Sunday Bike Rides

Summer Is Coming

2008-04-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

Well, it's getting closer to summer here in the Northwest.
My goal is a few bike rides this season.
Hope to see you on the road.

Tail Wind

2007-01-27T12:50:00.000-08:00

This is the way to go!

All tail wind, all the time (unless you're riding behind…)

http://www.thrustpac.com/

Sunday, Jan 21st 2007

2007-01-24T08:03:00.000-08:00

Sunday - Cold, Sunday!
Birch Bay to the Canadian Border Blaine
40 miles

A Gull on sentry duty

How Cold Was It?

Someone tried to bike through the snow - and this is all that's left.......

A winter scene - the roads were clear - but the snow still covers the untraveled parts of Whatcom county.

China: Kingdom of bicycles no more

2007-01-18T10:38:00.000-08:00

Interesting Article:
China: Kingdom of bicycles no more
The most populous country in the world is moving to a car-based economy, which is more bad news for global warming.

Read Article Here:
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/article/170671

Last Ride Of 2006! Arlington To Jim Creek

2006-12-31T19:01:00.000-08:00

Last Ride Of 2006! Arlington To Jim Creek

December 31, 2006
Miles: 22
Terrain: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 630

Many Buildings In Arlington Have Murals

As we left Arlington we passed an old church with a new electronic reader board. In addition to inviting us to service, it gave us the current temperature. A balmy 39 degrees.

Just short of the Tafton School House - our turn off - we stopped at the local gas & grocery.

Sitting there munching our peanut butter crackers on a bench worn smooth by many, we were greeted by the locals.

"How's the weather today, isn't a bit cold for a ride?"

"I'd join you but, I have to watch the Seahawks game instead..."

Were among the comments we received as they passed on their way in to buy milk, beer, chips and other Sunday essentials.

I kind of hated leaving the little store, with it's twig furniture and worn benches made from old tree trunks and horse shoes. It was a friendly little stop.

As we rode along we saw lots of evidence of the windstorm the Northwest experienced a few weeks ago. We saw lots of trees down, many standing tree trunks missing limbs, and a stretch of suspended powerlines sagging so badly someone had propped them up with a tree limb.

We only climbed 600 feet but that was enough to get us close to snow - there was a light dusting. It was nothing to prevent us from riding, just a reminder that this is winter.

Across the road from this scene an Alpaca watches me photograph

The ride was quite, along back roads. We heard dogs bark their warnings to move on and a few moos from the cows, but very few cars were on the roads.

About to head back down the hill - just before returning to Arlington the valley view was enough to stop for and to snap one more photo.....

For The Year:
My mileage odometer didn't quite make it to 1000 miles for the year. We were short a little under 75. What a change from our rides 10 years ago, when 1000 miles were done in less than a summer. My New Years resolution for 2007 - break the 1000 mile mark for the year.

Thinking Of The Sun!

2006-12-25T12:31:00.000-08:00

I took this picture on our bike ride to the islands in July. We haven't been out much lately - I'm ready to ride some more.

Merry Christmas From Rascal The Elf!

2006-12-25T09:59:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?userid=195404545311f49ac5e94ccG06122508

Biker Dogs

2006-12-18T10:40:00.000-08:00

OK, it's not exactly the kind of 'biking' I do but these dogs are great! Thought you'd enjoy them

http://freshpics.blogspot.com/2006/12/biker-dogs.html

Bicycle Helmets Put You at Risk

2006-12-14T15:25:00.000-08:00

Dany sent me this link:

Bicycle Helmets Put You at Risk

What about those helmets?

Oct 15th 2006

2006-11-27T16:58:00.000-08:00

This was a nice little fall ride. We started in Snohomish, rode over to Monroe for hot chocolate and then up High Bridge Road.

We stopped to catch our breath at a little farm, where city folk were choosing their pumpkins from a massive field. They rode a tractor down to the field, choose their pumpkins and then returned via tractor/hay ride enjoy country cider.

The other sign of fall was the deer. They are making their way down from the high grounds, to mingle with the low-landers for the winter. This young one was happily munching on tree leaves as we rode by.

Big Lake - Mt Vernon Oct 8th 2007

2006-11-27T16:50:00.000-08:00

Sixteen Lake

Miles: 38

Terrain: Hilly

Weather: Cloudy

We started this ride near I-5 in the little town of Conway. Before getting on our bikes we did a quick car detour up the hill to Sixteen Lake. I captured the photo above just as a lone fisherman was returning. He had enjoyed the morning sun, but when it went behind the clouds he decided to come in.

Our ride took us out east on 534, north on HWY 9 along Lake McMurray and then onto West Big Lake Blvd.

After a stop for lunch at a country store on the north shore of Big Lake we turned off HWY 9 and headed east. Looking over the meadow we could see it bathed in warm autumn light. I took the photo below facing west on Knapp Road - the road off in the distance is HWY 9.

Meadow along HWY 9

We could call this ride the "Lake Ride" - later in the day we passed Clear Lake, Mud Lake and Beaver Lake before starting our westward swing back to our car at Conway.

Riding south through the Skagit farming community the farmers were harvesting cucumbers. The scent of pickles mixed with fresh turned fall soil was our final sensation for the day.

Back to the car and hot chocolate.

November 26th 2006

2006-11-26T16:39:00.000-08:00

Sorry, I couldn't make myself go out today........

Sedro Woolley To Concrete Oct 8, 2006

2006-11-25T17:48:00.000-08:00

Concrete's Silo Park

Sedro Woolley To Concrete
Miles: 52
Terrain: FLAT

We started this ride Sunday morning - the trip from Everett to Sedro Wolley was in a downpour. The rain slammed into the Ford as we made our way north. We debated about turning around, or stopping, or just saying "fuck it, lets go to breakfast and say we did it."

As we pulled off the freeway towards Sedro Woolley the rain let up and we decided to give the ride a go.

When we pulled into the Park N Ride there was a small group of bicycle riders unloading. We were greeted by the ride leader as soon as we turned in.

These riders were up from the Seattle area as well - wondering what kind of day it was for a ride. As we introduced ourselves we meet a fellow with a gold mine of bicycling information. His name is Jim Eanes and he runs a site with current area bike maps. He runs seattlebiketours.org & is in the process of updating the maps from the local bike books. His website for those interested is: www.seattlebiketours.org - I'll be adding a link on this page soon.

Jims website if full of maps - some rides I've never done but I know we'll be doing a few of them soon.

Back to our Sunday adventure....

His group almost ready to leave, Jim ran over to us with a big bag of chocolate and offered - that's the fun thing about cycling, never having to say no to chocolate!

Off they went and a few minutes later we finished with our gear and headed out.

Our ride took us through farm land along the Skagit River. As I write this I'm sure the areas we rode last month are now underwater. One town (Hamilton) we rode through actually has markers on the building along the main street. They can mark how high the river flood waters rise every year.

A couple of the farms we passed along the river

When we reached Lymon we stopped to eat a bagel and stale Fig Newtons in the park across from the cemetery.

I must have run over something on my way out of the park. Just outside of town my back tire went flat. Our first flat of the year! Mr Tuffy finally gave out - on my ten year old tires.

D came to the rescue with tubes, a pump and tire irons. We soon had the tube changed, and were pumping the tire up again.... Except the air was leaking out as fast as we could pump it. Some glass was still inside the the tire and had punctured the new tube. I give my friend a hard time about carrying three of everything, but today it was lucky she had more than one tube.

Back off came the tire and another tube went in. The cows who had wandered across the pasture to watch us, got seriously bored the second time around. They finally wondered off, taking their noisy moo's with them, leaving us in country silence.

It was getting late by the time we finished installing the second tube. We were a little less than a quarter of the way out but we decided to go ahead and finish the ride.

I'm so happy we did. I was impressed by the beauty of the area. All of Washington is lush and green, but the country back rodes we traveled were among the prettiest I've seen.

By the time we made it Concrete, our turning back point, it was getting late. We only had a couple of hours of sun left and neither of us much liked the idea of riding in the dark. But just outside of Concrete we crossed the Skagit River over a suspension bridge. D - ahead of me, knew I'd want to stop for some photos and was already off her bike enjoying the view.

The view of the Skagit River in October

Our return ride back along the Skagit Highway offered peeks of the river as the sun got lower on the horizon. What a beautiful time to ride.

The rain threatened to let loose most of the morning, but by the end of the day the sun was out and allowed for some spectacular views, the suns warm evening rays against the bright fall yellows and reds.

We made it back to the car before dark. And drove home via HWY 9 with its fog filled valleys and lakes at dusk. Which made me think this area should be our next bike destination.

Sept 2006 - Monroe Flowing Lake

2006-11-22T14:48:00.000-08:00

Monroe - Flowing Lake Circle 34 miles Hilly

Total elevation gain: 1330 - terrain: Moderate

Fall is here! The colors were fantastic on this ride. The tree leaves were changing. When the wind kicked up we would find ourselves riding through a shower of falling leaves.

D dubbed this the last ride in shorts for the year. Me, I already had on my long riding tights and the winter gloves in the bike trunk.

We started (and ended) at the Snohomish Centennial Trail in Snohomish and headed east to Monroe.

After a quick stop in Monroe we headed out of town along Woods Creek Road. Watch out for the wild turkey.

We watched and slowed our speed, but never saw the turkey!

This ride was hilly ~^~^~^~^~

I almost never make it up a hill first- so when I actually made it up this one I had to photograph the event.

D at the top of another hill

Our final rest stop before returning to the bike trail was Flowing Lake Park. No campers here today. The park was quite - except for the sound of the wind & rain on the water. Formerly Leckies Resort (according to the guide book) this park is one little gem I've added to my "picnic there next season" list.

Flowing Lake Park

Out of the park back to the trail and car - it was nice to get into warm and dry clothes... Sunshine has gone. Rides for the next several months will have to end with hot chocolate.

Sept 30 2006

2006-11-20T17:54:00.000-08:00

Sunday - Sept 30th
Wiser Lake to Sumas in Whatcom County

Our first (almost) 50 mile ride this year.

And it wasn't on horse back!

We started the trip at the boat launch on E Wiser Lake Road went south east to Nugent's Corner.

On the top of a small rise we passed the Honey Shack.

Closed on Sunday - but inviting non the less - this little place included a carved bear at the entrance. I'm sure business is buzzing during the summer..... just had to say it.

The weather held - it was a cool overcast day, good for riding.

Riding down the hill just south of the Canadian Border I stopped for a photo of this pasture with horses.

On young colt ventured up to have a closer look at us. Two women riding the strangest two leg creatures he'd ever seen.

Into Sumas we rode along the south side of the border for a few miles before heading south through Nooksack, Everson and back to the car at Wiser Lake. Slightly short of 50 miles (48ish according to D's computer). This is the east loop of the Whatcom Century.

Sunday August 27, 2006

2006-08-29T10:10:00.000-07:00

Whidbey Island

Hills!

Sunday August 27, 2006

Everett To Mulkelto Ferry across to Whidbey Island

Sunny - Hot

Miles: Just under 40

After several months of talk about hilly Whidbey we decided we were ready for the challenge.

As we were reaching the top of the small hill photographed above a cyclists was riding towards us. As usual, we all waved and greeted each other. His passing remark to us: "You've almost got it made you only have 7 more hills to Langley"

I'm not sure how many hills it actually was - but it could have been seven....... By the time we made it to Langley we rode straight to the nearest cafe and I feel into a chair in the shade and filled up on ice tea. I don't think either D or I was quite ready to get back on our bikes and ride the final hills back to the ferry - but we unglued ourselves and headed back.

This is a photo of the sound heading out of Langely on Whidbey Island - wow, what a beautiful Island!

It was a great ride - but I'm not sure I was completely up to the challenge. As D says "Training for harder training" So, back to the drawing board and more hills.

Thanks for the helmet D!

Saturday August 19,2006

2006-08-25T17:16:00.000-07:00

"Big Shot - Cyrus James" Overpass

Well, I thought it was funny!

Ride: Tulalip Indian Reservation
Miles: Just under 30
Weather: Sunny

We started at the Tulalip Casino and circled around. We rode along a very hIlLy Marine Drive. We turned in and headed over to Lake Goodwin where we had lunch. At that point we were over 20 plus miles into the ride - and I was hungry! We stopped off at a convenience store where I bought and consumed: A chicken salad sandwich, a blueberry muffin, a chocolate bar, and as if that wasn't enough, I then had to chow down on D's peanut butter crackers. I can't believe after all that food, I got back on my bike and continued on.......

The roads were busy and the ride hilly. Not, a 5 star ride. I think next weeks ride holds more promise.... I'll let you know.

Saturday August 12, 2006

2006-08-16T17:55:00.000-07:00

August, 12, 2006
Edmonds to Kingston, South To Bainbridge - back to Seattle
Miles: 40ish
Weather: Sunny & Warm

Our normal Sunday ride was rescheduled - moved ahead to Saturday - and what a great day for a ride! We started at D's place in Shoreline - jumped on a ferry to Kingston - rode down to Agate Pass into Vashion. The weather was perfect for a ride!

Today, people seemed more belligerent than ever about sharing the road with bicycles. We were honked at, yelled at, and even threatened as cars passed close and cut in front of us. Why all the hostility? - To swerve into a bicycle is pure bullying - and honestly, what the fuck is a the hurry on a Saturday afternoon on the islands? Do motoristist really think we are such a threat to their well being? We're just a group of people out for some fresh air and a little exercise.

OK - that said, back to blogging!

The islands are unique their art is truly unique. The samples we saw today were fun flavored.

This fellow and several other carvings decorate highway 104 outside of Kingston.

We stopped for a look at the resting place of chief Seattle.

D - wanted a picture of the plaque. Here you go:

Heading south we crossed Agate pass onto Bainbridge Island. We stopped to take a picture of the famous green frog - bicyclists see when at the beginning of the "Chilly Hilly" ride in February. He is at the top of one of many, many, many hills....

After several more hills, and a few miles of beautiful island country we arrived at the ferry.

On the return voyage, I couldn't resist a shot of the city skyline. Who could? Seattle on a sunny, summer day.....

The return part of the loop took us through Myrtle Edwards park, over the Ballard Bridge and on to Shoreline. I was completely exhausted at the end of the ride, but don't let that fool you. I'd do it again anytime D wants to!

My deepest sympathy goes to Marie Hebeler and family.

Bob Hebeler died on Friday August 11th, from injuries he received in a cycling accident when he was struck by a vehicle while riding near Santa Cruz, California.

Bob Hebeler was an avid cyclist and while out on one of his many regular rides, was involved in a terrible accident. He died from injuries sustained in the accident. Cycling was one of Bob's great passions. He died doing something that he truly loved.

Friday - July 14, 2006

2006-07-26T15:40:00.000-07:00

Edmonds To Port Gamble & Hood Canal Loop
Distance: 47 miles (our longest ride this year)
Weather: Sunny & Warm

Sunday's bike ride was moved to Friday this week - so we could celebrate Leah's Birthday.

We started around 1:30 in the afternoon and arrived back in Edmonds as it was getting dark around 9:00 pm.

On our way over we met Punto (Spanish for Spot) a seven month old motorcyle Chihuahua out for a ride with his owner.

Spot Out For A Ride

The clouds were beautiful against the blue summer sky and I spent most of the ride trying to capture them - below is how they looked when we came into the ferry dock at Kingston. We wondered if it would be rain on the ride, but they blew past quickly. Leaving us to put on and take off sweatshirts all afternoon.

When we arrived at Port Gamble we stopped for Smoothies and watched as the town was being transformed into a Renaissance Village for a coronation. One fellow who was directing traffic looked like a character out of the Three Mustakeers. We both had to admit that he was very dashing - however, I would have prefered to see a woman dressed in his outfit - now, that would have been something to see!

We arrived back in Edmonds and rode back to Shoreline. I kept hearing only one more hill to go, but they seemed to keep poping up after every turn. When we finially made it to out last downhill of the day - one we could enjoy coasting down I noticed this sunset and had to stop.... at take one last photo.

Sunset at about 9:15 over the Puget Sound - Looking west toward the Kitsap Peninsula

July 9, 2006 Fall City To Snoqualmie & Carnation

2006-07-10T16:51:00.000-07:00

Who says Cats Don't Have Work Ethics?

Date: July 9th

Weather: Sunny & Warm

Distance: 30 miles

We started in Fall City and rode towards Snoqualmie Falls. We cut off of 202 and took a back rode along the river. Fish Hatchery Rd has several runs along the river. The sound of the water rushing and birds chirping made it an ideal setting for a summer ride. At every bend we could see rafters, swimmers and dogs in the water.

We returned to 202 to complete the climb to Snoqualmie. It took about 15 minutes of climbing to get to the top. It was a hot ride to the top, but we made it! We were both very proud we could ride to the top. The last time we rode to Snoqualmie was at least 8 years ago.

The falls were as beautiful as ever - in fact, just like a painting.

We rode into the town of Snaqualmie to see the trains. They have a large museum of trains - and at least a mile of old trains along train tracks on the hwy 202. Some are restored, others - just old and rusting - I love to look at them. D was a very good sport - I'm sure she thinks I'm nuts - 'cause I just had to ride over to see them. We rode along the tracks to the end of the town of Snoqualmie then turned around and back tracked - down into Fall City.

Heading north out of Fall City we rode along Neal Road - which is a small paved road that is closed to car traffic. This lane follows the river as it bends and curves through the valley. The Before entering Carnation we rode along the Valley River Trail - a dirt & gravel trail that goes through Carnation.

The return from Carnation took us over Tolt Hill Road - which was closed for construction. No work was being done on Sunday, so we went around the barricades and crossed the bridge (which was in the process of being repaved) then onto a dirt packed road - which used to be paved.
We had our doubts, but thought we try the road for a bit instead of turning around. Judging by the bike tracks many had before us.
The road returned to pavement after a half block. Back on pavement we road along the west side of the Snaqualmie River. We rode through the wetlands, by farms and, of all things, a couple of golf courses.....
The clouds in the afternoon were hanging as if painted in the sky. Right before we returned to Fall City, I stopped to snap this shot.

It was a fantastic ride, on a perfect day.

July 2, 2006

2006-07-05T17:43:00.000-07:00

Duval To Carnation - Loop
Miles: 25
Weather: Perfect! Sunny, with a tail wind and not too hot.

This leisurely ride started at the Park & Ride in Duval then south to Carnation. The map book mentioned a bakery - long gone. At the Carnation Starbucks we stopped for ice tea and sandwiches.

The ride was mostly flat, with one easy hill at the start.

We saw more riders out today than we have all year long. The good news is that we seemed to be doing the loop in the opposite direction.

How nice to not constantly hear: "On your left" as the bike speed demons pass.

The pace was really an amble - I had stop frequently to take photos - because as D stated:

"It's like being in a postcard"

Sunday was a perfect Northwest summer day - we couldn't have asked for more.

We often see hand made signs along the road - usually political - sometime sad....

June 25, 2006

2006-06-26T11:09:00.000-07:00

Centennial Trail - North to Lake Stevens & East To Marysville - back to Snohomish

Temperature: 88 degrees and SUNNY

Est Distance: 32 miles

Hot, sunny, hilly sums up this ride. We normally use guide books to direct us. Most of the time the are perfect, they guide us street by street and always include a map. Today was a different story. Our guide failed us a couple of times. After a few wrong turns in the heat what I'll remember most was going UP doing Soper Hill Road from both sides. We missed the turn to Sunnyside Blvd. You know you've got a climb whenever the word 'Hill' is in the road name. To be fair to the guide book and D's excellent leading abilities; there is a big climb at the end of Sunnyside Blvd - and we had plenty of sunshine so riding down a road named "Sunnyside" might not have been the best.

We cut off the Centennial Trial at the south end of Lake Stevens. We stopped in town for Ice Tea at a local coffee house. There was covered outside seating and every table was full of people and their dogs. There were big ones, medium size and small ones - people and dogs that is. One person/dog team arrived via bicycle.

While D was inside ordering Ice Tea I asked if I could photograph them. D came out to find me taking the photos below.

Jack in the Backpack - rides everywhere. She only jumped out once. It was an evening when the rabbits were out. What Jack Russell could resist? They don't ride along the rabbit trail anymore.

They're off.

It was a fantastic day to be out on a bike - with or without your best friend.

I was lucky to have mine, and so was this woman.

Sunday June 18th

2006-06-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

No ride today.

This is a photo of Mandy. She's an 8 week old retriever we met on our last bike ride. She was walking in the park while we were getting ready to hit the road.

Next week the Centennial trail?

Happy Birthday D!

2006-06-18T18:23:00.000-07:00

I hope we travel many more roads!
June 8th - Thursday
D - 50!

We started at Jennings Park in Marysville - to Lake Cassidy Wetlands and around Lake Stevens.
Hilly!
We stopped in the town of Lake Stevens for tea and hot chocolate. The high school kids were parading down main street, heads out the window - horns honking and yelling.
Guess school graduation must be near.

June has been wet this year. The rain held off until we hit the final hill - Soaper Hill Rd. By the time we returned to Marysville it was just a mild drizzle.

June 4, 2006

2006-06-04T18:52:00.000-07:00

Too wet to ride!

Lopez Island

2006-05-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

Lopez Island 35 1/2 Miles
Sunday, May 28th
Wet

Upon arrival at 7:01 a.m. D asked: "Why don't we just put our bikes in the shower all day?" It had been raining heavily here for days and this morning it was pouring. I thought it was a great idea, instead of spending the day cold and wet we could just go directly to a bakery........

We decided to go ahead and try. The San Juan Islands are in what we Washintonians call the "banana Belt" The islands nestle in the shadow of the mountains and are often times dry when the rest of the state is wet.

During tourist season you can be assured of a spot on the ferry only if you ride your bike or walk on. A typical summer wait on the ferry to the islands can run hours for car traffic. We were running late because I was confused about the leaving time. When D arrived I was brushing my teeth, and the bike wasn't out of the bike shed. We made a mad dash to get it loaded and on our way. With the rain coming down, visibility low, and traffic cops on every over pass I felt fairly safe in knowing we'd never make the ferry in time. The next one would put us too late to ride the island - so we'd be spared a ride in this crazy weather.......

We arrived at the loading dock just as they were lifting the cord for the bicycles to load.

The wet ferry ride

The rain came down and clouds hung low most of the ferry trip to the island.

And:
Just like magic, as we started pulling into the Lopez dock the downpour started to let up.

As we pull into Lopez the rain lets up

Before ascending the first hill of the day we stopped at the small ferry car park to put on rain gear and to take this photo.

The ferry leaves Lopez on it's way to Shaw, Orcus and Canada

As we finally started up the hill out of the lot a grouchy ferry announcer was calling the next ferry:

"Attention, everyone with a motorcycle or scooter going to Shaw Island must pay at the walk up window before boarding. Again, anyone with a motorcycle or scooter must pay at the walk up window."

She paused for a second, then added:

"The walk up window won't come to you."

And we were off.

I think it'll be a long tourist season for her.

The ride was pleasant. We only had a few minutes of rain during the ride. We rode on country roads with very little traffic. The islanders are very friendly. They rely on each other - so community on the islands is strong. One tradition they've developed is waving hello when they approach. So as you ride along the islanders wave from their vehicles. What a wonderful contrast to the metro drivers who honk and yell as the pass at top speed.

All day long we saw bald eagles, hawks, deer & rabbits.

A young fawn watches us as we ride by

About halfway around the island our guide book wrote of a bike rest stop behind the Lopez Volunteer Fire Station. We thought that would be the perfect place to get off the bikes, eat some trail mix and crackers. The facilities were a bit minimal and picnic bench wet, but the rest stop had a charm about it. Maybe because it was hidden away from the road, covered by trees.

The bike rest stop

If you read the guide books about bicycling the San Juan Islands they will all tell you Lopez is the flat island and the most bike friendly. That is certainly true compared to Orcus or San Juan Islands. Compared to the most other rides, it's quite hilly.

All day long we passed what I'd call - well, "Sunday Riders" They are the folks who haven't been on bikes since childhood. They come to the island for a nice day trip; mom & her pre-teen son up from Seattle, two young lovers out for the day, a new mom, her infant being pulled in a buggy by the proud father.

It sounds pretty romantic.

However, when you're not in shape to ride, the 30 miles of hills collects it's toll! I often joke about myself going up some hills so slow that I'm just going to fall over. Today, the joke became a reality. On one of the last hills of the day, I collected my road rash. I was peddling so slow I decided it was time to get off and walk. However, I was too tired to make the mind - connect the command to the feet - "get out of those toe clips" and slowly... Very slowly.... Down I went.

The view on the way down

One the very last hill of the day, one final time, we passed the young mom & dad walking their bikes up the hill. As I finally caught up to the walking dad, me riding... Just a tad bit faster than his walk, I look over and joked "we're almost to the top now" he laughed, sweat pouring down his face and dripping onto his shirt and blue jeans and responded "oh, thank gawd!"

Back at the ferry dock at last and off those bike seats.

The sun was out. The ferry was over an hour before arrival. We purchased cokes from the vending machine and settled into a mellow stupor. During the hour more of the Sunday Riders started returning to the dock. As we sat munching on our newtons an old truck pulled into the parking lot carrying two shiny new black bikes. It was an islander helping the young lovers return to the ferry. He unload the bikes while the young fellow unloaded his gal from the truck. Her ankle was swollen, black & blue and probably broken or sprained beyond use for the next several weeks.

It seems Lopez, while being the most bicycle friendly of the islands, takes no prisoners.

The ferry returns for all the Sunday Riders

I completely enjoyed the ride. The quiet, peaceful island was a welcome break. We've put Lopez Island on our "do again" list, and are now working up to Orcus and San Juan.

D's New Bike

2006-05-22T15:13:00.000-07:00

Novara Randonee Bike - 2006

Coffee Color

27 gears!

The maiden voyage for D's new Bike

Sunday, May 21, 2006

34.1 miles

Started at Bothel Landing, rode along a very busy Sammamish River trail. We dodged inline skaters, the racing boys with all their fancy gear, kids on bikes, walkers and even a fellow who had a Bearded Dragon on his shoulder. We went through Marymoore park and then north to Maltby. As we entered Woodenville via 240th St SE we descended one of the steepest grades I've done. It was short and fast, about three blocks long. Now D knows the new bikes brakes are in order!

It started out to be a sunny day so the rain gear was left at home (at least mine was). As the day progressed the clouds got darker. By the time we returned to the car the drops were starting - another hour and the sky's were letting loose with a downpour.

The new Novara Randonee took it all in stride. The only thing that needed tweaking was the seat position.

May 14th - The View On Engebreston Road

2006-05-15T15:06:00.000-07:00

Mt Pilchuck ~ This is the view heading east. We were on the last miles of the loop bicycling east on Engebreston Road returning to Granite Falls.

Sunday May 14 2006

2006-05-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

Sunday, May 14th
Sunny & Warm
Granite Fall To Arlington 28.7 miles

We stopped at Jordan to look at the suspension bridge over the Stillaguamish River. Crossing the bridge was an old fellow with an old dog. The dog in a friendly sort of way came over to us to say hello.
While he was getting scratched behind the ear, the question came up:
"How old is you dog?"
Old Fellow: " I don't know. I go walking up the Jordan hill and when I came back down I meet this fellow who had this dog. When I asked this fellow about the dog he stated IT'S NOT MY DOG, do you want him? Now you girls I'm going to tell you what he told me, you are girls ain't ya?"
US: "Yes"
Old Fellow: "Well these days it's hard to tell." he took another quick look at us in our bicycle clothes and continued.
Old Fellow: "Now this is what that fellow with the dog told me: This dog belongs to my 'God Damn'
his words.... not mine....wife." the fellow takes a quick look at the pooch who's snuffling around and continues.
Old Fellow: "She's back east somewhere, I don't know where, and took off with the savings account and checkbook. If you want this mutt he's yours.. I'm going to get rid of him."
US: Ohhhh...
Old Fellow: "Well I took him. He sleeps in bed with me, up on the pillow. That night he came up and nuzzled up to me on my pillow and I started laughing, laughed and laughed.... Couldn't stop laughing..... I thought it was so funny, here I haven't slept in the same bed with anyone for over 40 years and now I have this dog sleeping with me. He's such a sweet little dog."
D: " What's his name?"
Old Fellow: "Milo, that guy never told me his name and when my grand daughter asked me I had to tell her I didn't know. So, she named him."
The old guy reached into his pocket and pulled out a handfull of Reeces Peanut Butter Cups and handed us each one. "Here" he said, "But you gotta pucker up before you eat them" and off across the bridge he and D started.

Around Lake Washington

2006-05-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

Sunday April 30, 2006

Looked like it might rain so we carried all our rain gear - full bags. It turned out to be a mild, partly cloudy day.

The ride was mostly flat - 23 miles. Took us a little over 2 hours total ride time.

Started at Marymoor park and ended in Maryrmoor the route followed east and west Lake Sammamish roads. We stopped at Lk Sammamish State Park where this above photo was taken.