Last March on my 35th birthday I took the afternoon off work and took my really old mongoose mountain bike to corner canyon (one of the most commonly made bikes under multiple brands and it also happens to be the worst bike ever). I’d been interested in mountain biking for a while and wanted to give it a try.

Before investing in a new bike I wanted to take that old bike around the block a few times to prove to myself that I’d stick with it in the long term. After that fateful first ride I enjoyed myself immensely and also learned that a pair of good gloves is a necessity. Here is a photo of that old bike. Does it look familiar to anyone? I think almost everyone had one. Problem is that I rode one when I was 35…..

That day kicked off a great new hobby. I was very interested in pursuing this new hobby but stuck with that bike for about until December of 2015 when I upgraded to a Kona Hardtail Mountain Bike and started using Strava to keep track of my rides. See photo below.

Since that time I’ve been out to ride 67 times and logged 406 miles. Also during this time Nate got a mountain bike and joins me frequently on Saturday morning rides. He is actually quite good! He had a knack for choosing good lines and can really ride that trail. Sometimes we bring along one of his good friends to join the fun. It also helps keep them motivated.

I can’t complain about a hobby that has become excellent father son bonding time, is a blast, is great exercise, makes me feel alive, and I can do with many friends living nearby. Nate and I frequently grab a doughnut on the way home! Here are a few photos from our numerous rides together.

Those who know me understand that I love the outdoors. I feel the call of nature and want to protect it. I’m not a fan of motorized vehicles and the resulting noise. Hiking and biking are my methods of choice to enjoy the great outdoors.

There is something invigorating about climbing a hill or a mountain. Rising above the noise and commotion of the valley. I love it and look forward to many more years of riding with Nate and hopefully one or both of my girls when they are ready. Now I need to figure out how to stay fit in the winter.