Aemon

My boy Aemon had his class pictures taken, and he is looking good!  I have not been able to see him or his brother Lochlin in person for well over a year now. Maybe it will come together at some point.  Try to stay in touch by phone and facetime, but not the same as being able to spend time with them.

Fancy Dancer Indian Bustle

Alas I have finished another project.  This one took some time to build and I was on/off with it, as it was a lot of repetitive work to complete.  But I managed to push through and straitened all the feathers and then tied off each of the colored feathers and taped up. I have a place in the basement to hang this, I just need to go do it.

Reobrix T6 Shuttle

I must admit, this build was truly enjoyable! It marked my first experience with Reobrix, and I was genuinely impressed by the clear instructions and the quality of the bricks. They resemble Lego bricks but come at a much more affordable price point. The T6-Shuttle build, comprising over 5,000 pieces, resulted in a substantial final model. I've already disassembled it, carefully repackaged, and boxed it up for safekeeping. Perhaps in the future, I'll recreate this build, and if fortunate, I might even share the experience with one of my grandkids. The prospect of building it together with them sounds like a delightful idea!

Happy Easter

Hope you're having a joyous Easter! Our day kicked off with a leisurely e-bike ride to the Zoo. The weather, while warming up, carried a slight breeze that added to the pleasant ride. Surprisingly, there were already many early visitors at the Zoo. As regular members, we enjoy the flexibility of visiting the Zoo frequently without worrying about reservations. Parking our bikes upfront made it convenient for us to explore the Zoo, taking breaks for coffee and snacks as we strolled among the animals. Around 1 PM, we headed back home, changed, then set off to meet Clark and Haley for a late Easter lunch. It was a wonderful way to conclude the day in celebration with loved ones. Happy Easter to all!

Lego

So let's see, what's next on the list to catch up on?  Well I guess we can talk about Lego.  I am a big Lego
fan, own a couple of sets, but mainly enjoy building them.   I was able to keep together most of the Lego sets that the kids had growing up.  Wish we had taken better care and kept the boxes they came in. Oh Well.  One thing for sure is that Lego are expensive.  So a while back, I came across Temu, and was looking at various products, figuring this site was a scam, and you would either not receive your order, or what you got what is no way what you were thinking you were going to get.

Roll forward a few months and now they have a commercial airing during the Super Bowl.  Well I decided to take another look.  What caught my eye the first time was building block sets, that looked just like Lego.  Being that Lego patent had expired several years back, there are several competitors out there that I was unaware of.   They have similar designs and a similar packaging look.  Even so, I was still doubtful about them, but decided to take a chance.  

I ordered two sets off of Temu and happily they arrived.  Came about a week and half after I ordered them.  Unlike Lego, who boxes, the box the Lego sets come in.  Thus helping keeping the packaging in great shape.   My order from Temu showed up, in the original packaging, so they are decent, but taped up as you can see in the pics.

I ordered two different brands Reobrix and Mould King from Temu, and I also looked at the sites for both.  The prices on Temu were heavily discounted as I was able to get both sets for under $200.00.  I have started to assemble the Reobrix Star Revenge set that contains 5749 pieces.   I must say so far it is just like working with Lego, pieces are the same, and the instructions are just as easy to follow.  Even the packaging is similar to how Lego packages as well.  Once I get it completed I will share some pics.   

What up Bitch!

What up bitches! Been a while, I know but get over it. 

So much stuff going on, but my lazy ass has a problem getting consistent in writing it all down. So work is crazy, which is the way we like it, as long as it is crazy good work. That's the goal, keep customers happy, deliver and you have a true partnership. 

But anyway, so what I have been up to. Lets go with some bullet points, and then I can remember what to come back and write about. As I get older I have been working on my memory. I just stopped listing to people, and wow I have less shit to remember.

• The Boys (Ameon & Lockland)
• Work
• Fancy Dance Bustle
• Not real Lego, but just as good.
• Rad Runner Riding & Tune up
• Weather
• Walking
• VHS to Digital Conversion
• Travel
• Food
• Zoo
• North Bros. Tree Stands
• My Tunes

OK, So I have some topics to write up and share.  Now I am not sure where to start.  Need to go take a few pics and download some things that I can share.  

I finished working on my American Indian Fancy Dress Bustle.   It took me a while to complete and I could have done a better job.  It was also a messy project with feathers floating around the room, from the cutting and trimming I had to do.   Well it's done, need to take some pics to share.  It's in the basement letting everything dry/set.   I found a place to hang it, and that's what I am waiting on before I take the pics, as I have two other pieces that will accompany it on the wall and think it will be pretty bad ass.  So more to come on this, later this week.

Big week at work for me coming up.  I have several team members flying in as we are have what is called a Sale Kick Off i.e. SKO for short.  It is a lot to prepare for and I want to make sure that is worth everyone's time and brings value.  It's a diverse group so what my apply to some may not apply to others and vice-versa.   Main thing to remember is, Dennis keep your cool.  Not that I wouldn't, but it can be very stressful. 

Well if I have to knock an item of the list I will go with an easy one.  Let's start with my lamps and the North Bros. Tree Stands.  I have written about these before and shared several pics.   

Well I did a couple things that were new this go around.  Instead of going with the original back and
gold, I opted for Blue/Gold and Green/Gold, and I have to say I am extremely please with the results on these.  

I also came up with a way to turn the smaller stand into lamps as well.  I was struggling with how to mount them.  For the larger stands a 4 Inch ceiling lamp holder works great, with just a little modification.  For the smaller ones I couldn't find any 2 inch lamp mounts that would really work for my need.   I came across some metal cups a while back, and figured out a way to mount them.   They work great and the smaller lamps take up a smaller footprint, which is great as well.  

I have included pics of the process, well the paint process.  I dissemble them and then bead blast them to remove unwanted paint and rust. Then any remaining clean up, I hit with the my wire wheel on the my grinder.   I soak the parts in acetone to give them a final clean before painting.  First I apply the solid colors, in this case Blue and Green, once dry I then apply the Gold, using a paint pen.   Once everything is dry, I then hit it with a coat of urethane to seal the pieces.    Then we move to assembly, I leverage all the original bolts and nuts when I can.   I usually place them in the tumblr for 48/hours and that clean up nicely.

reassembly is pretty easy and I am please with the outcome.  I have know idea what I am going to do with all these, but I do have fun bringing them back to life. 

Happy Holidays

Hey there, folks! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to each and every one of you! I hope the holiday season has been treating you well, allowing you to kick back and enjoy some well-deserved time off. As for us, this year has been a bit low-key. We decided to stay home due to my work piling up, even though it broke my heart not being able to travel to Kansas. But sometimes, responsible choices outweigh our desires.

On Christmas Eve, we gathered at home, and our son Clark joined us in the festivities. Oh boy, did we indulge! We ate, we drank, and we might have gone a tad overboard. But hey, it's the holidays, right? And then came the moment we had all been waiting for—the gift exchange! Wrapping paper flew, and laughter filled the room as we unveiled our surprises. It was a special moment, one that will be treasured.

Christmas Day called for our usual buffet outing. With just the three of us, going out was easier and

spared us from spending the entire day in the kitchen and cleaning up afterward. Plus, having Clark's girlfriend join us made it an even more delightful dinner. We laughed, shared stories, and savored the delicious flavors of the season.

Back at home, we stumbled upon a new game called Ranson Notes. It was easy to understand and provided us with hours of entertainment. We immersed ourselves in friendly competition, creating memories that will bring smiles to our faces for years to come.

Amidst the holiday cheer, there was a tinge of sadness. Neither my sister nor I could make it to Kansas for the holiday, leaving our mom to spend it alone. It weighed heavily on our hearts, but we did what we could to make it special, showering her with love through phone calls and messages. Hopefully, next year, if circumstances allow, we'll all be able to come together and celebrate as a family.

Today, or what would have been his birthday, I'm reminded of someone dear who left us almost three years ago. Clark reached out with a heartfelt message about missing his grandfather, and it resonated deeply with me. Thoughts of our loved one filled my mind throughout the day. Pop, you're always in our thoughts, and we miss you dearly.

But there's another piece of our hearts that's far away—our son Eric, his wife Shannon, and our grandkids Aemon and Lochlan. It's been over 10 long months since we last saw them, and truth be told, we're not sure when we'll be reunited. Papa took on the task of shopping for the little ones this year, trying his best to stay hip with what's cool amongst the younger crowd (well, the 2 and 4-year-olds, that is!). We were lucky enough to have a couple of FaceTime calls and receive some precious pictures. Oh, how we long to be with them during the holidays! But we understand that life takes its own course, and sometimes we have to wait a little longer. Maybe next year will bring us all together again.

As we bid farewell to this holiday season, let's hold onto the hope of brighter days, where we can embrace our loved ones once more. Though distance can be tough, the love we share transcends any physical barriers. Until then, let's cherish the memories we have, and eagerly anticipate the moments yet to come. Here's to a future filled with reunions, laughter, and endless joy.

SuperStar

 

Aemon got his photo in the community new outlet where he lives.  They had a community get together and the boy was making up some smores.  

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you had a wonderful and festive celebration, no matter how you chose to commemorate the day. As for me, my family and I decided to break tradition and dine out at a restaurant. It was a small gathering with just myself, Candy, and my Mom. We figured it would be a nice change of pace from spending the morning cooking and the afternoon cleaning up. Plus, we didn't want to end up with an excessive amount of food that would go to waste, especially after indulging in leftovers for a day or two. Our meal was delicious, complete with all the classic sides as well as turkey and prime rib. I suspect my Mom has some tasks lined up for me tomorrow to keep me occupied.

The holiday season has arrived, and we find ourselves in Wichita for a few days to celebrate Thanksgiving with family. We embarked on our journey across I-70 today, which was slightly more bustling than anticipated - seems like everyone is traveling to meet their loved ones. Our departure was delayed somewhat, and having the dogs with us called for additional pit stops along the way. Now that we've arrived, we're eager to relish some quality time with my mother and enjoy some delicious food.

Happy 4th, Just Now Catching Up

Hope you had an amazing 4th of July! I've been a bit slow in updating the blog, and now I'm racking my brain to remember what we did on that day.

Oh yes, it's coming back to me now. We embarked on an enjoyable bike ride up old High Drive and then descended via Gold Camp Road. It was a nostalgic trip down memory lane as I used to hike this area frequently, and it was interesting to observe some alterations, mostly for drainage purposes. This was our inaugural bike journey on this route, and it was truly enjoyable with the bikes performing splendidly. What caught my eye was the growing popularity of e-bikes, especially the mountain bike variants, on the trails. They certainly looked enticing.

We made it home by 10:00 AM, ready to kick off the day's celebrations. Our plan was simple, just grill some burgers and hot dogs. Clark joined us a bit after noon. Given the heat of the 4th, we were in need of some cooling refreshments, and so we started concocting Mojitos.  That's when the fun really began.

I had some paracord and buckles to make some bracelets.  So we all cut our cords to length and after watching a short reminder video, we were on our way.  We whipped out some nice bracelets.  It really doesn't take long and its just being repetitive in how you braid the cord.  Luckily had some great colors to choose from

and I think they came out really nice.  I have several already that I have made for Candy and I, so we sent Clark home with the ones we made.  Time for another Mojito!

It was time to fire up the grill, I am going to need to replace our grill at some point, it pretty old and half the burners work.  We cooked up some burgers, hot dogs.  Candy cut up some watermelon we had potato salad and some other fixings. 

 After the bike rides and having a couple of cocktails we were all ready for a bite to eat.  Luckily I didn't burn the burgers and dogs.  Late in the afternoon, we had a little storm blow in and cooled things off, which was nice.  As evening approached we popped off a few fire crackers and then lit some sparklers.  It was a nice time had by all.

Good Times

The break of dawn signaled the start of an adventure that was long overdue. I meticulously scanned my gear checklist, ensuring every essential had been packed. The last thing I wanted was to leave behind a vital piece of equipment. My backpack was brimming with anticipation, just like me, as it was loaded into the back of my trusty truck. My companion, Candy, and I were off to pick up our fellow adventurer, Clark.

As we pulled up to Clark's home, he was as ready as ever, his own pack swiftly joining mine in the back of the truck. The road ahead beckoned us, the promise of the wild filling our hearts with excitement. Our first pitstop was the local liquor store, where we each picked up a pint of CR to toast to our journey later. Next, we swung by Jersey Mikes, our favorite sandwich joint, to arm ourselves with some hearty subs for the road. While Candy and Clark devoured theirs during the drive, I decided to save mine for when hunger would strike later.

We hit the road by 10:30 am, embarking on an hour-long journey on highway 115. This route was undergoing a facelift with expansions and replacements, adding a bit of a challenge to our drive. Nevertheless, we made it to our designated turn-off and started traversing a rustic country dirt road. The rough terrain and serpentine curves slowed us down, but it only added to the thrill of the adventure.

Finally, we reached the trailhead, our gateway to the wilderness. We hoisted our packs onto our backs, tightened our belts, checked our gear one last time, and set off. Candy accompanied us for the first mile before bidding us goodbye and returning to the truck. She was to come back the next day around noon to collect us.

Clark and I marched on, and shortly, we were greeted by the gurgling waters of a creek. It was labeled a creek on the map, but it roared with the intensity of a river. This was the first of our many encounters with the creek as we ventured deeper into the canyon. The first crossing was a breeze; we managed to bypass the deep water and continue on the path. But further into the canyon, the creek widened, the water rushed rapidly, and the bed was strewn with slippery rocks and boulders. Thankfully, I had packed my hiking poles, which proved to be lifesavers. Clark and I divided the pair between us, using them for support during the eight times we had to cross the creek.

As we ascended the canyon, we kept an eye out for potential campsites. After some searching, we
stumbled upon an ideal spot—an open meadow area with easy access to the mountain side in case of sudden rain, and trees perfect for hanging our hammocks. Wet boots and socks were the first things to go, replaced with dry footwear—comfort was key here.

Setting up camp was our next task. We gathered rocks and boulders to construct a fire pit, strung our hammocks between sturdy trees, unpacked our sleeping bags, and prepared our headlamps for later use. With our temporary home established, it was time to fish. Armed with our fishing poles, we scouted the creek for promising spots. It didn't take long for Clark to reel in a sizable trout, much to our delight. He managed to catch another one later, while I wasn't as lucky. We followed a catch-and-release policy, so after snapping some pictures, the fish were returned to their home.

As dusk descended, we built a small fire, reminiscing about the day's adventures and Clark's lucky catches. I finally dug into my sandwich, sharing half with Clark, and we enjoyed our pints. However, the tranquility was disturbed by pesky gnats. They were attracted to the salt and moisture on our skin, making us prime targets. Despite the bug spray we had brought, the gnats remained undeterred. Our only relief was sitting near the smoke from the fire, which seemed to keep them at bay.

As the evening progressed, we whipped out our Jet Boil to prepare our dehydrated meals. Clark chose Chicken Teriyaki, and I went for Beef Stroganoff. After boiling water and pouring it into the bags, we stirred the contents and waited. The result was far from gourmet, but it was hot, filling, and tasted delightful after a long day of adventure.

As the night cloaked us in darkness, we let the fire dwindle and die out. Climbing into our hammocks,
we snuggled into our sleeping bags, suspended between the trees. Sleeping in a hammock wasn't as uncomfortable as one might think, though I found myself wishing for a pillow to achieve that perfect comfort level.

Sleep, however, proved elusive. The unfamiliar sounds of the wilderness kept me on high alert, my ears pricking up at every rustle or snap. Every noise seemed like a potential bear or mountain lion sneaking into our camp. Before retiring, Clark and I had made sure to point out each other's sleeping spots, in case we needed to defend ourselves from any intruders. We had brought firearms with us, acting on the principle of 'better safe than sorry.'

The morning arrived early for me. By 6:15, I was wide awake and decided to start dismantling my hammock and repacking my gear. With my tasks completed and Clark still asleep, I seized the opportunity to try my luck at fishing again. A few casts later, I had caught my first fingerling trout. As I rebaited my hook, I noticed Clark stirring, finally joining the land of the living. We fished for a while longer before returning to camp to break it down completely and begin our descent.

We were meticulous about leaving no trace. We collected all our belongings, packed up any trash, and doused the fire pit's ashes with water to ensure it was fully extinguished. Even though our boots were still slightly damp, we put them back on, knowing they'd soon be wet again from the creek crossings.

Making our way down the canyon was an adventure in itself. We had spotted several promising fishing spots on our way up, and now, we planned to hit each one. Our intuition paid off—we caught two more fingerlings at the first spot. By the end of our journey, we had caught about eight fish in total. Clark, the undisputed champion, had caught the first, the biggest, and the most fish, which cost me three dollars in our friendly wager.

We reached the parking lot around 11:30 am. Our timing was impeccable, as Candy arrived just 30
minutes later, right on schedule. We loaded up our gear and set off on the drive home. Our first stop was a coffee shop in Penrose, where we refueled with coffee and sandwiches. Sitting on the patio, we regaled Candy with tales of our 24-hour wilderness escapade, sharing pictures and recounting our adventures.

By 3:00 pm, we were home, and I headed straight for the shower. The hot water washing away the grime and fatigue felt like a luxury after our adventure. Despite the challenges and the occasional fright, it was an experience I wouldn't trade for anything.

Off We Go!

In just a few days, my son Clark and I are set to cast aside our usual home comforts and dive headfirst into an exhilarating expedition to the Beaver Creek State Wildlife area. The adventure springs into action when Candy, my dear wife and Clark's doting mom, drops us at the trailhead. We're crossing our fingers that she can manage this without shedding too many tears or issuing her "be safe and have fun" reminder on repeat. Don't fret, Mama, we're up for the challenge!

Our route is no walk in the park - it involves navigating a canyon, which is about as simple as trying to solve a Rubik's cube with oven mitts on. The weather here has more mood swings than a toddler who skipped their nap. One moment, it's all sunshine and rainbows, and the next, you're caught in a downpour that would give Noah's Ark a run for its money. And let's not even broach the subject of the terrain - it's a wild mix of steep inclines and slippery rocks that would make even a mountain goat think twice.

To meet these challenges head-on, we're armed with our trusty hiking boots and a pair of old tennis shoes for creek crossings. Why tennis shoes, you ask? Well, there's nothing that kills the joy of a hike faster than the squish-squash sound of waterlogged boots.

Our gear list includes hammocks (because who wouldn't want to sleep swaying gently under the stars?) and a lightweight tarp, the MacGyver of camping equipment, ready to provide shade or morph into an emergency rain shelter.

The crown jewel of our trip is undoubtedly the fishing. Beaver Creek is a paradise for brown and rainbow trout. We're equipped with the top baits for the season - live worms, salmon eggs, plastic worms, and flies. Neither Clark nor I are seasoned trout fishermen, so this part will be as much of an adventure as the hike itself. I've prepped a couple of telescopic rods and strung them with new line today - here's hoping the fish are feeling cooperative!

But, the real treasure isn't in the potential catch of the day. No, the true reward lies in the shared experience of casting lines with Clark, trading stories, and probably laughing loud enough to send every fish in the creek darting for cover. As I survey our gear, trying to lighten our load while realizing we'll likely only use half of it, I can't help but chuckle. Each piece of equipment is a tangible symbol of the adventure that awaits. Every item adds to the anticipation, the thrill, and the memories we're about to forge in the Beaver Creek State Wildlife Area. Here's to hoping we remember everything...and if we don't? Well, that's what makes it a true adventure!

Let's Go

Hey there, fellow thrill-seekers! I've recently discovered this fantastic little gadget called the myColorado app and, let me tell you, it's like having a genie in your pocket that grants all your state service wishes. A round of applause for the State of Colorado for developing such a digital superstar!

Imagine this: I'm all geared up for an unforgettable hiking adventure to the Beaver Creek Wilderness area (which, by the way, is a mesmerizing mosaic of verdant forests, shimmering streams, and craggy peaks in Colorado - an absolute haven for us nature enthusiasts!). And what did I need? A fishing license. But thanks to myColorado, snagging one was as simple as ABC! A few online clicks and voila, my license was linked to the app. No more hair-pulling over misplaced papers!

And here's the cherry on top - the app lets you create a digital ID. Yes indeed, my driver's license has now found a cozy home on my phone. How cool is that? Of course, I'll still keep my physical one handy because, well, some habits are hard to kick.

But hold onto your hats, folks! This app's like a digital locker for your vehicle documents. Titles, insurance, registrations - they're all snugly tucked away in the app. Talk about a worry-free slumber!

And if you thought that was all, brace yourself for a surprise. The myColorado app even links to the Colorado PEAK website, allowing me to manage medical, food, and cash assistance benefits without ever setting foot in a county office. Convenience level: stratospheric!

Shifting gears to the User Interface (UI), it's as smooth as silk. Clean, contemporary design, clearly marked sections - navigating through it is a cinch. As a rookie, I'd award the UI a sparkling gold medal with an 8.5/10.

In short, the myColorado app is your faithful digital companion for accessing state services. Even though I'm still a newbie, I can already vouch for its convenience, security, and efficiency. If you're a Colorado resident who loves the great outdoors (and really, who doesn't?), this app should be your new BFF. Happy adventuring!

Now, let's shift gears and venture into the Beaver Creek State Wildlife Area in Southern Colorado. This place is an unspoiled jewel that's absolutely brimming with Mother Nature's finest masterpieces.

Visualize this: a vast landscape stretching along Beaver Creek, originating at the Skaguay Reservoir and meandering its way through rugged canyons and lush forests. The area is a sanctuary for wildlife, so keep those peepers open for deer, elk, and maybe even a bobcat if you're fortunate!

But it's not just about sightseeing. Heck no! This place is a playground for outdoor junkies. With ample fishing spots in the creek and the reservoir, anglers can have a whale of a time here. And let's not forget about the hunting opportunities - this area is renowned for its game.

For the hiking aficionados among us, the Beaver Creek SWA Loop is a must-see.

It's a trek through a 40,000-acre roadless chunk of land on the rugged south-slope of Pikes Peak. And believe me when I say, the vistas are jaw-dropping.

Nestled between Penrose and Colorado Springs, the Beaver Creek State Wildlife Area is a picturesque destination that offers a slice of wilderness in the midst of the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a peace-seeker, this place has got you sorted.

Rad Power Bikes - An In-depth Overview

Revving up the electric bike industry since 2007, Rad Power Bikes has made a name for itself with its innovative designs, top-notch quality, and unbeatable affordability. These bikes are not just about getting from point A to B; they're about enjoying the journey, making every ride an adventure!

Now, I know I might sound like a broken record, always raving about Rad Power Bikes. But let me tell you, some of the best moments of my

day are spent on my Rad Power Bike. It's a sweet, smooth 30-minute ride to work and another 30 minutes back home. That's one whole hour of pure, unadulterated joy, covering six miles round trip.

My daily route takes me through the serene trails of Bear Creek Park, where every day brings a new discovery. There's a short stretch on a major street that requires a bit of extra vigilance. With distracted drivers around, it's crucial to stay alert and safe. After all, as we riders know, safety first!

If Rad Power Bikes ever needs a volunteer to test their e-bikes, I'm their man! Especially with this fantastic weather, there's nothing I'd rather do than spend more time outdoors on these beauties. Plus, with my JBL 5 speaker mounted upfront, my rides are always accompanied by my rockabilly playlist.

Believe it or not, my music choice seems to be a hit among passersby too! People often start dancing or shout out, "Hey, I love that song!" as I zoom past. Talk about spreading the joy of music!

But what makes Rad Power Bikes stand out in the crowd? It's their commitment to delivering a superior biking experience. Each bike boasts a sturdy aluminum frame for durability, a powerful 750W motor for a smooth, effortless ride, and a long-lasting battery that offers a range of 25-45 miles on a single charge. Perfect for long commutes or leisurely rides!

Rad Power Bikes aren't just about transportation; they're about transforming everyday commutes into exciting adventures. They make every ride an opportunity to explore, enjoy, and embrace life. So if you're looking for a fun, efficient, and environmentally friendly way to travel, Rad Power Bikes is the way to go!

Staycation

Golly gee, time sure does fly! Last week, I treated myself to a staycation and boy, did I get stuff done! On Monday, I was at my workshop all day, getting heating installed so I can stay toasty while working on projects during the winter months. I am putting in a 20ft radiant heating solution.  This will hang from the ceiling.  A crew was there running the gas line and prepping the heater installation. But, wouldn't you know it, they discovered a missing part on Wednesday! So, they had to order it, which slowed things down a bit.  Guess they will be back on July 5th to hopefully wrap this up. Had a full house with

the workers.  I took a picture of all the vehicles that were parked in the drive.  It was three individuals but they each had there own transportation.

On Tuesday, a friendly electrician came by to work on the wiring for the shop heating. They got their part done, but will have to come back once the heater is up. I spent most of Monday sprucing up the shop - mowing, weeding, and trimming those pesky little starter trees. The place is looking spiffy now! I met with some furnace repair folks on Tuesday and Thursday to get estimates for replacing our old house furnace and adding some much-needed A/C.

I did manage to get one item off my list that has been pestering me.  In the front of the Shop there is a power pole and there has been a line down for at least six months.  I called the city and they checked it and said it wasn't there's and that it was not a live wire.  They suggested I call the cable company.  Well after many a calls and not luck, I finally took matters into my own hands.  So instead this wire laying all over the ground it is now wrapped around the stop sign and out of my way.  Maybe this will get some ones attention and they will fix it correctly.

Since I had time at the shop waiting on the work to be done and finished up with the yard work, I cleaned up and painted our Frisbee Disc Golf Basket.  It was gray and showing it's age.  I think it looks better in red.

In the evenings, I've been diving into my Batman Lego Shadowbox project. It's got almost 4,000 pieces, and I'm still not done! Fingers crossed I'll finish it this week because it's shaping up to be super cool!  Pictures will follow once I get it completed.

I also ordered a couple of rad Rad E-bikes (see what I did there?). They're
different from our other E-bikes - lighter and foldable for easy transportation. We're planning some exciting day trips to the mountains to discover new trails to ride.  They had arrived so I spent one afternoon putting them together.  Did a couple of test runs and I think we are good to go.  So we will look for you on the trails.  My other E-bike is becoming my daily driver when the Colorado weather permits, which is most of the time.  I ride back and forth to work, use them to go to the grocery store.  Candy even used hers and took one of the dogs to the vet for shots. 

Been doing some research on E-bike rentals in the area.  Seeing pricing from $69 to $99 for two hours and $130 to $150 for four hours.  With the location of my shop, a block from Red Rock Canyon, 3 blocks from Old Colorado City, one block from the road for Gold Camp Road and Cheyanne Canyon and a direct bike path to Garden of the Gods I think it would be the ideal place to setup a E-bike rental, service and sales business.  In addition I have the parking needed as well.  Who knows, maybe that's what I can do when I retire someday, if the someday ever comes.

On Wednesday morning we got out for a nice little hike.  It was early and there was no one else out yet or at least we didn't see anyone else out.  We stopped by the Beaver pond to see what new progress he/she has made.  Our little dog Lilly went with us and she had a great time jumping in the water. 

One day, we pedaled our way to the zoo, which I just adore! We go early in the morning, around 8 AM, when they start feeding the animals. This way, we get a great view of them before the heat sends them off to hide from the sun.  Maybe someday I will be able to take the grandkids back to the zoo with me. 

The zoo was followed up by a couples massage (Candy got it for me as a Fathers Day present.)  I haven't had a massage in over a year or more.  The masseuse had to wake me up when she was done.  Then we headed out for dinner.  It was actually like being on vacation, it was a great day.

All in all, it was a swell week! Sure, I took a break from work, but I still kept an eye on my emails and handled a few things. After all, you can never truly escape work, can you?

Rainy Days

What an eventful afternoon! The rain in Colorado Springs has been pouring for the past two weeks, which is a relief from the usual hot and dry weather. Because of the abundance of rain, I haven't had to use my sprinkler system, which saves me money on water bills and mowing expenses. Honestly, I'm at an age where I care less about lawn maintenance, and it's no longer a priority. Besides, my sprinkler system needs repair, so I might put it off until this summer.

But let's get back to my exciting afternoon. I rode my bike to work, and at noon, it started raining heavily. Fortunately, at 3 PM, there was a break, and I decided to seize the opportunity and ride home before the next downpour. However, five minutes later, thunder boomed, and the rain came pouring down again. Despite the lightning that scares me, riding in the rain was actually fun, and I enjoyed the ride home, making record time.

Speaking of my bike rides, yesterday on my way home, I stumbled across a huge bull snake, the second

one I've seen this year. It was quite an experience, and I'm always excited to see wildlife during my rides.

Love My RadRunner +

I recently got my hands on a Radrunner Plus electric bike, and after about 9 months of using it regularly, I had clocked more than 965 miles. With all the wear and tear, it was high time for a much-needed tune-up. The brakes were nearly gone, and with the steep hills here in Colorado, they had definitely taken a beating.

After two days at the bike shop, my Radrunner Plus was ready to hit the road once again! The brake pads were replaced, shifting cable was sorted out, and the entire bike was cleaned and oiled up. Now, all I needed was for the rain to stop for a few days - although I can't really complain as we need all the rain we can get.

The Radrunner Plus has been an absolute delight to ride. My family and I use them almost every day, and I even use it to commute to work when the weather is good. It's also equipped for grocery runs, making it convenient to bring home our shopping hauls. Plus, we love going on weekend rides and ending up downtown for a nice lunch.

Overall, I would give the Radrunner Plus a high rating and a positive review. It's versatile, practical, and efficient, especially with its electric assist feature. Plus, it's sturdy and durable enough to handle different terrains and weather conditions. If you're looking for a reliable and enjoyable electric bike, the Radrunner Plus is definitely worth considering.

Israel 2023 Photo Dump