stage in life. He says that it is all in how you feel. I am in agreement with that because as I assess my fitness and overall well- being at the beginning of a new year, I think- “can I still do the things I like to do?” Then of course I get out there and just have at it and don’t think much more about it as I ride my mountain bike and ski. I don’t feel any different and am thankful to the good Lord that I am still able to participate in these things and not show off……… but show up. And like the butterfly, I can share some knowledge and experience when asked. 

Keep it going!!! 

So being age fluid, is a positive way to live life. It not only exists for outdoor activities, but also for other walks of life that include career, and worthy causes, sharing some of the knowledge and experience like the pollinating butterfly. I do realize that chronologically I am moving down the road, but I do think that as we all age, we can continue to be a vibrant contributor to the world around us by volunteering, and helping people in many ways through our experience and our enthusiasm. Some of my best conversations are on mountain bike rides, on chairlifts, and sharing a meal with friends who generally are younger than me. I learn from them for sure, and they, in turn, enjoy some of the stories and experiences I have had. I rarely am asked how old I am. That is because maybe I am…………age fluid. Thanks for reading and keep on keeping on. 

Jan and I enjoying a laugh and being ………….fluid. 

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Accountability

Even when it is nasty

This is the time of year when people make resolutions for a healthier life. Among other things, the beginning of a new year is filled with promise, hope, and thoughts of making one’s life more productive and more enjoyable. One way to start that process is perhaps a new diet or way of eating, and sometimes a new exercise program. For those who have not done one for a while, it is a good idea to check with your doctor before embarking on a new program, especially if you have been a little sedentary. But nonetheless, a new exercise program or a return to former exercise program is great for anyone at any age. 

The woods are my gym. 

For me, I always like to have a goal to work towards. It doesn’t have to be anything big at my age, but a goal is always a good program for a new year. I am not a gym guy, so I am always doing outside things like mountain bike riding and hiking all year, and skiing when the season is upon us. I like fresh air and being outdoors and never really took to the gym. However, for a lot of people, the gym is a good place to start especially in the winter when the weather gets inclement. I see a lot of people walking and jogging in our local parks this time of year. I call them the New Years resolution crowd because many of them will begin, but then the numbers dwindle off as the year goes on. But for many of them, if they ease into it, start slowly, and be consistent, it can be part of their lifestyle that can make the resolution a reality. I can’t emphasize enough to start out easy and build up slowly. 

The Endura MT500 Riding Outfits. 

One thing that helps if you want to begin an outdoor exercise program is to get the right clothes. My friend the Shark always says,” no such thing as bad weather just bad clothing.” If you have the right clothing that keeps you dry and keeps the wind at bay, you can go out in the lousiest of weather and have a good workout and enjoy the ride. My Endura MT 500 jacket and pants are the ticket (us.endurasport.com) and when it gets real wet and nasty, I turn to a similar outfit made by Frogg Toggs (available at Dick’s Sporting Goods in the hunting department) that basically sheds water. But for the most part, the Endura outfit is the way to go. Ski socks, a wool skull cap under the helmet, and warm gloves are also key. 

But perhaps the most important thing to make an exercise program stick are friends who want to do the same thing. My best friends are my mountain bike and skiing friends, and we all hold each other accountable. Some days we may not feel like going out into the cold, nasty weather, especially at night, but our friends hold us accountable, and we bring the lights, the outfits, and have at it. At the end of the session, we may have a beverage, talk about the ride or the ski day, and then figure out when the next outing is. The best motivators are your pals who love to do the same thing as you do. So if you do not have a posse to hang out with and hold you accountable to show up……… find one. It is pretty easy if you join a group either found on -line, or recommended by shops, or simply showing up where people start their rides or programs in your local park. If you make the effort, you can really have some fun with a lot of people who eventually become your best friends in the world. No one beats my mountain bike clan or my ski pals. But the big thing about a group or a couple of friends, is that they hold you accountable. I will tell you that I have been doing this stuff for a long, long time and I really don’t need much encouragement or motivation. I have no issue skiing or riding in the rain. But I like to get people into these sports, and I welcome them and hold them accountable to show up. Most of the time it is successful, and our groups have welcomed a lot of newcomers over the years who now are motivating others. 

The Night Riders
Ski pals forever- we lost Proctor a couple of years ago on the right. Cherish your friends.  
The Mountain Bike Clan at Penn State
The local ski guys at Holimont. Been skiing with them for a lot of years. Andy, Hiller, Porter and Jamie.

So, if you are new to a sport and you want to have a resolution this year to get involved, find your group. The right ones will drag you out in the worst weather, drag you to the most challenging events, in rain, snow, sleet, hail, and make you smile the whole time. Ease into it, make your resolution stick, and get ready to be with a group who will be your best friends forever. Thanks for reading. 

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Support Your Local……..

Frick Park winter ride with Jeff Chetlin. 

Tired of the limited ski terrain due to terrible weather, and the huge “EPIC” crowds at our local ski resorts for the Holidays, our posse called an audible and met our pal Jeff and his wife Julie for a winter ride in Frick Park in the city of Pittsburgh. We included what I call the Tour de Death through Homewood Cemetery and it was a truly pleasant outing in the city with very little mud. We like to support our friend Jeff who has made nothing short of a miraculous recovery from a stroke. In fact, he bought a new E-Bike and re-assumed his role at the front of the pack, smiling like a butcher’s dog.( Thanks Mike Lange) He has appreciated the support while he has been recovering and is now fully on his way to living his life the way he wants to live it with his ever- energetic wife Julie. The key is support of friends. He would do the same for all of us and it was truly our pleasure to see him relish in the support of all his “outdoor type” friends. 

Bob K up and over the roller in Frick Park. Yes- literally an old cement roller that the local “Slagforce” installed for all of our enjoyment. 

Jeff always says that the mountain bike crowd is the most friendly and supportive group of people whom he knows. That is saying something seeing that he is a skier, mountain biker, snowmobiler, and avid, all -around outdoor sportsman. I would tend to agree. 

Thinking about support, especially locally, our favorite ski area of Laurel Mountain has had a rough start with the weather as well as some mechanical issues due to a power surge which damaged the chair lift motor and the snowmaking pump motors. Not to mention that during a recent storm, RT 30 was closed due to an accident and nobody could get to the resort. Our crowd has made it a mission to support Laurel during this time and show up even if all the terrain is not open. The folks on the staff there work extra hard to make Laurel a viable option during the winter, and it is a shame that they have been dealt a tough hand of cards in this early season. But again, our ski crowd,( many of whom are also in the mountain bike crowd), actively support what is going on in our local little ski area. We want to see it thrive and therefore show up even when conditions are not optimal. Happy to report that Laurel got a nice snowfall New Years Eve. Things are looking up. 

Hoping Laurel Mountain looks like this again soon. 

I think a lot about the slogan- ” Support Your Local…….” Every time I see a police officer, I thank them for their service. They have a tough job “protecting and serving” all of us in these tumultuous times. I thank anyone who has or is currently serving all of us in the military. Lots of local people who selflessly serve all of us. I support our local church as being part of a community of believers is important to me. John Guest, the famous evangelist, always says that you need not go far to support someone in need. The elderly in your neighborhood, local charities, a friend who is down. John says you don’t have to be a missionary overseas. Just look around your local neighborhood, workplace, school, and you will see opportunities to ” support your local…….” Give the local store support instead of spending your money in some big box store. Support the local businesses as they are trying hard to make it in this world today. There are so many opportunities to ” support your local……” I listened to the latest Rich Roll Podcast and his guest, Simon Hill, ( noted Australian health and fitness expert), said a very interesting thing. He was talking about service and serving others and said that one of the number one ways to lower stress and reduce blood pressure markers is to be of service to others. It has been clinically proven in testing individuals for health markers ,( cholesterol, blood pressure, VO2 max, etc.) that lifestyle changes like service can actually improve a number of markers in individuals who are looking to improve their health.

Darrell Porter and Ozanam helping us support Ronald McDonald House Charities. 

As we move towards 2024, Janet and I are trying to make more of an effort to support worthy local causes. Not that the big ones are not important, but keeping it local among business support, church support, charity support, is critical to keeping in touch with the local community. We are all in this together. 

Gretl Dupre restored Camp Soles. An outdoor camp for kids. Locally in our Laurel Highlands. 
The always smiling Gretl at her beloved Camp Soles. A wonderful opportunity for local kids to experience the great outdoors. 

Think about supporting your local friend, neighbor, family member, business, ski area, camp, and so many other opportunities in 2024. My mother always said…..” Happiness is like a perfume that you can’t sprinkle on others without getting a little on yourself.” So true mom. Happy New Years to all and enjoy the outdoors. Thanks for reading. 

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When the Autumn Weather- Turns the Leaves to Flame

Skipper Lake at the Lodge at Glendorn

The title line here is from the iconic “September Song” – arranged by Kurt Weil and lyrics by Maxwell Anderson. But when I play this song on my piano, ( from my mother’s sheet music), it reminds me that fall is here and the leaves are changing, the nights are cooler, and probably my favorite time of the year has arrived. As much as I try to rush into ski season, more and more I am relishing the cool, crisp days of fall with the spectacular foliage we have here in Western Pa. I am in no hurry for winter. It will come soon enough, and I will surely enjoy it. But as I get older, I really enjoy the changing of the seasons – especially summer to fall.

The other night, our posse was out mountain bike riding on one of our regular weekly scheduled rides, and we noticed that after the sun went down, it got real cool ,real fast. The sweatshirts came out and we sat around with our post ride beers and snacks ( courtesy of Bob K), and really enjoyed riding and relaxing in cooler weather without the swelter of summer. I seem to ride better when the humidity is lower and the temperatures start to moderate. But aside from that, to sit and take in the cool weather, a nice IPA, and listen to the cricket symphony of early fall is a true blessing.

Bear Cub sighting last fall.

Sometimes when you hike or ride in the fall, you come across some interesting things- like two bear cubs scampering up a tree in the Allegheny National Forest. I was looking for mom when I snapped this photo but got it and then quickly took off so as not to irritate the mother bear. The Laurel Mountains, close to here, also paint a picture a little earlier than in the suburbs. It is great to venture east and see the changing of the leaves happen a little earlier with the slight rise in elevation. Sunshine, cooler weather, and colder nights, seem to bring out the colors faster than in the city and suburbs. I tend to visit the Laurels a lot in the fall because of the wonderful fall portraits that display themselves in Ligonier, Somerset, and Rector, Pa. The fireplaces are cranking up and that smoky smell just excites me to no end. The smells of fall are intoxicating. There is something about a crackling fire that enhances the fall experience, and the smell of leaves is not really accurately describable – but we all know that smell.

I am also a fan of the tastes of fall. Nothing like a good Octoberfest to get you going. And even though I don’t enjoy the great wursts, sauerbraten, and pork loins anymore because I am not a meat eater, nobody can slam potato pancakes and apple sauce like me along with some nice braised red cabbage washed down with a great German beer or a local Penn Brewery Octoberfest lager. Maybe a warm pretzel as well! I like to listen to the ooom pahh German bands too. They seem to go along with the great beers and food.

Great time to hike or ride a mountain bike and take in scenes like this. Seven Springs, Pa.
My old outdoor fireplace was always blazing in the fall.

You know, I am not really sure I could ever live in a place that does not have the change of seasons. Especially a place that really does not have a fall season. I love wearing sweaters, sweatshirts, and even those times where you have a puffy jacket on and a pair of shorts. That kind of describes the weather here in the Mid -Atlantic and the Northeast. Cool mornings, warmer days, and then cool again at night. Great sleeping weather. I don’t miss the summer AC at all.

Bondieu Lake- The Lodge at Glendorn- Bradford, Pa.

As time marches on, I find myself taking time to really enjoy what God’s creation has to offer. I notice the flame red leaves on the trails as I ride, I take in the smells, I look for little things that might have gone un-noticed as a younger person. Watching a particular maple tree in my neighborhood change colors so slowly but yet somehow- so quickly. Holding my wife’s hand on a hike instead of rushing up a hill to be the first guy there. Fall is like that. It gives you perspective, but rewards you with scenery that you only see for a short time- once per year. My advice to all of you is get out there and enjoy it and take the time to enjoy it all. We have a good deal here in Western Pa. Thanks for reading.

The Transition Spur in transition time in the Laurels.
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Time

Ocean City, NJ

So we visited Janet’s cousin and aunt last week at the “shore” as it is called. Looking out at the ocean and listening to my soundtrack on my new Shokz Open Fit earphones, I had some contemplative moments. The Open Fits are a great item that allow you to listen to music or podcasts but fit outside your ear canal so you can hear what is going on around you. Check them out. But anyhow, I was thinking about the end of summer and the beginning of fall coming and getting close to another lap around the sun for me which will be the end of a decade. Next year is the beginning of a new decade for me and sometimes I feel like I am running out of time. I feel like I am in a Ferrari at full speed, standing and holding the steering wheel, both feet slammed on the brakes to no avail. Thoughts like that are on one side of the mental checklist, but more positive thoughts are on the other side of that checklist. Things like good health with which I have been blessed. The plant based diet seems to be working as I have lowered cholesterol significantly and lost 13 pounds which was not really intended. I don’t need to lose weight, but I did and feel so much better. I have been riding my mountain bike better and feel lighter and stronger even though I am getting older.

I use a Garmin Fenix 6 X fitness watch which allows me to track a whole host of data, some which I use and others that are not used. But two of the interesting metrics are that is says my fitness age is 57 and my Vo2 Max is 43 which is in the top ten percent for my age group. Not sure how much stock I put into those metrics, but it makes you feel a little better. I am not afraid of getting older, but sometimes when you have time to think, like at the shore, thoughts creep into your head. I lost some friends this year and that is sobering. But as Dr. Peter Attia says, it is not that we are trying to live longer, but to enjoy the years we have with good health. He also says in his book “Outlive”, that if you want to roll around on the floor with your grandkids, and get up with no issues, you have to “backcast” to where you are now and start exercising with that in mind. A lot of that is genetics and good blessings, but exercise is definitely a contributor and something to which I have always subscribed.

The mountain bike has been a wonderful tool for me.
End of summer floral greetings on the trails.

As I move to this new decade in 2024, I do still have some fitness goals. I also want to continue to learn. My friend Eric is helping me to work on a more modern ski technique which I will practice this winter. I need to get lower, wider, and use both skis in a turn like the modern race turn which is facilitated by the new equipment available to us. You can always learn new things. Sure, I can stay with my A frame classic technique but why not continue to learn new things and make more dynamic turns on the slopes?

I can’t do it like Mikaela but it sure is a good mental image.

But other than exercise, there are more considerations about the topic of time. I am moving towards retirement, and I am beginning to think about the use of time for Janet and me in a world where I will not be employed anymore. Janet’s cousin Jeff had an interesting comment during our stay at the shore. He is retiring next year, and he is a surgeon. He told me he thought that the most important thing is not what you are retiring from, but what you are retiring to. He says the new chapter in your life should be filled with a purpose. In his case, he is going to be actively involved in the ministry of the Eastern Orthodox Church. He not only has a medical degree from Yale, but a Divinity degree as well. He is going to make good use of that in retirement. I also think that is a good mission statement for Janet and me. There are so many worthy causes to which we can give our time and we will make an effort to pray about it and see where this path will take us.

Time spent together is priceless.

But getting back to that mental checklist, the fear of running out of time is offset by being active and enjoying all that life has to offer. Time together, traveling, active lifestyles, continuing education. To be honest, I feel better now and more fit than I did ten years ago. How that is possible is beyond me, but I will continue with the exercise and the diet and see how things go. God has been good to us. I appreciate all the blessings we have, and the contemplative thoughts are usually overshadowed by an active and productive lifestyle. And as most older people have said – keep moving.

Bill McCollom was a former masters ski racer ,all American ski racer at Middlebury College and editor of Ski Racing. His famous line was, ” I want to go skidding across the finish line of life, missing parts, leaking oil, and screaming……..GERONIMO!!!” An interesting mantra from a very active guy. Thanks for reading and keep moving.

Now the time has come

There are things to realize

Time has come today

-The Chambers Brothers.

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Adventurefest 2023 “Enter Through The Narrow Gate”

Our first visitor to our camp site.

“John- look who is coming your way to welcome you to Adventurefest 2023!” We chuckled at the inquisitive reptile who seemed to be quite interested in John Casuccio’s blue rubber boots. Due to unforseen circumstances, I missed Adventurefest last year but was determined to attend this year. We had a great group of guys setting up our tents and settling in for the weekend at the annual Christian men’s outdoor festivities at Agape Farm in Shirleysburg, Pa. 167 guys settled in for a weekend of camping, mini-bike riding, fishing, drone flying, Harley riding, and mountain bike riding at the Allegrippis Trails at Raystown Lake. Greg Nass is a pastor who organizes the weekend with a really responsive crew and his diligence makes the schedule and the weekend flow as smoothly as possible. We had great weather this year as well.

Greg Nass and the uber positive Mark” the Shark” Sauers

So what is Adventurefest actually and who are the Adventuremen? Tough to put your finger on because it is such a diverse group. But most of the guys are normal Joes who call themselves Christians, and generally have families, are happily married, and seem to like to congregate at Agape Farm every year for many reasons. Some are trying to get their lives back together after a background of alcohol abuse, drug abuse and some crime. Sure, it is great fun to camp and get away with a group of guys who have like- minded interests. All the activities are great and there is always something fun going on. But where the rubber meets the road is when the Assembly of God preachers take the stage after some great music by the Morgan Dolan Band. The theme of the weekend was the passage” enter through the narrow gate.” Most people take the wider road or path, but to take the narrow gate takes conviction and is not easy to do in life. Matthew 7-verses 13-14. Look it up for context.

Friday night……..

After camp set ups, the men all assembled for opening remarks by Greg Nass and Pastor Michael Ragozzino took the stage. Now most people would think that a pastor would be a quiet, pious type with a poignant message spoken in a demure way. Not Michael. He freely shared his background growing up on the North Side of Pittsburgh. 32 rehabs, prison time, heroin addiction at 16, armed robbery for a $500.00 a day habit which put him into several years of incarceration. Finally at the suggestion of his mother, he turned his life around and learned about the Christian faith. He became a pastor and now has a wonderful wife and family and serves in a church in Somerset, Pa. His passionate message to us was that it is never too late. Everyone has a mission no matter what their background is. We left the long building marveling at his faith, his passion and his willingness to be open about a very tough background.

Lights out at midnight.

Saturday…….

John suggested to me that we had another visitor to our camp early in the dark morning. He heard a large movement right outside his tent and a deep measured breath of a large animal which John in his silence thought was definitely a bear. For some reason the turtle, and now a bear, seemed to be sending John a message or was inquisitive about this guy from Moon Township. We laughed about it over our breakfast with our group of ruffians camped near the little lake on the property.

The affable John Casuccio- musing about his nocturnal visit from the bear.
Bob and Gus manning the cooking stations. Fortunately, all the food was in the trucks each night.
The Adventuremen Mountain Bikers at Raystown.

After breakfast and before the group headed to Raystown ( more on this ride next week), we listened to a message from Pastor Duane Goodling who gave an informative talk about the validity of the Bible. He gave us all a sheet with some interesting talking points. Things like- read the Bible. Know what is in the Bible to know what not is in the Bible. There are normative and prescriptive passages in the Bible which can explain some fundamental misunderstandings. Things that were written for the people of the time and things that were written that are timeless. We all were glued to that sheet and were really locked into the message from Pastor Duane which seemed to answer many questions and led to the conclusion that the inspired word of God is the truth. It is not subject to interpretation other than to understand the difference between the normative and prescriptive context.

After a great mountain bike ride at Raystown, we all headed to a delicious meal at Little New York in Huntington, Pa. ( Don’t miss that one if you get there.) Great Greek and Latin specialties. We then returned to the camp and ate a little more before we headed back up to the long building to hear what turned out to be an inspiring message by the Evangelist Tim Bennett. Look him up on Facebook or Google him. http://www.bennettministries.com He and his wife have an amazing evangelistic ministry based out of Mt. Morris, Pa. With great exuberance expected by an Assembly of God pastor and evangelist, Tim flew all over the room with relentless energy as he told us all to “raise the standard” in our lives. There are so many things going on today that are in total defiance to fundamental principles and the message to all of us as Christian men, husbands, fathers, and heads of households was to raise the standards and make a difference in the lives of all that we encounter. Don’t be judgmental. Be welcoming but speak the truth in love. Tim talked about financial troubles and said that if ” you go about your Father’s business, your Dad will always cover the bill.” “Your talent is a gift from God. What you do with it is your gift back to Him.” He was like a machine gun with all of these sayings and really lit up the room even though most of the men were tired from all the day’s activities. But Tim lit a fire under all of us and if you have never heard a Pentecostal message from an evangelist, put it on your list of ” to do”. You will not regret it and you will never forget it. Tim didn’t want us to leave from the weekend without considering what we would do to honor the Lord in everything we do from this day forward. He ignited the room and challenged the Adventuremen. People need hope these days and the timeless message of Christianity fits that bill. Providing hope and comfort in a world full of division, angst, and troubles. Tim challenged the group to put it out there and provide that message of hope. Don’t be afraid. You are giving people good news.

Pastor Dwayne Goodling.

A lot of people think that Christians are above it all, judgmental and condescending. Nothing could be further from the truth. Fact is we all acknowledge our sinfulness, limitations, and shortfalls and although we all may not have stories like Pastor Mike and his Northside days, we all have stories where we need redemption. We are all just normal Joes trying to get along in this life as husbands and fathers. All of you who know me, are aware that I am just a normal guy. I have a good sense of humor, I care about people, and I am interested in bettering my life and also hoping to make a difference in this world among my family and my treasured friends. Adventurefest and the Adventuremen do that for me. If you are interested in the organization, please go to www. Adventuremen.org I am honored to be on their board of directors. Come to Adventurefest next year and maybe try one of our Dirt Church mountain bike rides. We get all kinds. Believers, non-believers, good riders, not so good riders, but we have a good time with great food afterwards with a good message from Greg and The Shark. Come on out! Thanks for reading.

Beautiful Raystown Lake