Cold play

From Outside.com

On Saturday I went out to Lapham Peak for a bit of cross-country skiing. The last time I xc skied was more than 10 years ago, but I picked up the rhythm after a couple of miles. Wheel & Sprocket has a shack by the trails where we rented skis for $20. It felt great to get outside & actually enjoy the cold tundra.

I learned today that my mixer was one of my parents' wedding gifts. 32 years later my parents are divorced, but the mixer still mixes!

After a bit of post-holiday lounging, I've posted a few pics from Tanzania.

From Milwaukee to Phoenix

I rode 1759.2 miles in 2008; almost the distance from Milwaukee to Phoenix. The odometer still has the miles from 2007 (1730mi).

I just got back from Tanzania & I'm giddy. I sat down at my computer to check my neglected email accounts, and I just paused to take it all in. I couldn't stop smiling at the thought of reliable power, hot water, non-dirt floors, soap, and a comfortable bed.

Once again, I'm truely happy that I have a renewed sense of satisfaction & understanding for the posh lives we live as westerners. I don't want this feeling to go away, but it naturally will fade as I'm back home & I start to take these things for granted. That just means that I'll need to do another trip next year to renew my understanding & appreciation.

Even though it's -6F outside, I'm happy to be home for the holidays.

My first pass at packing for my trip to Tanzania... I'm packing for the full weather spectrum; 0F on the top of Kilimanjaro & a balmy 85F in the Serengeti.

Betsy rolls 170K. After 16 years, she's still going strong!

Today was the first day of snow in Milwaukee. It didn't amount to much; just icy roads. However, I've been stoked about the upcoming winter & snowboarding.

I ran across this movie - I will definately be purchasing this. Watch the trailers & be amazed.

http://www.thatsit-thatsall.com/

This is what happens when you forget the tent poles & adamantly demand to test out your new sleeping bag.

Your trash has arrived too late; my ballot has been cast!