Category Archives: Motivation

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Whoa Nellie!!!

Around the East , we are having a banner snow year, but the imminent freeze thaw cycles also lead to some icy conditions on the slopes where you need good sharp edges. But the same thing happens to the local trails that I ride in the winter. Usually, after a snow, the trails will pack down after hikers, runners, and fat bikers make the surface rideable. Kind of like a groomer at a ski area. I ride them with my Esker hard tail that I use in the winter with 2.6 tires. (Thanks Tom Florcik from Highline Bikes info@highlinebikes.com) That set up is good enough for most snow rides until the freeze thaw cycle starts. Then it gets a little sketchy. I end up talking to myself in sections. Encouraging myself, and riding the edges until I can find better spots. In the thaw/wet periods, I try not to ride so as to destroy the trail. But when I get the chance and the trails are rideable, they can be a good workout. Frozen trails are like riding in the summer. But thawing trails are soft and can give you a better workout than you might have bargained for. I see that on my Garmin watch when I look at the end of ride statistics. I work harder in softer conditions.

Sketchy trail conditions.

A lot of the guys that I ride with use studded tires in the winter. That works for sure. But I just go out when I can, and see if I can get by without them. If it gets too icy, I put Yak Traks on my hiking boots and go for a hike until the trail conditions get better. More snow is usually the remedy and the packing down cycle begins again. My neighbors think I am a bit touched when they see me load my bike in the Jeep in a snowstorm. But I like to ride, and peddling is my way to keep in shape and also have a little solace in the woods during a snowstorm. I have never been a gym guy, so I like to do things outdoors- no matter what the weather is doing. I don’t really live in ski country. It takes some effort to drive to the mountains to ski and drive to my local trail systems to ride. When the freeze thaw comes, I am prepared with sharp edges on my skis. But when I ride…………………whoa Nellie!!!!

So, getting back to my neighbors. They say, “why would a 70 year old guy ride in the dark, with lights, on snow covered or icy trails?” They just shake their head at me as if to say- “are you nuts?” But my response is always positive. I tell them how much fun it is, how beautiful a snow- covered trail is in the woods at night, and how trail conditions improve my bike handling skills. Most of my neighbors are my age or a little older and their idea of conditioning is a little different than mine. I am not your typical 70 year old for many reasons. But continuing to do the things I like will keep me young. I want to enjoy skiing and riding for as long as I can. You don’t quit doing things because you get old………you get old because you quit doing things. I think about how long I will be able to schlepp ski bags and luggage through airports, drive in raging snowstorms, and put up with all the inconveniences just to do the things I like to do? I hope for a long time. Just keep doing it. When you quit, then you have a problem. Got some new roller luggage and roller ski bags this year just to make sure.

The Winter Bike

So my message this week is again, not to let the weather get the best of you. Enjoy a walk, a hike, or something outdoors in the winter. And when the trail conditions get a little sketchy……enjoy the ride, or the slide…….. as it may be. Thanks for reading.

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“Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead. I press on towards the goal to win the prize….” -Phillipians 3 13-14

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A Great Connection

The Durfees and the Chetlins in Bend, Oregon

There was a recent Harvard study on happiness that stated that the number one thing people believe makes them happy is meaningful social interactions. More so than money, power, or even health. Also, it was noted that people found more happiness out of giving something to others rather than getting something for themselves. Shared friendships that grow over time are part of that happiness. The great philosopher Carol McCloskey( my mother) 🙂 always said,” happiness is like a perfume that you can’t sprinkle on others without getting a little on yourself.

One of the things that makes me very happy is to connect people that I believe would really enjoy each others company. The two couples above in the photo are some of my favorite people and I always wanted to get them together because they have so much in common. Two years ago, when we were all in Bend, Oregon, was the first time that I introduced the Durfees to the Chetlins.

Good times at Mt. Bachelor for Tim Girone’s birthday and the first time the Durfees and the Chetlins met.

We all had a great time and I was particularly gratified that Jeff and Julie got to ski and spend time with Helen and Eric. They are both extremely devoted to the outdoors, have camping vans that take them all over the west, and an ethos that I always thought would gel.

The Chetlin’s Sprinter Van and the Durfee’s Sportmobile in the Chetlin’s driveway in Bend.

Recently the Durfee’s departed on a whirlwind trip of ski areas in the west in their Sportmobile, and made the effort to stop in Bend to see the Chetlins. I was so happy to receive the pictures of the two couples dining together, skiing together, and enjoying each other’s company. Something that I had wanted to happen for a long time. It was important to me to have them meet and foster what I believe will be a lifelong friendship. As an aside, Jeff has made a wonderful recovery from a stroke and is doing all the things he always liked to do. Eric has fully recovered from a fall in Nepal. Jeff and Eric have had some real meaningful talks about their recoveries and some similar setbacks and issues regarding brain injuries. They are fortunate and can share their stories with each other and take comfort in the fact that by being in good shape, having excellent medical care, and with the power or prayer, they have been restored to their active lives. Thus, the zeal for both couples to do the things they like to do in the outdoors. So happy that they got another chance to do it together.

Helen, Eric, Julie and Jeff
Helen, Julie and Jeff at Mt. Bachelor

One of the cool things about skiing is that it brings people together in a fun outdoors environment. Lots of good conversations in the chairlifts about what is really meaningful in life. Along with discussions about skiing, family, travel and what lies ahead. As I communicated with both couples this last week, I was so happy to hear what a great time they had together. I can feel satisfied that I helped to foster what I hope to be a great friendship. Activities like skiing can be a great catalyst for bringing people together. Apres ski fun, discussions, and dinners together can bring lasting memories that will last a lifetime. Most of my really good friends I met through skiing and cycling. They are fun activities, but they gave me the chance to get to know some really great people in my life. My wife Janet is also grateful to know the Chetlins and the Durfees. They mean so much to us and the fact that skiing brought us all together is a testament to why I like the sport of skiing so much. There is way more to it than groomers, powder days, and beautiful ski areas.

Helen and Jeff- new ski pals.

We are all empty nesters now and it is important to cherish really good friendships. We are all blessed with good health, and a love for the outdoors. If you can take the opportunity to weave friends into your fabric of relationships, you have done your friends a great service, and you have surely sprinkled some happiness on yourself as well. Thanks for reading.

Photos courtesy of Eric and Helen Durfee and Julie and Jeff Chetlin

“Sweet friendships refresh the soul and awaken our hearts with joy” – Psalm 27:9

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Solo

Riding solo

Back in March of 2014, I wrote a post called Flying Solo about how I enjoyed skiing by myself especially when I would travel out to the Pacific Northwest. Check out my March 5, 2014 archives on the side of my page. Not that I did not like skiing with a group, but how therapeutic it is to spend time skiing by yourself and riding solo on a chairlift. You can look around, take in the views, think, and just enjoy the moment – by yourself.

As I get older, I am starting to enjoy riding my mountain bike by myself. Again, not that I don’t like riding with people, but when I can take the time and put on my Shokz earbuds and listen to calming music, it is a nice experience. I can ride at my own pace, I don’t have to chase or wait for anybody, and can just take in a beautiful day and a beautiful place.

Back in the old MTB racing days- riding solo happened here and there.

I showed a friend of mine the other day my route through one of my favorite places to ride. I stressed my enjoyment of riding at my own pace or what I call PPPP – Pat’s Pleasant Park Peddling. I like the humorous bumper sticker that says ” start slow and taper off.” LOL!! When we finished the ride- I showed my friend how to end the ride- which was to go right to a park bench under a tree and hop off the bike and sit down. I tend to look around at the changes that occur with the seasons and think about the next change that will be coming. I have a chance to keep listening to my music and thinking about a lot of things. What is important in life? How I value my family. And how it feels to be entering my 7th decade. But riding keeps you in the game and you don’t let a number define you. But when you ride solo, or hike solo, or run solo, or ski solo, you have the mental time to consider a lot of things that are important and eliminate those that are not.

I have always used my bike as a therapeutic tool to relax, think about things, and unload some occasional stress that comes into all of our lives. I used to do it on a road bike, but now, it is all on the mountain bike. No cars, no honking, no chipped ham sandwiches thrown at you, and especially no issues with people texting and not paying attention to your safety. Yes- trees don’t move, but I find that I feel safer on the MTB than the road bike. Plus ,the tranquility of the woods and the trails in my collection of favorite places to ride, aids in the therapeutic process.

Whether you ride a road bike, a gravel bike, or a mountain bike, there are times when you have the opportunity to ride by yourself. If you don’t ride, you can perhaps think about starting – easy and taper off. Riding a bicycle has been one of the great joys in my life as it is good exercise and also helps with dealing with the stressors of ordinary living. Again- no offense to my riding or skiing friends, but time spent by myself is well worth the ride.

So the next time your friends bail out for one reason or another, think about going out by yourself. Most bails are due to bad weather, but if you have the right clothing, you can enjoy riding in the rain, sleet or snow. And if it is by yourself, all the better. Pull that hood up, put on your music, and get that ride in anyhow. After you get cleaned up, you will be glad you did it. I am getting smarter the older I get. And making use of solo riding time is enjoyable more and more. Thanks for reading.

The Beer Tap at State College. Lots of solo rides in Rothrock.

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B.A.

Bob Anderson at the front.

You know, as you grow older, you start to lose people in your life. It starts with grandparents, uncles, aunts, sometimes siblings, parents, but then you start to lose your friends. It happened to me last week when I lost a good friend – Bob Anderson. Bob was tragically killed when he came into contact with a high voltage downed power line after a storm. I won’t get into the details of that but suffice to say that Bob is no longer with us and that is a true tragedy.

Bob and I have been friends for close to 40 years. Starting way back in the Greenlee’s Mountain Bike Team days, to skiing together and hanging out after rides. Bob was an educator at Central Catholic High School. He was a favorite teacher of many of the students there even though he was tough and demanding, with his curriculum of diet and exercise. Bob was an extremely fit mountain bike racer even at the age of 63. A plant- based eater, he always paid strict attention to his health and was a fierce competitor and was extremely hard to ride with as I am getting older. I kept telling him that nobody is going to the Olympics, but Bob finished second in a race three days before he died. I did way better having a conversation with Bob after a ride than during.

But the great thing about Bob was that there was much more to his character than just mountain biking and racing. He had a heart for people and was the first one to volunteer to guide blind skiers, put on soccer clinics, help out at his church, and in general, if you needed a hand, Bob was there for you.

Bob – second from left with the group from Adventurefest.

We all attended Adventurefest together which is an annual event of Christian men getting together for a weekend of camping, riding, and other activities in the great outdoors of the Laurel Highlands. Bob was taken aback when he heard testimonies on Friday night at the cross with guys who have come back to Christianity after a history of broken homes, marriages, substance abuse, incarcerations, and other life hardships. Bob was a Christian man whose faith meant a lot to him, and we all had wonderful discussions at the campfires at night and he was always inquisitive about faith and what it meant to him.

Sunday he went to church up at Adventurefest and was the first to volunteer to permanently erect the cross at the Boyer’s Pond Campground for future Adventuremen events. The cool thing about the cross is that after the men give their testimonies, they pound a nail into the cross to signify that they have put it all back on the cross and have given their life to the saving power of Jesus. Very important to Bob.

Bob and Shark signing autographs at the World Cup in Snowshoe, WVA. LOL!!

Bob was a kind father to his two daughters, Paige and Brooke, and talked about them often on our rides. People knew Bob as an amazing mountain bike racer. Strong and competitive, he trained diligently for a long time. But there was so much more to the guy and people are just now starting to realize the other parts of Bob’s life that were truly exemplary.

The tough part about losing friends is that in most cases there is a catastrophic illness involved. People taken before their time. And many in my age group. I have lost a number of friends this year and last year. I thank God every day for my health. But this situation was a tough one. There is a lot of talk about negligence where I do not have the expertise to accurately comment. But it sure seems like this could have been avoided. But I do know one thing- Bob is in Heaven today. He went from Adventurefest, sitting around a campfire and talking about the Lord, and now two weeks later he is with Him in eternity. Wow. From Adventurefest to Heaven. Amazing! Thanks for reading

” Be dressed, ready for service and keep your lamps burning.” Luke 12:3

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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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