Champagne from a Paper Cup

I guess the title could have said "make hay while the sun shines" but I thought that might sound too colloquial. My point is the weather, my work-load and the world in general have been pretty hectic of late. But despite that, I need to focus on the positive.

So, here are the "highlights". Fall has been beautiful here this year. Even with the gloom and rain, the forests and fields have been amazing. All month it has been a joy to walk the trails as it has been in a constant state of flux.

The boyz really enjoy running around in the leaves but often get lost sometimes as the trail disappears from sight.

The sunsets have been beautiful and often enhanced by the cloudy overcast skies. Rene and I have sat down by the river a number of times in the past couple weeks to take in the light show.

Between rainstorms I have been able to get out and ride and it is a treat for the eyes too. Every tree lined road is a canopy of color and you just have to stop once and awhile to take it in.

And then, there is cross season. It really has been fun regardless of my finishes and I am looking forward to this weeks event at Richmond Park despite the possible rain in the forecast. The last race was a great course with a mix of true cross challenges like a never ending series of s-bends and some MTB style, rooted trails. It was fast and the weather was great. I could not muster up the skill or ability to beat Kirk (pictured below in the red jersey and blue helmet) to the finish line but we were neck and neck the whole race! The loaner Challenge Grifos from Ted at Ada Bike were awesome and as a result, I made a purchase the next week for a similar treaded tire by Vittoria. We will see how they compare at this weeks event.

So, life goes on and the dance continues. I guess you either have to join in and find a way to enjoy it or become a bitter, grumpy old man. Well, lets just try to avoid being grumpy then!

Moon, Turn the Tides . . . Gently, Gently

Unfortunately, despite my constant whining the weather here has continued to be cold and rainy and November-like in October. After a September of 85% sunshine and abnormally warm temps, we are enjoying 3% sunshine and temps 10 degrees below normal. Sounds like Cross season to me!

Speaking of which, I entered race #2 at Highland Park two weeks ago and enjoyed a big move towards the podium, leaping from 34th to 32nd place in the standings with my stellar performance. And all while mugging for the cameras!

Since then we have had little good weather for riding but when I do get out, the fall scenery can be spectacular. Harvest time is in full swing too, so this is a constant sight along most of my gravel road routes.

The mornings can be frosty and foggy, but once and awhile we are treated to a light show spectacular.




Last weekend, we stopped procrastinating and spent Saturday downtown enjoying the final day of ArtPrize. This was a artistic competition brought to Grand Rapids by one of the Amway co-founders son's (I won't hold that against him!) and it appears to have been a success. From all accounts, the revenue brought to our local economy by visitors and residents alike was substantial (and a welcome boost!) Plans are in the works for a 2010 version as we speak.

I was able to get out once this week (between rain and darkness) to ride the famed Luton trail. The park is in its peak of fall beauty, so I just had to stop periodically to capture some of it. However, that cuts down on riding time. I was only able to get in two laps before dark.

This weekend is Round #3 of Kisscross; Caledonia Park. I have not entered this race before so I am looking forward to a new venue. Weather outlook is favorable now (hopefully this doesn't jinx it!) with sun and mid-50's temps. I am trying out some new tires this week thanks to my friendly Ada Bike wrench Ted. Challenge Griffo skinwall clinchers! Real cyclocross tires. Should be the difference between 31st and 32nd place for sure!

Have a great Friday and a wonderful weekend!