The Adventure's of Farmer Bob

2012 Pumpkinman Sprint Triathlon

2011-09-14T15:53:00.000-07:00

Friday 9/9.

To rest up for the Pumpknman Sprint Triathlon, I took Thursday and Friday off from work. I did get some rest of Thursday.

Friday morning I met Dave, John, and Dan at Knights Pond for a 6:45 swim. As we headed down, we noticed fog on the pond. Down on the shore, we could not see the buoys.

When we started to swim, we headed towards where we thought the 1st buoy would be.

We found it, but we couldn't see the 2nd buoy.

We tried to follow the shore but we could barely see any trees or the shore. About 2/3rds of the way there, we saw the buoy.

The fog started to lift and we had no problem heading back to shore. It felt good to get a last swim in before the tri.

After the swim, John and myself went up to Spring Hill and saw Kat. We grabbed some no parking signs and we went out to sweep the Sprint and 1/2 Iron bike and run courses.

There was a lot to clean up on the Sprint bike course. The 1/2 Iron course wasn't bad.

We finished up around 12:30pm.

My parents visited for the Pumpkinman Traithlon Festival. Around 4pm I went with my Mom to Spring Hill for early packet pickup.

When I got home, I took down my bike and put my race number on it. Then I leaned it on the compressor so I could put it in my truck in the morning.

Saturday 9/10.

When I woke up at 4am, I was surprised. I slept through the whole night.

After breakfast, I went out to put my bike in my truck. When I went into the barn, my bike was on the floor. It fell during the night. I picked it up and didn't see anything wrong so I put it in my truck. I gradded the rest of my gear and headed to Spring Hill.

I pulled in at 5:45am and headed down to the volunteers parking.

After parking , I did my triahtlon warmup drill sets. Then I did a 16 minute warm-up run.

After stretching, I set up my bike on the trainer.

Once on the bike, I started my warm-up. I tried to shift to the front large chanring and I couldn't. I tried to adjust the cable but it didn't work.

"Bob, the race is up there" I heard. John Sutherland was there. I said that I was giving everyone a head start. I told John my problem and he suggested to bring my bike up to Papa Wheelies tent. "Great idea John, thanks." I wasn't sure if I should bring it up now or after I do my warm-up. I figured that I could do a warm-up on the middle chainring, then get the bike checked out after body marking. So that 's what I did.

When I brought my bike to Papa's, there was a mechanic there and I told him the problem. When he was checking out the bike, he asked if I took off the back wheel. I said no but it did fall down overnight. He said that was enough to move the back wheel so it wouldn't shift. He fixed it! "Thanks Papa Wheelies."

I headed over to tranisition.

I started to set up transition when I heard "5 minutes before the prerace meeting". "Great". I came here earlier so I would have more time in transition.

I rushed to get everything set up and wetsuit on. Then I headed down.

The nerves started.

When I got near the shore, I saw Dave. We chatted a bit, then I headed closer to the water.

After the meeting, "I got a feeling" was playing on the speakers. The Elite were going to start soon.

My wave started a minute after theirs.

"GO!". The Elites were gone.

So my age group headed into the water. I was in the middle of the back.

"GO!". I started to freestyle.

I got bumped many times. Once the chaos was over, I was 1/2 way to the 1st buoy. When I went up for air, (the water was so choppy from all the swimmers) I got a mouth full of water. I had a hard time after that.

My plan was to swim freestyle and when I needed to, I would side stroke to get my breath back. Then freestyle again. But now I was in survival mode. I couldn't clear the water out of my throat.

I got to the 1st buoy and headed to the 2nd. About a 1/3rd of the way there, I saw all these green swim caps racing to the first buoy. "Great"

I continued to side stroke towards the second buoy. It felt like my legs were sinking. I didn't think I was gonna make it. "I'll never do this again".

If the green swim caps passed me, I never saw them.

Once I got (luckily) to the second buoy, I felt a little better. I did some freestyle but I still couldn't catch my breath. I heard "Looking good Bob" and I had no idea who said that. Then I seen Jason in a canoe on the course. I freestyeled a few more times but near the finish, I side stroked.

Once I felt the shore, I had a hard time walking. It may have taken me a minute to finally get out of the water. I started to run up the hill but I couldn't find the zipper cord in back of the wetsuit so I started to walk. I had to walk up Powderhouse. When I got to the top, I ran to my bike.

It took me a little while to get my focus back.

Once on the bike, I started to get better.

The bike race went good. No problems on the course and I went up Great Hill faster than ever before.

After a 48 second T2, I was on the run.

The run started off tough. Once I turned onto Junction Road I was feeling good.

After passing Spring Hill and heading towards the hill down to the finish, I had two 40's in front of me and I wanted to pass them. I attempted a pass in front of the garage but I didn't have it in me.

"Finished!"

I grabbed a water and seen Jenifer, Ryan and my parents.

After I cooled down, I went to check the results.
I came in 123/401 overall and 16/29 in my age group.

My swim was almost 2 minutes faster than last year. How?

I also moved up 49 spots from last years finish.

It was an excellent triathlon but it was also my hardest yet.

I learned a lot and I have a lot to work on for 2012.

7/10/11 Breadloaf, Wilson, Camels Hump Backpack attempt

2011-07-11T06:52:00.000-07:00

I got up at 2:45am and took a shower. I loaded up the truck and was on the road by 4am.

On Rt. 4 heading to Concord, I stopped at the Hess gas station in Chichester. When I tried to use my Visa Card, it said "See Cashier". So I went in.

I told her that the pump didn't accept my Visa. She told me to go out and press pay inside, then come back in to pay. So I did. When she tried to use the Visa to pay for it, it didn't work. She kept trying, and it didn't work. She called her manager and nothing.

I called Jenifer (which was camping with our kids) to tell her what was going on. She called Northeast Credit Union. First they said that we didn't have any debit cards. Later they said we had cards and that they should work. When Jenifer called again after failed attempts with my card, NCU said that there was a glitch with their systems and noone could use their cards and they didn't know how long it would take to fix it.

Jenifer was able to give them a credit card number over the phone. PAID!

Now I was on my way to Vermont.

I geared up and was on the Long Trail by 10:10am (3 hours late).

After the 1st mile, I started to look for a campsite. After 2.5 miles, nothing. GREAT!

So my planned backpacking trip became a peak bagging hike.

I took my tent, sleeping pad, pans and stove out of my pack and stashed them behind a tree a little ways down the Burnt Hill Tr.

My original plan was to find a campsite close to the road so I wouldn't have to carry the heavy pack. So after I bagged Breadloaf and Wilson, I would hike back to the camp, spend the night, and leave early the next morning to drive to Came's Hump for another hike. If I carried the heavy pack 5 miles to a campsite, I definitely wouldn't have enough energy for the next days hike.

With the lighter load, I was able to move fast.

The Long Trail was narrow and very rough. Mud, rocks, moss, roots and water. My feet started th hurt.

I saw fresh Moose tracks on the trail. Soon I had to avoid stepping in Moose poop.

Soon I was on the wooded summit of Breadloaf. There was a spur trail from the summit that lead to a view west.

The trail from Breadloaf to Wilson wasn't too bad. When I got to the top, I almost walked by the summit. There were a few logs in front of the summit. Another spur path lead to a lookout east.

After taking a break, I headed back.

My feet, back, and shoulders were hurting. Down, up, down, up.

Heading towards the Boyce Shelter, I got the idea that if noone was at the shelter, I could put my sleeping bag in the shelter to hold a spot. Then head over to the Burnt Hill Tr. to pick up my gear, set the tent up in the shelter and spend the night.

When I got to the Boyce Shelter, 2 people and a Saint Bernard were there. Plus I couldn't find water nearby so staying at the shelter was not an option.

So when I got to the Brunt Hill Tr., I went down and picked up my gear.

My shoulders were hurting for the rest of the descent.

When I got to the truck, I dropped the pack in the bed. I set up my stove on the tailgate and cooked Chicken Ramen noodles with Pepperoni for dinner.

I called Jenifer while the Ramen was cooling. I told her about my day and that I was heading home after I ate.

This was my second attempt for Camel's Hump. Denied.

It still was a great hike. I bagged 2 more peaks for the New England 100 Highest list. 65/100.

Hiking 15.8 miles, there was no way that I could of hiked 25 miles the next day. This morning I had a hard time walking.

http://community.webshots.com/album/580518288xdNpah

7/2/11 Parker Mountain Backpack

2011-07-03T12:24:00.000-07:00

7/2/11

I got to the trailhead for the Carter Smith Tr. around 2pm. I put on my heavy backpack and started to head up Parker Mountain.

The trail starts off easy, then becomes steep and eroded. It took a little while to get use to carrying a heavy pack again.

Heading up the trail, I saw the downed tree that points to a lookout. From the lookout I could see Blue Job Mountain. At the lookout there was a cross with plastic ivy on it. I wondered if someone got hurt.

After leaving the lookout, I started to climb again. Soon I saw the faded path on the left that leads to my campsite from last year.

I set up my tent and checked out the views. I could see Blue Job again.

I grabbed my pack and continued towards the summit.

After some more climbing, it levelled off. Then I was at a clearing with great views. I could see the smoke stacks in Newington but it wasn't clear enough to see the Atlantic Ocean.

I found a few wild blueberries, Yum!

There were a few more ups and downs before I reached the summit cairn on Parker Mountain.

I took my pack off and took a break. After some GORP, I headed back down.

When I got back to the tent, I filled my Therm a rest and organinzed inside the tent.

I found a flat rock a little ways from my tent. This will be my kitchen for this evening

I started to boil water for 4 cheese lasagna from Hamburger Helper, minus the hamburger. I added the powdered milk to the boiling water. Soon it overflowed and spilled all over the place. I put in the pasta and sauce mix and mixed it. I had to add more water so it would cook. 10 minutes later, it was done. It wasn't bad but it burned to the bottom of the pan.

After dinner, I cleaned up the kitchen. Since I couldn't find water and I didn't have enough water to clean the pan, I brought it down to my truck, since I didn't want to store it and have a bear for an after dinner guest. The truck was only a 1/2 mile away.

After I came back to the tent, I changed my clothes and hung out in the tent.

6:11pm. Hopefully it will not be a long night.

7/3/11

I had a rough night trying to sleep. I left the sleeping bag at home and I wanted to try sleeping on the Therm a rest with a pillow and blanket. I read "The Appalachian Trail Backpacker" and went out a few times to roam the area.

I read until 9pm and blew out the candle lattern.

Fireworks, motorcycles, and dogs kept me up for quite a while. I was able to sleep on and off until around 3am. Then I set my alarm for 4 to get up.

At 4am, I was up and wide awake.

I organized inside the tent, then went out and started up the stove. As the water started to boil for my oatmeal and java, my headlamp died. I went into the tent and got my candle lattern.

From the ridge where I camped, the views were to the east. The sun was rising as I put my tent into its stuff sack.

I loaded up my backpack and headed down.

5:30am. Cool! I can go home and make pancakes!

This was an excellent warm-up backpacking trip. I learned a few things to do and not to do for next time, Vermont!

http://community.webshots.com/album/580454488wzuGcM

6/25/11 Aggieman Triathlon

2011-06-25T16:12:00.000-07:00

I woke up @ 4am to finish getting ready for Aggieman. Jenifer got up a little later and we left and got to the Eliot Boat Basin before 6am.

We dropped the kayak off near the boat dock, then I parked the truck. We were the 1st ones there.

While I was doing my Drill Sets, I heard thunder off in the distance. Soon it was over us thundering and raining.

I went and did my 16" warm-up run, then headed over to registration to get my timing chip and body marked.

Then while I was setting up my bike trainer, a person from Aggieman annouced that the kayak was going to be cancelled due to the weather. "Great" If that was the case, we would do a duathlon or the race would be cancelled.

While I was warming up on the bike trainer, Ed Harvey (Race Director) announced that the weather is going to clear up but he wanted to wait a while before he decided if we were going to kayak.

My support, Jenifer, had to go to the 7:30am support crew meeting.

Just as she started heading over, Ed said that we were going to kayak but was going to start the race a little later.

At 7:50, Ed had a pre-race meeting on the beach. He said that the kayak was a go and the men were going to start at 8:11 and the women at 8:14. After the meeting, all the men got in their kayaks and headed out to the start line.

I've only kayaked a few times before the race and I was nervous.

Ed stood on the beach and he was the start line.

"1 minute to go. 30 seconds. 15 seconds. GO!

I started to paddle and shortly after I watched everyone pull ahead of me.

The kayak course was to go around an island, then head back to the finish. There were 3 of us bringing up the rear.

Halfway to the finish line, a few women passed me.

When I got out of the kayak, I had to run up the stairs to T1.

I had to take off my life vest and Teva's when I got to my bike. I forgot to wipe my feet off and when I did a flying mount, I had grass and small pebbles in my bike shoes.

Due to the rain, the bike course was slippery.

Halfway through the 25 mile bike course, it started to rain. Then it started to rain hard.

I stood up on the pedals to stretch my legs. When I raised my heels for a calf stretch, my left calf cramped up and almost knocked me over. I slowed down a little and most of it went away.

I didn't have a problem with the rain but when I was going fast on a curvey section of Josiah Norton Rd., I almost lost it.

Soon I was getting close to T2. It was a bit deceptive because I started passing parked cars on the right, but T2 was way ahead of me.

I didn't see my truck parked on the road and I got a little nervous. "Did Jenifer make it?"

Just before T2, I saw my truck, YES!

When I dismounted, Jenifer was there with my transition towel and Zoot visor and Kapilani's. It was a good thing she was there. My feet were numb and she had to hold me up while I attempted to put my Zoots on.

I finally got them on, then I headed down the dirt road. I started off slow because my left calf was still hurting. Soon I picked up the pace.

Once I got on the Cedar Brook Tr., I got a hamstring cramp on my left leg. I had to walk until the pain subsided.

Before I turned onto the Goosefoot Tr., I saw a man standing there in a red rain coat. When I got closer, he pulled out a camera and took my picture. He was from Capstone.

It was still raining hard. I had to duck under many branches that were weighed down by the rain. I also started to feel lonely since there was noone around and I had no idea what position I was in for the race. I had to walk several sections because they were steep and slippery. Also I ran through some mud but the big puddles washed my sneaks clean.

Only 200 yards to the finish. Once I was out of the woods, I sprinted to the finish. Jenifer was there and Ed asked me if I was alright.

Jenifer got me a water and I grabbed a sandwich. We didn't stay long since we were both drenched and cold.

Even though it wasn't the best conditions for a tri. I had a great, painful time!

Thanks Ed for a great event. Thanks Steve for lending me your kayak and thanks Karen for the helpful kayak tips.

2011-06-06T13:30:00.000-07:00

This morning I planned on doing an Aggieman Triathlon workout on the course. I checked the tides, since it's a kayak start, and low tide was at the time when I wanted to go. So I loaded up my truck with bike and kayak and drove over to Eliot Boat Basin.

Jenifer and myself got to the basin by 10am. I took my bike out of the truck (and I didn't do a warm-up ride or stretch) and got ready to go.

The 25 mile bike course starts off easy but becomes hilly. The roads are pretty messed up from last winter.

During the bike ride, I saw Jenifer a few times. She drove ahead of me and took some pictures.

While I was heading to T2, I saw Jenifer in the distance.

T2 for Aggieman is a person waiting for you to grab your bike and helmet, and they also set up for the 3 mile run up Mt. Agamenticus.

She was taking a picture so I had to set my bike down and put my run shoes on.

The first mile of the run is on a dirt road. I was pretty sore and I was running a recovery run before I hit the trails.

I took a right of the dirt road onto the Cedar Brook tr. It's flat until I got to the Goosefoot tr.

The run started to get steep. Then I had a lot of boulder hoping to do. As I got farther up the Goosefoot, I had to walk a few times.

A left onto the Ring tr. and I was almost there.

Shortly I was on Witchhazel trail for the last .2 miles to the summit (finish).

I planned on running the whole way but my legs had somthing to say about it.

I ran the last section and crossed where the finish line will be in a few weeks.

I did the bike in 1:23.41 and the run in 26.26.

It was a great workout!

2011 Triathlon Season

2010-12-26T13:57:00.000-08:00

Here's my tentative schedule for 2011:

04/03/11 Great Bay 1/2 Marathon
05/22/11 King Pine Triathlon (state championships)
06/25/11 Aggieman Triathlon (Relay)
09/10/11 Pumpkinman Sprint Triathlon
09/11/11 Pumpkinman 1/2 Bike and Run Course Director :)
11/24/11 Portsmouth 5k Turkey Trot

I have started the Prep stage of my 6 month triathlon training. My body is a little sore from lifting weights, since I haven't in a while. Running and biking is feeling good but I definitely need to work on my swimming.

My first tri last September was the Pumpkinman Sprint. It took 2 years of training to do the swim. I did it in 15 minutes. My new goal is to do it in 7 and if I can, I have a shot at the podium.

Let the games begin.

2010 Portsmouth 5k Turkey Trot

2010-11-25T10:09:00.000-08:00

This morning I ran the Seacoast Rotary Clubs 2nd Annual 5k Turkey Trot. We got there at 7am (too early) and got a parking spot on Pierce Island. We were the first ones there.
At 8am, I did my 15 minute warm-up run. My legs didn't feel up to it. I think I need to taper more. 2 days was not enough. When I got back, Barbara and Daisy were at the car with Jenifer, Ryan and Krista. I did my stretches and went to the start line. I was pretty far back.
At 8:30am (start time), the race hasn't started yet. When the race started, it took just under a minute to cross the start line. No PR today :(
Because there were so many people at the race (1500), I mostly walked to Marcy St.
It was crowded on Marcy St.. I ran on the sidewalk to pass people.
Heading up South St., the crowd thinned a bit. I saw Diane Jackson and said hi.
By the time we reached Middle St., there was much more room to run.
I kept looking at my heart rate monitor and stayed in the 180-185 bpm range. I picked up the pace a bit when I passed the church. When I turned right for the finish, I picked it up some more and made sure that my feet stayed under me, instead of in front of me.
It felt great crossing the finish line but I was pretty winded.
After catching my breath, we went to get some water and treats.
Overall I was 241 out of 1243. 35/129 in my age group. My pace was 7:49 (I have to check to see if that's a PR) and my total time was 24:17. Guntime was 25:11. If I started closer to the start line, my overall would have been better.
This was an excellent race to end 2010. I learned so much this year and starting in December, I will start training for the 2011 Aggieman Triathlon and the 2011 season.

9/11/2010 Pumpkinman Sprint Triathlon

2010-09-19T05:12:00.000-07:00

I slept pretty good the night before. I was all nervous that I wouldn't sleep. My alarm was set for 5am and I woke up 15 minutes early.

I ate breakfast, got all my gear in the truck, and my parents showed up. They came from Pompey, NY to watch the triathlon.

As planned, I got to the tri at 6am. I did my warm-up drill sets, stretches,warm-up run and bike ride. I grabbed my tri bag, got body marked, and went into transition. I was on schedule.

I was surprised how small my transition area was. When I set up my bike , half my transition towel was under my front tire.

Once I set up transition, I put my wetsuit on. 7:45am, not on schedule. I was planning on getting in the water for a 15 minute warm-up swim but I was rushing to get to the pre-race meeting. I also didn't have time to study the transition area.

Walking down the hill to the swim start, the nerves started again. I saw Russ Lord down by the start and we chatted. My goggles kept fogging up.

My swim wave was 3rd. "30 seconds before the start". Deep breaths. "Go!"

I let the crowd go in first. I took my time getting in. Once I was near the first buoy, I was surprised that there were still people swimming behind me.

Between the 1st and 2nd buoys, I kept getting water in my mouth. Rounding the 2nd buoy, it seemed it took forever to reach the shore.

I made it. Now I have to run up the hill.

As I was stripping the top off my wetsuit off, I put my swim cap and goggles in my right sleeve. As I was running up the hill, they fell out. I saw the green swim cap but not the goggles. I'm not going back to find them.

Towards the top of the Hill Challenge, I started to walk.

T1 went well. Half way through the bike ride, my left calf cramped up. It was very painful and almost knocked me off my bike. I slowed down a bit and it got better.

The bike ride went well. It was my fastest time riding the Sprint course. 47 seconds and I was out of T2.

Shortly after starting the run, my calf cramped up again. Turning onto Junction Rd., the cramp was gone.

I picked it up for the last mile to the finish. Once back at Spring Hill, the adreneline kicked in. I pushed it down the hill to the finish. "Yes? I did it". Thanks to everyone that has helped me learn how to swim and train for traithlons.

1:27.10

172 out of 471

22 out of 38 age group.

142 out of 474 for the Hill Challenge.

It was a great 1st tri. I'm psyched! I'm looking forward to the 2011 season.

8/1-2/2010 Ellen, Abraham, and Mansfield Backpack/Hike

2010-08-03T12:02:00.000-07:00

8/1/2010

I left my house at 3:45am and arrived at the Appalachia Gap in Vermont by 8am. The Long Trail (LT) crosses the road here. I geared up, put on my 48 lb pack, crossed the road and was hiking by 8:15.

The LT starts off steep. Pretty soon I had to climb up metal pipe steps and a ladder to get up the trail. Once I was a mile into the woods, I started looking for a campsite.

I couldn't find one. The woods were so dense. I thought I saw a few sites but I didn't want to tred on the fragile vegetation. Soon I was at the Spur path to Theron Dean Shelter. This is were one of my water supplies was so I checked it out. It was dry. I knew of another water site farther up the trail. I headed back to the trail and started ascending.

I climbed up a boulder and slipped. My left shin smashed on the boulder. A small flesh wound.

I was still looking for a campsite, and water. Nothing.

While I was heading up towards Stark's Nest, I saw two hikers heading towards me. I found out that one of them was thru hiking the LT and was heading north.

Soon I was at Stark's Nest ski area with a single chair lift. I can camp here. From the warming hut, I followed a road and camped on the side. I pitched my tent and I headed towards Mt. Ellen.

The trail was up and down and long. It was muddy in spots and some parts were eroded. I kept my eye out to find Holt Hollow. This is where I needed to get water. Thinking I missed it, I continued down the trail. "What does that sign say, Holt Hollow, Yes! I followed the spur trail and found a small puddle of water. I knew it was ok since I heard water trickling into it. I filled two water bottles (should of filled more) and headed back to the trail.

Once I climbed up to another ski area, I thought I went right by the summit. I ate lunch here and treated my flesh wound. Then I headed south on the LT towards Mt. Abraham.

1 minute back on the trail, Mt. Ellen. There's a small cairne on the summit in the middle of the trail.

Again, many ups and down. I met a hiker that was heading to Canada, Cool!

Now the trail got steep. Once I was at the top, I was on Mt. Lincoln. There was an observation deck on the summit and I could see Abe off in the distance.

I hiked over Baby Abe and headed down for the last climb up Mt. Abraham.

The views were great. I could see Lake Champlain and the Adirondaks Mt. Marcy to the west. I could see Mt. Ellen, Camel's Hump, Mansfield and the Jay Peaks off to the north. Looking east I saw Mt. Adams and Mt. Washington in the Whites. Killington was to the south.

Now for the hike back.

It went pretty well. I started to get tired and my left shoulder was hurting.

Once back to camp, I took a break. Then I made dinner. Hamburger Helper Stroganoff. Not good. I need to find something I can eat for dinner cold, no cooking required.

After dinner, I organized all my gear and headed into the tent for the evening.

I hiked 15.5 miles today. My plan was to hike up Camel's Hump on the next day but I don't think I could hike 25 miles round trip tomorrow. Plus in the morning I have to hike 2.5 miles down to Apps Gap. Instead, I'll head over to Mt. Mansfield tomorrow.

8/2/2010

I was surprised. I slept pretty good. I got up at 4am and wrote yesterdays trip report. Around 5am, I got up and made breakfast. After breakfast, I packed up and was on the trail by 6:15am.

My back was sore from yesterdays hike. I was surprised when I put my pack on, that if didn't hurt my back. Also yeserday when I found water, I only filtered 2 liters. I used most of it for dinner and the rest for breakfast. I had not water for the 2.5 mile descent, but I knew there was water in my truck.

I took my time on the descent. The trail was slippery and foggy. When I got to the several boulders with steel steps, I took my time and had no problems.

I saw a couple of hikers heading up to Abe. Then I hiked through a wild bluebery patch. I was able to get a couple, MMM!

Close to the trailhead, my left shoulder started to hurt again and I was feeling dehydrated.

Once back to the truck, I had water, lots of water. I had some GORP, and more water.

I'm going to drive over to Mt. Mansfield now.

On the way over, the sky was blue except over Stowe and Mansfield.

I got to the trailhead and there were many cars and people heading up the mountain. Oh well.

Since I didn't want to carry my heavy pack again, I decided to go alpine style (minimal gear). So I grabbed my fanny pack, put on the water bottle parka with a 1 liter water bottle, camera, GORP, and I put a peanut butter sandwich inside the fanny pack.

I put the fanny pack on, grabbed my LEKI Khumbu's and was on the trail. I decided to have this hike be a triathlon cross training hike, so I hiked fast up to the summit. Mt. Mansfield is 2.3 miles to the summit from Rt. 108 on the LT south.

The beginning of the trail was easy. Then it got a little steep. By the time I got near the summit, it was boulder climbing time. YES!

The scramble up to the summit was very steep in spots. It leveled off towards the summit. I made it to the summit in 1 hour and 30 minutes. There was a panoramic view but clouds covered most of the summits. I could see Jay Peak and Big Jay (on my to do list). After I ate my sandwich, I looked around a bit. I saw an airplane heading towards the summit and it was pulling a glider. Then the plane let go of the glider and I watched him turn and fly away. After that, I headed down. It took me 1 hour and 15 minutes to descend, or what I like to call "controlled falling"

This was an excellent hike. I learned so much and a few what not to do's in the future.

http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/578309430SUIjmi

7/23,24/2010 Parker Mountain backpack

2010-07-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

7/24.
I left my house at 2pm and drove to the trailhead for Parker Mountain in Strafford, NH. I came to Parker for 2 reasons. First, to check on and replace an Ascender stamp for my "If Parker Mountain was Mt. Everest" Letterboxing series. Due to the past ice storm, I had to change a few clues, since some of the Spencer Smith Tr. was damaged. Second, to do a backpacking warmup trip to get ready for bagging 4 peaks in 2 days in Vermont in August.
When I returned to my truck after fixing the Parker Mtn. series, I gave
Jenifer a call. Then I grabbed my 41 lb pack and headed back up Parker Mtn.
It took a little while to get use to the backpack again.
Soon the trail got steep and I took my time heading up. I took a side trail to a lookout. I could see Blue Job mountain off in the distance.
Heading back up the steep, eroded trail, I got use to the weight of the pack. Soon I came to the downed tree that points to my campsite I found last year.
I dropped my pack, then set up my tent. The tent went up easy but I couldn't pound down a few stakes since I was camping on Parker Mountains Ridge.
I unloaded my backpack. Somethings went inside the tent, and the food and stove stayed out. I found a deer run that went through a wild blueberry patch but there were no berries. Soon I found a nice flat rock to set up my stove and cook dinner, Hamburger Helper 4 Cheese Lasagna, minus the hamburger. Believe it or not, it tastes good. The sky became overcast.
After it was done, I sat on a boulder along the ridge and ate. It was very peaceful, but I could hear a dog barking off in the distance. When I finished eating, I cleaned up and threw my food stuff sack over a tall branch to keep the amimals from my food. I also brought an extra piece of rope so I could hang my backpack near my tent so I could have much more room in my small 2 man tent.
I changed into my sleep shorts and headed into the tent. I organized inside and set up my latern. It's almost 9pm and it's dark outside.
I'll work on my LEKI Khumbu Speedlock trekking poles report, read a little Chi Running, then try to sleep.
7/25.
A few times during the night, I heard a few animals. Once I heard one sniff next to the tent fly. It was a little scarry, but neat at the same time.
Around 2am it started to rain. I also had a very hard time sleeping. I may have gotten 2 hours of sleep.
My watched beeped and it was 5am. Time to get up. It was still raining so I put on my rain gear and headed out. I set up my kitchen in the same spot and made oatmeal and coffee. Once I ate, I grabbed my coffee and went back into the tent. I also grabbed my backpack.
I drank my coffee and loaded the backpack. Then I packed up the tent and put it on top of my pack.
The descent was slippery and slow. I took my time and made it down without any problems.
It was an excellent backpack and I learned a few new tricks.
Now it's time to bag some peaks.

Here are some pictures:

http://sports.webshots.com/album/578252860LeFScz

P1 Sprints bike workout

2010-05-05T10:32:00.000-07:00

After my morning nap, I did a P1 Sprints bike workout. Warmed-up, then 6x30 sprints in big gears. I stood for the first 10 seconds while increasing cadence to 90-100, then kept cadence for 20 seconds while seated.
When I was heading back on Blackberry Hill Rd., I saw a mother and a son up the road. I looked behind me to see if a car was coming and there was, but when I started to look ahead, I drove onto the shoulder. I stopped pedaling and held on for the ride. As soon as the car passed, I got back on the road. Phew!
It was a great workout, minus the headwinds.

35'53
11 miles
18.2 average mph
35 max mph

Todays Time Trail

2010-05-03T10:39:00.000-07:00

After my morning nap, I did a T2 bike Time Trail. 15 minute warm-up on trainer and then a 10k TT. Its suppose to be done on a flat course but I enjoy the hills. The 5k out was easier than the 5k back.

When I returned, there was a headwind. After I took a right to go up Berwick Hill, a tractor trailer was following (pushing) behind me, but wouldn't pass. Towards the top of the hill, he passed.

It was an excellent ride and a good workout. This is the last week of my Build 1 traithlon training.

I ended with a strawberry/blueberry smoothie

20'20
6.3 miles
18.5 average mph
37.2 maximum mph

A wet Sunday Brick

2010-04-18T09:03:00.000-07:00

This morning I did an E3 Intensive Endurance Brick on he Hills of the Berwicks. The Brick was a 1 hour bike ride and a 1 hour run.
T1 went well and I was on my way.
Shortly after I started, it began to rain. I rode for a half hour then turned around. I had to stop for a train crossing the road. Once I started up again, I saw a red fox cross the road.
Heading up a hill, I noticed that there were tiny pebbles in my wet shoes.
I made it back home in 59.05, wet. I rode 17.7 miles, 17.9 average mph, and 32.4 maximum mph.
T2 took a few minutes. My feet and fingers were numb and my sneakers were wet.
Once I started the run, it took a few minutes to loosen up my legs. I ran a half hour and turned around.
Coming back, the sun was trying to come out, but it didn't. I picked up my pace and made it back home in 56 minutes.
I ran 6.4 miles and ran an 8.45 minute mile. Total Brick in 1.58
This was an excellent workout. Now it's time to start Build 1 training.

2010 Triathlon Training

2010-02-14T13:36:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture of me working out on my bike trainer during my Preparation period of my triathlon training. I will be starting my Base 1 training this Monday.

I'm still working on my swimming and hopefully I'll be ready for the June King Pine Tri.

2009's Garlic Harvest

2009-08-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

I have been growing garlic for many years.

Last September I planted 90 cloves and I harvest 89 heads this year.

After I planted the cloves last year, I slowly covered the bed with leaves, to insulate them during the winter. After all the leaves are in the bed, I cover the bed with bird netting, so the leaves will not blow away and to keep cats out of it.

In the spring, as it warms up, I slowly take the leaves out of the bed. All the garlic shoots are yellow and quickly turn green.

After all the leave are off, I feed the bed with blood meal, then I put a layer of compost over the whole bed. Then I put shredded leaves in the bed as a mulch.

When there are only 4 green leaves left, I harvest the garlic.

Since we had a wet season, I'm letting the garlic dry for three weeks.

After the garlic is dry, I save 90 cloves for next years crop, which I'll plant the second week of September.

http://community.webshots.com/album/574148042nrwyyz

The York Day 5K

2009-07-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

7/26/09

This morning I did my first race. It was the York Day 5K. We left the house at 6:30am to get to York High School early.

When we got there, we went inside the school to register. My number was 536. I got my number and timing chip.

Around 7:30am I did a 15 minute warm-up run. It felt good.

I saw Jenifer and the kids when I got back. Then I had to rush over to the start line.

There were a lot of people at the start line. It took me a while but I made it to the back.

While I was waiting to start, it started to rain.

Soon the gun went off and we started the race.

I was nervous since it was my first race. I was surprised how easy it was running in a group.

I kept a consistent pace. I tried to drink water at the 1 mile marker but I spilled 1/2 of it and had a sip and some went up my nose.

I picked up some speed at the last right hand turn towards the finish line. 1/2 way to the finish, I sprinted. While sprinting to the line, someone said "Farmer Bob!". I lifted up my arms then crossed the finish line.

After crossing the finish line, the commentator said "Here are the people who finished under 29 minutes.

I grabbed a piece of watermelon and found Jenifer, Ryan and Krista.

They posted the preliminary times and if I read it right, I was 71/97 and ran it at 27:13.

This was an excellent race and I can't wait for the next one.

Time Trial Training

2009-07-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

For the last several months, I've been training for an Individual Time Trial on August 30th in Cumberland Maine.

I start the ride at Spinelli Cinema's parking lot in Barrington, NH. I head south on Rt. 125 to Lee Traffic Circle. I go around the circle then head north back to Spinelli. It's 8.3 miles.

While I was heading south, I heard "on the left" and a bike rider pulled up. He asked me how far I was going and I told him. He said something and took off.

I thought about keeping up with him but I kept to my own pace.

Traffic in the circle was a bit tricky but I made it.

Heading back to Spinelli, I was making good time but my body told me that one run was enough

I've been wanting to do two laps but I will start in August.

It's a good ride and hopefully it will help my chances for the Peak Performance Maine Time Trial Series #12 of 13 in August.

My Tri Training.

2009-07-06T17:45:00.000-07:00

On weekends when I get a chance, I will do My Tri.

My Tri consists of first practicing breathing techniques in our pool for 10 minutes, with wetsuit, cap and goggles on. Then from the pool I go to T1, strip off my wetsuit and do a flying mount onto my bike. Then I ride 16 miles. When I get back to my house, I do a flying dismount to T2. Then I put my shoes on and run 3 miles.

This is a great practice and I can't wait to swim better so I can compete in an actual Triathlon.

2009 Aggieman Triathlon

2009-06-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

This was the second Tri that I volunteered for this year. It was another excellent experience.

I got to the start line at 5am. Soon I joined Jeff and Orville to set up the transition racks in T1. When that was done, I hung out and watched people setting up their transition areas.

After the swim, I helped Jennifer with calling out the athlet's number so she could mark it down plus the time. When the Kayaker's were done, I had to call out the time. That was fun.

I waited for the last bike rider to leave T1, then I had to drive the bike route and tell the Road Marshalls that the race was over and I had to pick up the caution flags and vests.

I didn't pass the last bike riders until I was on Rt.236. When I took a right onto Rt. 9, I pulled over and waited. When the last bike rider passed, I followed her slowly.

When the bike riders were on Mountain Rd., I passed them and stopped at T2.

I saw Tim, Stu and Chris there (fellow Riptide members) and we waited for the last riders to show up.

After they showed up, I head up the mountain.

I got to the top and hung out. I ate some food and listened to the results.

Hopefully I'll be ready next year to do Aggieman.

My Tri

2009-06-13T14:12:00.001-07:00

6/12/09:
This morning I did my own Triathlon.
For the swim, I spent 10 minutes practicing breathing and kicking in my kids 12’x3’ pool, with the help of a kick board. Then I ran from the pool to T1.
Before I put on my wetsuit, I lubed up with sun screen. I wanted to see if that would help me take my wetsuit off faster. When I took the upper half of the wetsuit off, it got stuck on my left wrist. My watch was on the outside of the wetsuit. So I had to pull it back up to take the watch off. When I took off the lower half, it came off easily. Maybe next time I’ll try Pam on my wrists.
Then I put on my Tri top (still scraping cash together for a Riptide top), jersey, sunglasses and helmet. My sunglasses fogged up so I couldn’t use them. Then I did a flying mount onto my bike and I was off.
For the bike ride, I rode 16.4 miles through Berwick and N. Berwick on very hilly terrain. It took a while getting use to riding without sunglasses.
When I got close to T2, I undid my shoes and did a flying dismount. I took off my helmet and jersey, and then put my shoes on. This took a long time, since I haven’t gotten Yankz yet.
My legs were very stiff on the beginning of the 3 mile run. I kept a consistent pace and I sprinted up my driveway to the finish line.
My Tri took me 1.36.
It was an excellent workout and it is now part of my Triathlon Training.

Volunteering at the 2009 King Pine Triathlon

2009-05-31T13:29:00.000-07:00

Today I was able to volunteer for the transition area at the King Pine Triathlon. It was a blast and I learned a lot.

Check out the photo's at:

http://sports.webshots.com/album/572734158VekmCu

5/9/09 Pumpkinman Tri Sprint Course ride.

2009-05-09T06:23:00.002-07:00

This morning I rode my bike to Spring Hill and rode the Sprint course for the Pumpkinman Triathlon. It was the second day getting use to my new Aerobars.

Knights Rd. has a nice shoulder for bikers and runners.

Emery Bridge Rd. was interesting.

There's a lot of road damage and in a few area's the road banks.

I took a left onto Boyds Corner rd. and it was uphill. When I reached the top, it leveled off and I picked up speed. I knew Thurrell Rd. was on the left so I kept an eye out for it. I started to go faster, then there it was. My back tire skidded when I braked to make the turn.

Going up Thurrell, there's a horse farm at the top of the hill. Going down the hill was fast. I hit 32mph.

Feeling pumped, I took a right onto Great Hill Rd. Oh man, what a long ascent.

I made it up the hill then I started to pick up speed. Then I had to brake hard again for the quick turn onto Hopper Sands Rd.

Pretty soon I was back at Spring Hill. I took a short break, then headed home. It took me 53 minutes to ride the Sprint. Pond Rd. reminded me of Paris Roubaix's cobblestones.

The Sprint course is a challenge. There are more uphills then downhills and it was tough.

I can't wait to ride it again.

Oh, my training.

2009-04-05T15:22:00.000-07:00

I thought I mentioned earlier about my training, I didn't.

Last September while coming back from a 33 mile bike ride, I road into the bike ride for the Pumpkinman Triathlon. I road with a couple bike riders and they told me about the event. I got inspired to start Triathlon training.

Now I do 3 days of Strength training, 5 days of Ab/Ham training, and on Saturdays and Sundays I jogged 3 miles, Nordic Walk 1 mile, and when the weather cooperates, I'll work on bike cadence with a 2 or 3 mile bike ride. As I get into better shape, I'll ride longer miles on my bike. I do a 33 mile ride from my house in Berwick to the Kittery Traffic Circle and back. I'm also going to get a pair of Aero bars for my bike.

An addition to my training.

2009-04-05T05:34:00.000-07:00

I added a 8 mile bike cadence ride to my training. When I get home from work on Tuesdays and Thursday, I'll gear up and do an 8 mile cadence ride. The cadence ride is over many long country hills.

The ride is an excellent workout. I started last Tuesday.

I worked Saturday so when I got home , I did a ride. It was tough. When I came back on Blackberry Hill Rd., there was a strong headwind. I kept up my cadence but the wind slowed me down. But the weird thing was that when I started the ride, I went the fastest I've ever gone on a bike, 36.6 mph. I beat my last fast time of 35.9 mph.

Thanks to my Specialized Allez Road Bike.

3/14/09 Monroe/Jefferson hike

2009-03-17T16:17:00.000-07:00

I met BIGEarl, MadRiver, and Trailtrotter at 7:30am at the Marshfield Station parking. The plan was that BIGEarl and Trailtrotter would hike up Monroe then head south to Ike, Pierce, and Jackson. MadRiver and myself were just going to do Monroe but MadRiver wanted to go over to Jefferson after, which I thought was a good idea, since it was sunny, not too cold and not windy.

If you want to read BIGEarls trip report and look at pictures from our hike, go to:

http://www.rocksontop.com/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?t=5604

2/28/09 Cadence bike ride

2009-02-28T10:57:00.000-08:00

This morning it was 30 degrees, perfect jogging weather.

I deciced to do a 3 mile jog.

I was warmed up and on the road by 6am.

Working on cadence for jogging, I got into a good pace and was able to keep it. Heading up the hill towards the turnaround area (pictured) I had a tailwind helping me out. When I turned around at the farmhouse, there was a headwind that slowed me down a bit, and cooled me off.

Towards the end of the jog, I sprinted a bit on the road and up my driveway that's a hill. There's a big crack across the driveway by the house and I use this for a start/finish line.

After lunch, I did a 3 mile cadence bike ride. I rode my Allez to the same farmhouse that is 1.5 miles from my house.

Leaving my driveway, it's downhill. Then when a take a left onto the road, I go up a small hill and then go down a long hill, where I go 34 mph.

When I started to pedal halfway down the hill, gaining speed, a car in front of me slowed down and I had to slow down.

Soon I took a left onto Blackberry Hill Rd. This section to the farmhouse (turnaround) is flat to start, goes downhill, then a long subte hill going up to the farmhouse.

Heading back, there are many holes in the road that makes riding tough.

When I turn back onto Berwick Rd., It's a very long subtle uphill, then the last section before my driveway is uphill, then a downhill to my driveway.

I sprinted up my driveway.

I plan on doing this ride on Saturdays and Sundays to work on my cadence.

As it gets warmer, I will be going on longer bike rides. Also I'll start working on jogging after I ride bike and practicing transitions, getting ready for the 2010 Pumpkinman Triathlon.

2/22/09 Jog, Nordic Walk, & Bike ride.

2009-02-22T07:17:00.000-08:00

After watching the Tour of California all week, I needed to ride my bike.

So after I jogged 2 miles and Nordic Walked 1 mile, I geared up and planned on riding my bike for 3 miles.

I want to work on my bike cadence for training.

After going down the big hill on Berwick Road, I was freezing. It was 27 degrees and I thought I wouldn't have a problem since I jogged the same route earlier.

So the 3 mile planned bike ride turned into a 2 mile ride. My hands were freezing when I got back home.

Working on cadence is hard. Since most my ride is up long hills, it will be quite the workout. I need to try to keep a constant pedaling speed and it's tough.

1/24/09 South Twin hike.

2009-02-02T16:30:00.000-08:00

Name of mountain(s): South Twin Name of trail(s): Beaver Brook to Gale River Loop Road, Gale River, Garfield Ridge & Twinway
Hikers name: Farmer Bob, Rocksnrolls, Glen S., Hiker Bob.
Hike date(s): 1/24/09 Weather and trail conditions: Sunny & cold. Very cold & windy on the summit.
Total miles hiked: 12.8 Trip report:
My original plan was to meet Mike P. at the N. Twin trailhead at the end of Haystack Road. I was suppose to meet mike at 7am at Mountain Bean. I drove by Mountain Bean and I didn’t see his car so I thought I would meet him at the N. Twin trailhead.
When I got to Haystack Road, it wasn’t plowed. I continued driving until I could find a spot to turn around.
I was able to turn around at Beaver Brook and when I did, I saw Rocksnrolls. I stopped and told him what was going on. I said that I’ll check back at Mountain Bean and I may be back if Mike’s not there.
When I went back, he wasn’t there so I drove back to Beaver Brook.
When I got there, Rocksnrolls was joined by Glenn S. and Vegamatic.
I told them that I wanted to join them. They were already geared up so I told them that I would catch up.
Once I was on the road, I was following their snowshoe tracks. It took me an hour and 20 minutes to catch up to them.
Soon the trail got steep and it was getting colder.
I saw Climbing Stallion taking a break. He mentioned that Mike P. went to 7 Drawfs to take the old trail to get to N. Twin Tr.
When we got to Galehead Hut, Hiker Bob was there. It was good seeing him again. We could see Garfield, SW Twin and S. Twin mountains.
We hung out for about 20 minutes and then headed up S. Twin.
Vegamatic headed up Galehead.
The hike up Twinway to S. Twin was tough and steep.
Once we got above treeline, the wind picked up and it got much colder.
Glen S. was ahead of me and I tried to catch up, but it was slow going.
I caught up to Glen at the summit. It was very windy and cold. My thermometer didn’t work. All the red was at the very bottom.
We hung out for about 5 minutes and headed down.
Soon we passed Rocksnrolls and Hiker Bob heading up.
On the way down we did a lot of sliding on snowshoes. A few times I was on one snowshoe and my knee was sliding in the snow. I thought that maybe my knee would catch a boulder so I tried not to slide that way.
Soon we were back at the hut. I was considering going over to Galehead but I wanted to save my energy for the return trip.
Not much happened on the descent. It did get colder.
We were back at our cars before the sun set.
This was an excellent hike with excellent company. It was also the longest I hiked with snowshoes on, and my legs felt like jello.

Check out my pictures at:

http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/569784107bLdTvi

Check out Glen S.'s pictures at:

http://picasaweb.google.com/Greatgulf/SouthTwinInWinter2ndTime?authkey=elAISjr8EJc&feat=directlink#

Nordic Walking

2009-01-25T15:14:00.000-08:00

I decided to add Nordic Walking to my Triathlon Training.

My weekly training consist of 3 days of Strength Training, 6 days of Cardio/Hamstring Training, and on Saturday and Sunday morning, I jog two miles (this will increase with time).

I am planning on Nordic Walking 3 miles after I jog 2 miles.

Today I used my new pair of LEKI Instructor Nordic Walking poles and walked 3 miles on country roads. These roads have very long hill that makes for a good workout. These are the same roads I jog, and ride my bike.

I'm hoping to get into good enough shape to enter the 2010 Pumpkinman Triathlon in South Berwick Maine.

To check out more information about Nordic Walking, go to:

http://www.leki.com/nordicwalking/

9/12/08 Isles of Shoals

2008-09-28T06:25:00.000-07:00

Jenifer and I went out to the Isles of Shoals for the day.

We got on the boat at 7am and rode into the sunrise to the Isles.

We went out to letterbox and we got most of them on Star Island.

Then we took a row boat over to Smuttynose and got one more letterboxes.

After returning to Star, we explored the island.

Then we shared our first Lime Rickey and it was great.

We relaxed on the porch of the Oceanic Hotel while waiting for the boat.

From the porch, I could see Mt. Agamenticus and Monadnock.

The boat ride back was fun.

It was an excellent day out at the Isles of Shoals.

http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/567451546ieTqqw

KTC ride 9/5/08

2008-09-28T05:47:00.000-07:00

On Sunday morning, I did my usual ride to Kittery Traffic Circle.

When I went by the Vivian Hussey school, I noticed a bike sign with an arrow pointing in the opposite direction. Also there were many Poland Spring water bottles near the sign. (?)

I had no problems making it to KTC but on the way back, I experienced a head wind.

When I got back onto Rt. 4, I noticed Pumpkinman Triathlon Festival flags on the light poles.

When I got close to the junction with the Agamenicus Rd., I saw a police car with its lights flashing. Then I saw someone with an orange flag directing bike riders.

I stopped and asked the policemen what was going on. They told me it was the Pumpkinman Triathlon. When I left them, I joined a rider.

We chatted a bit and then we turned onto Blackberry Hill Rd.

While riding, I passed him. I looked back before taking a left on B H Rd. and he was way behind me.

I continued awhile and I saw another bike rider and I caught up to him. We talked a bit and then in front of the Hussey school, there were people giving away water, banana's, and sports gel.

I grabbed a sports gel and took a right onto Berwick Rd.

I was still riding with another bike rider but he took a right where I went straight to go home.

At that junction, there was a man flagging traffic. I stopped and asked him if he had any info on the triathlon. He said no.

I tried to clip into my pedal while going uphill and I fell down. On the uphill, I couldn't get started so I had to walk my bike up the hill.

Once at the top, I was able to get back on my bike for the short trip back home.

It was an excellent ride and I got psyched riding with others.

Next year I must compete.

Check out the pictures at:

http://community.webshots.com/album/567463334HEkxcl

Bike Ride to Wells Maine

2008-09-01T07:34:00.000-07:00

Early this morning I took a bike ride to Wells Maine. Several days ago I drove the route to see how far it was. I also checked out the route to see if it was safe to ride.

This ride is a good workout. It has many long inclines and descents.

When I got to the Wells Maine sign, I took a break.

By the sign, there were several wild blueberries, and of course, I ate them.

This was a 20 mile round trip and it was fun.

For the two picture slide show, go to:

http://community.webshots.com/slideshow/566106242wFrcne

8/31/08 Love Creek Mountain Bike Ride

2008-08-31T09:15:00.000-07:00

I started off early this morning and rode to Love Creek Road.

On the way down LC, I saw a trail on the left before the trail I usually take so I tried it. This trail was in bad shape due to ATV's so I turned around.

Once back on Love Creek, I headed down a little ways and took a left onto the Trail.

I still had a problem going over a culvert on the trail. I almost made it but when I got to the other side, I hit a downed log, plus this section of the trail goes uphill.

I took a right when I got to the T Junction.

This section has several downed trees and several huge mud puddles on the trail. The downed trees have trails around them, so do the mud puddles.

Soon I came to another T Junction. The trail in front of me was marked with a "W" and the trail to the right was marked with an orange sign with a black arrow with letters N.E.T.R.A on it.

Following the NETRA trail, I soon came to a field.

I could see a road off in the distance and I thought it was Love Creek.

I rode to the road and found out it was Wentworth Rd.

Wentworth Road goes to Rt. 9 but I didn't want to go that way so I headed back through the field to the NETRA trail.

I stopped at the beginning of the trail and read the sign. It said that there would be a motorcycle race there in a couple of weeks.

I headed back to the T Junction and took a left to head back to Love Creek.

Again I almost made it over the culvert but I was in second gear and that was too low for climbing up the trail.

When I got close to the road, I thought I saw a deer. I found out it was a dog. It looked like a pit bull. I waited a few minutes to see if he would move but it didn't. I tried to back up but then he saw me.

He started to bark. I tried yelling at him but that didn't work.

He kept barking and he started to head towards me.

I turned my bike around and headed back to the field.

I made it back to the field with no problems.

So I had to take Wentworth Road to Rt. 9. If I took Wentworth Rd. the other way, I would be back on Love Creek.

Rt. 9 has a shoulder but it's not the best road to ride on.

I made it back safely home.

I can't wait to go again.

Check out the slide show at:

http://outdoors.webshots.com/slideshow/566062376EPvCJn;jsessionid=abc0HVUjF6IpceJMr6zWr

My Trek is fixed.

2008-08-24T14:15:00.000-07:00

I brought my mountain bike to Tri-City Bikes and Mark told me that the freewheel was broke. He didn't have one in stock but he ordered it. The next day I got a call and the Trek was fixed.

Today, I did my usual mountain bike route (Berwick Rd., Blackberry Hill Rd., to Love Creek Rd.

When I was going down Love Creek Rd., there was a tractor going down, and it took up most of the road. While he was going through a puddle, I went to his left and said "Hello". He was surprised to see me but he did say hi.

I took a left onto a dirt trail. This is the second time I was unable to ride over a culvert that acts like a stream, too rocky.

Once I got past that, I continued a ways to the T intersection.

I took a left and rode a ways until there was a huge mud puddle, with many motorcycle tracks through it. I didn't think I could make it so I turned back.

At the intersection, I continued straight.

There were two trees blocking the trail but there were two side trails around them. After I went past the second one, there was a 100 foot long mud puddle. It looked deep so I turned around. I did see a small trail that may have gone around it but I headed back.

I got back to that culvert and I couldn't ride through it.

Heading back, there are some sections on Love Creek Rd. that has a really soft sand and the front and back wheels slips on it, but they are fun going through.

This years garlic.

2008-08-23T16:07:00.000-07:00

On 8/4/08, I harvested our garlic. I planted 54 cloves and harvested 53 heads. I planted this years garlic on 9/3/07. When it starts to get cold, I put leaves in the garlic bed, that measures 15'x4'. The garlic overwinters in the bed and in the spring, I take off the leaves.

The garlic grew fast. When the tops start to turn brown, it's time to harvest the garlic.

This year I will be planting 90 cloves of garlic.

Maybe it's time to go into business.

My Trek is broken.

2008-08-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

Today I went for a mountain bike ride. I ride a mile on a road, then about a mile on dirt roads.

When I got on Love Creek Rd. (Dirt) I went through some deep puddles, which was fun. Then I took a left onto a trail that I thought I've been on before. It didn't look familiar but I kept going. I was riding between tire tracks which were puddles. I slipped and my left foot went into the mud past my ankle. With a wet foot, I turned around and headed back to Love Creek Rd.

Once back to the road, I took off my left sneaker and got the debri out. I took a left and went to another trail on the left. This is the one that I've been on before.

Soon on the trail there is a small stream crossing. I got close to it but it was too rocky so I stayed on the bike but walked through it.

I continued on the trail further than before. Soon I came to a T in the trail so I thought it would be a good time to turn back. I'll explore it later.

So when I headed back, I went through those big mud puddles again, still fun.

I was about half way down Blackberry Hill Rd. when my chain was making noise while I was coasting. So I kept peddling.

When I started to pick up speed going down a hill, I could not peddle. I looked at it at the bottom of the hill and I couldn't figure out what was wrong with it. I would peddle forward, and it just went around in circles, not catching the gears.

So I had to walk 1/2 mile home, and of course, the last part is a hill.

I looked at my mountain bike and I still couldn't figure out what was wrong.

I'll have to bring it to Tri City Bike's and see what's wrong.

Stark's Nest hike on 8/9/08

2008-08-09T19:16:00.000-07:00

Name of mountain(s): Stark’s Nest, Green Mountains, Vermont Name of trail(s): Long Trail (LT)
Hikers name: Farmer Bob and Gargoyle Girl (Jenifer)
Hike date(s): 8/9/08 Weather and trail conditions: Cloudy and windy to start. It rained when we were half way up. Partly cloudy on summit.
Total miles hiked: 5 Trip report: We left our house around 6 last night and drove to Waitsfield Vermont to the trailhead of the LT on Rt.17.
We got to the trailhead around 10:30pm and set up our sleeping bags in the back of our Vue. This was our camp.
We didn’t sleep to well.
We got up around 6am and ate breakfast. I brought my stove but I forgot the coffee (yes we were roughing it).
We geared up and were on the trail by 7am.
The trail starts out steep. There were many large mud puddles and a lot of running water on the trail.
Soon the trail had Mad River Glen Snowshoe signs next to the blazes.
The boulders on the trail started to get bigger with many tree roots on them, and very slippery. Soon we came to a ladder that made a steep climb much easier.
We came to a clearing and saw a chair lift. We thought this was Stark’s Nest. We checked out the ski map sign and found out this wasn’t Stark’s Nest, so we headed back to the LT.
The trail started to get steep again. There were several long ascents of slippery boulders.
We reached Dean’s Cave Bypass and a toilet for the Theron Dean Shelter. We took a short break and continued up.
There was another ladder to go up and some more huge boulders.
The last section before Stark’s Nest was small ups and downs until we saw part of a roof. We were at Stark’s Nest.
We took out the clue sheet for the Merry Pranksters Mad River Glen-Ski it if you can letterbox.
We followed the clues and found the box. First finders! Thanks for the patch.
After stamping the stamp and log book, we checked out the single chairlift and the views from the deck. Then I re-hide the Pranksters box.
We took a lunch break and hung out for a while.
As we were getting ready to leave, a dark cloud rolled in. We put on our rain jackets and headed down.
The hike back was slippery but we had no problems.
About halfway down we took a break and took off our rain jackets.
We past by many weekend warriors with their children hiking up the LT with little gear.
When we got back to the parking lot, it was full. People with camera’s, people on bikes, people making out on the guardrail, and people getting ready to hike on the LT.
We did plan on going over the Mt. Ellen after Stark’s Nest but we were pretty beat from the lack of sleep the night before.
Stark’s Nest was a pretty tough climb for a 3000’ peak.
I’ll never underestimate a non-4k in Vermont again.

Pictures at:
http://community.webshots.com/album/565292879OyeEBw

Killington Peak on 7/27/08

2008-07-28T15:37:00.000-07:00

Name of mountain(s): Killington Name of trail(s): Bucklin, LT/AT, Killington Spur
Hikers name: Farmer Bob & Jenifer
Hike date(s): 7/27/08 Weather and trail conditions: Partly cloudy, 60’s. Several huge mud puddles on Bucklin Tr.
Total miles hiked: 7 Trip report: Jenifer and myself woke up early for the 3 hour ride to Killington Vermont. We geared up and were on the trail by 7:23am.
The first half of the Bucklin trail was pretty flat. As we were walking towards the sun, I kept walking through spider webs across the narrow trail. It got so bad I had to raise my LEKI poles in front of me as I walked so I could knock down the spider webs before walking through them. Once there was a spider in the middle of the trail and I had to try and skirt around him, but it didn’t work.
Soon we got to a right hand turn and the trail started to get steep.
As we were heading up, it became foggy. We stopped and took a break and we were in an area where all the pine trees had old mans beard on them and it was blowing in the breeze. Seeing it in the fog was cool.
Soon we were at Cooper’s Lodge. We took a short break and checked it out.
From the lodge, there were several trails to choose from. I checked the map I copied out of Hiking Vermont (outdated) and I figured that Killington was SE from the lodge. As yes, there was a trail heading southeast. We past the “Cooper Pooper” and ended up on Killington, but not the summit.
We hung out here for a little while, and then headed back to the lodge.
We took the other trail then found the blue blazed trail to the summit.
The last 2/10ths to the summit was the hardest two tenths we have done in a while.
As we headed up, a radio tower broke out of the fog.
When we got to the top, there was no view.
As we were eating lunch, the clouds broke for a minute and we could see a cloud over Little Killington and a cloud over Pico.
We learned of the café on Killington so we had to check it out. I was going to get a hot dog but not for $4.
While we were there, the clouds cleared and we had a great view of Pico. Also when we went back up to the summit, most the clouds were gone and we had views, but there were still clouds on the horizon.
The hike down the steep section went slow but we had no problems.
The rest of the hike down went pretty fast.
Soon we were back on the road heading home.

To check out our pictures, go to:
http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/564662385IxLucD

A Ride to KTC.

2008-07-20T09:18:00.001-07:00

I left my house in Berwick Maine this morning and rode to the Kittery Traffic Circle. It’s a 33-mile ride that goes through South Berwick and Eliot to Kittery.
In the beginning of the ride, on Berwick road, I go down a long hill. I went 36mph down the hill, my fastest yet. Then I take a left onto Blackberry Hill Rd. This road has several long ups & downs until I take a right onto Rt. 4. There’s one last hill before I get to Rt. 236.
Rt. 236 ends at the Kittery Traffic Circle. It’s very long and flat, with several small hills.
Just before the circle, I start to sprint.
I go around the KTC hitting 20mph. Once out of the Circle, I head back.
Once I get past the on ramps to Rt. 95 and Rt. 1, I take a break.
While still riding, I ate a Trail Mix bar and drank Gatorade.
The trip back is harder. Most of 236 has a subtle incline. Once off of Rt. 236, I have to go up the several big hills I went down earlier.
The hardest hill is on Berwick road, just before I get home. It’s a long incline and gets steeper at the end.
When I’m at the top, I coast down to my driveway, which is another hill.
This ride took me just under 2 hours and I did it 15 minutes faster than a few weeks ago.
The ride to KTC is a new part of my training. On Saturday mornings, I ride a 16-mile ride on my road bike, and then in the afternoon I do a 10-mile mountain bike ride, half on the road and half on a trail.
I’m hoping to join some of my friends and does a Century ride in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The 100-mile ride starts and ends at Lincoln Woods off of the Kancamagus Highway.

7/14/08 Dorset/Pico hike

2008-07-15T07:42:00.000-07:00

Name of mountain(s): 3770’Dorset/3957’Pico

Name of trail(s): Unsigned, unblazed. Sherburne Pass.
Hike date(s): 7/14/08 Weather and trail conditions: Overcast, sunny, overcast.
Total miles hiked: 12.6 Trip report: It rained all night. I didn’t get much sleep, if any.
Around 1:30am, I started packing up Base Camp. I took my time and I was back to the truck by 3am. I tried to sleep but that didn’t happen.
At 3:45am, I ate a Trail Mix bar and Ibuprofen and was on my way to Dorset, Vermont.
I found it with no problems.
I was able to go up the road further with my truck.
I parked in a clearing on the right around 4:30am.
I dropped the tailgate of my truck and cooked breakfast. I cleaned up, geared up, and was on the trail by 5:30am.
The trail starts out as a gravel road, then turns into a grass road. Soon I was in the woods.
I crossed a small stream then the trail was eroded. The trail looked more like a dried up stream.
Soon I passed a cabin on the left and the trail got steep.
After a long, slippery ascent, the trail leveled off with ferns on both sides.
I reached a T in the trail and took a right.
This is where my memory slips.
Heading up the trail, I took a right at either the first cairn or the second cairn.
Anyway, the right hand turn I took was an overgrown, steep, slippery trail up to South Dorset.
After reaching the summit, I headed back down to the (snowmobile) trail.
Here at the junction, there was a sign to N. Dorset, and also a new pile of moose dropping. There was also a doorknob on the tree where the sign was (?).
The 3/10ths hike over to North Dorset was easy. The only problem was avoiding the moose dropping piles and big mud puddles.
I saw the summit canister and I knew I made it.
I took a short break and headed down.
The hike back was a bit slippery but went fast.
Once back to the truck, I headed over to Killington.
I parked at the Sherburne Pass trailhead.
I geared up and was off.
Once on the trail (this trail is the old Appalachian/Long Trail) my legs started to hurt.
The trail was easy going all the way to the Pico Junction where the Pico camp is.
From here it is 4/10ths to the summit, and it was a tough one for my sore legs.
I eventually got to the building covered summit.
I was cloudy and I could only see parts of Killington, and maybe Mendon off in the distance.
I took a couple handfuls of GORP and headed down.
The descent went fast.
I got back to my truck and the sun was out.
I took a short break and headed back home, which took me over 3 hours.
The original plan was to bag 6 Hundred Highest peaks in 5 days but after hiking Stratton, Equinox, and Dorset, I decided to finish my journey on Pico.
Originally, I was going to head over to hike Breadloaf Mtn. and Mt. Wilson after hiking Dorset but I wasn’t up to the 15.6 mile round trip. Maybe next time.

67 of 100

To check out the photos from this hike, go to:
http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/564119226ZWmUKv

7/13/08 Stratton/Equinox hike

2008-07-15T06:57:00.000-07:00

Name of mountain(s): 3940’Stratton/3850’Equinox Name of trail(s): AT/LT. Red Gate/Blue Summit
Hike date(s): 7/13/08 Weather and trail conditions: Sunny to start. Became cloudy near summit of Stratton. It was cloudy the rest of the day.
Total miles hiked: 14.4 Trip report: I woke up at 3am and was on my way to Vermont by 3:50am. Leaving Berwick Maine, I was on the AT/LT by 7:50am.
With all the gear I needed, my pack weighed 47lb. It took a little while getting use to the pack, but my new LEKI Carbonlite trekking poles helped tremendously.
After I crossed the International Paper Rd., I looked for a campsite. I found a site and it was way off the trail.
I made Base Camp and I put a few things inside the tent from my backpack so I could lighten my load.
While I was heading up the trail, the clouds rolled in. When I got to the summit, it was overcast.
Going towards the summit tower, there was a guy and girl heading up.
I dropped my pack and looked around the summit.
When they came down the tower, I went up. The higher I went up the tower, the windier it got. I had to take off my hat and clip it to a carabineer so I wouldn’t lose it.
The top of the tower is enclosed with glass. There were good views but I couldn’t see too far towards the horizon.
After a couple of minutes, I headed down, grabbed my pack, and went down to Base Camp.
When I got back to BC, it was 11:30am.
I thought to myself, I would go nuts if I spend the rest of the day inside the tent. So I decided to pack up BC and headed back to the truck.
I decided to head over to Mt. Equinox.
The ride over was awesome. There were great silhouettes of the Green Mountains and they were great.
I drove to the last parking lot on W. Union and parked next to the green gate.
I threw back on my pack and hiked the Red Gate Tr. to the Blue Summit Tr.
Just past the junction where the Red Gate Tr. turns right, I saw a sign stating that it was private property. So from here I found a campsite.
After setting up Base Camp again, I headed up the Blue Summit Tr.
The trail starts out as a wide road, very eroded. I was starting to get tired and sore.
Soon the road turned into a narrow trail, still eroded. Then after a right turn at a junction, it got really steep, with several steep drop-offs.
The trail became ruthless/relentless. It would turn right, then left, then around, then through, getting steeper as I progressed.
Towards the top, there was a blue arrow pointing to the right, so I took a right.
There were no blue blazes and it was going down hill.
I turned around and went back to the junction.
I went straight and after this point, the trail is a free for all to the summit.
When I finally got to the summit, I saw the old hotel. I went to the porch and checked out the view north. Then I went to the parking lot and looked south. Good views.
The trip back down was rough and very slippery.
I couldn’t find any water on the trail so I had to head back down to my truck to get some.
By the time I got back to BC, I was beat.
I made dinner, did the dishes, and hung my food bag.
It started to rain but the leaves on the trees were keeping me dry.
By the time I got everything into the tent, it started to downpour.
The leaves became saturated and didn’t provide cover anymore. Soon I discovered that the rain fly leaks. Great.

To check out the photo’s, go to:
http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/564120099tdggkQ

On a bike ride.

2008-07-15T06:52:00.000-07:00

7/3/08 Parker Mtn. backpack

2008-07-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

After coming home from work, I grabbed my backpack and headed to Parker Mountain, Strafford, NH. Shortly after starting up the Carter Smith Tr., I started to look for a camp site. Halfway up the steep, eroded trail, I looked to the left and saw a small clearing. I checked it out and it was too small. I continued to look around the area and I saw a perfect spot. It was about 10' from a rocky ledge with a good view.

When setting up the tent and fly, I couldn't get a few stakes in. Oh well.

After the tent was up, I made dinner. I found a spot about 20' from the tent.

Just before I finished eating, it started to rain. I put on my rain gear and finished dinner. I cleaned up my mess, then hung my food bag.

I needed to get water so I grabbed my water filter and 2 1-liter water bottles, then I put it all in a Marker Basket bag.

I knew where there was a stream so I headed up the Carter Smith Tr., then down the Link Tr. I went all the way down the Link Tr. and didn't find the stream.

I remembered that the stream crossed the Mooers Loop Tr. so I took a left at the end of the Link Tr. When I found the stream, there was no stream, just a few puddles. The water was flowing slowly so I knew it was safe to filter.

After I filled the liter bottles, I headed back to camp. It was a pain carrying 2 1-liter bottles in a Market Basket bag. Next time I'll bring my pack.

Halfway up the Link Tr., the sun came out.

When I made it back to camp, I wanted some Pistachio's out of the food bag. When I pulled the bag over the branch, it came down and hit a boulder and cracked my coffee cup. Oh No! I will not do that again.

I got into my tent and changed. I hung my wet clothes on a few clothes lines I put inside the tent. Hopefully they will be dry by morning.

I woke up at 10:30pm and I had to use the bathroom. Shortly after getting back in the tent, I heard voices. Some guys and girls were heading down the trail, talking up a storm. After that, I could not get back to sleep.

By 12am, I decided to head down. I couldn't fall back asleep and I was all tensed up.

I broke down camp and headed down the foggy CS Tr.

I got back to my truck with no problem and headed back home.

I felt defeated.

After waking up on the couch, I tried to figure out what went wrong.

Is it too peaceful out in the mountains? Do I need daily stress to sleep?

After reviewing the evening, I realized that when I can't sleep, I should do something (multi task). I should eat if I'm hungry and read if I can't sleep.

Hopefully it will be different when I attempt 6 Hundred Highest peaks in Vermont in 5 days.

Go to: http://community.webshots.com/album/563994440ZpUknd

to see the pictures.

6/22/08 Crocker Mountain hike

2008-06-23T16:39:00.000-07:00

Jenifer and myself sent Saturday night at Dolly Copp campground. We woke up at 4am, broke down camp, and headed to Crocker Mountain.

We were on the trail by 8am.

The trail was wet and the bog bridges with moss on them were slippery. As we were heading up, we saw many piles of moose droppings, like they had a convention or something. We saw their footprints in the mud and we also saw small tracks that may have been a young moose following its mother.

Soon it started to rain so we took a break and put on our rain gear. Shortly later, it stopped.

The first view that we had was of Stony Brook Mountain just before the AT takes a sharp right turn.

Shortly after, Jenifers ankle was bothering her and she was tired so she said that she was done but I could continue up to the summit.

For the last mile before the summit, I walked the fastest I have ever (peakbagger).

When I got near the summit, the view opened up and I had some views east. In no time, I was at the summit. I took a couple of pictures and finished my Snickers bar.

I started back down very fast so I could catch up to Jenifer. When I stopped back where the view was, I saw S. Crocker, but I couldn’t figure out the names of the two peaks that look like pyramids.

While I was gone, Jenifer had lunch and waited. After a while, she started down the trail.

About a half hour after leaving the summit, I caught up with Jenifer. I took lunch and she continued down.

The descent was slippery in some spots but we had no problems. Jenifers ankle pain started going up to her knee so she slowed down.

By the time we got back to the Vue, it started to rain.

Shortly we were on the road for the 4 hour ride home.

For pictures, go to:
http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/563881330tkJfNI

6/20/08 Parker Mountain backpacking attempt

2008-06-21T11:50:00.000-07:00

I loaded up my pack with all the gear that I will bring on July's AT section hike. The pack was 40 pounds. I hiked up Parker Mountain then continue on the Carter Smith Tr. to the end. I was looking for a place to camp but I could not find one. The last time I was on the Carter Smith Tr. was last winter, when I saw a bunch of good camp sites, but it's much different after all the trees get there leaves back and new plant growth.

I ended up coming home and pitching my tent in the back yard. I made dinner on my camp stove and did the dishes, like I was in the woods. I watched a movie, then I spent the night in the tent.

After a night of little sleep, I got up at 4:30am and made breakfast in my back yard.

One of the problems I may have on my section hike is that when I leave camp in the morning, the tent fly will still be wet. Hopefully mold will not start to form on the fly.

Another hobby

2008-05-31T14:06:00.000-07:00

Also another hobby of mine is riding road bike. I ride on weekends doing between 12 and 33 miles a day. Someday I'll get a picture of me on my bike, and not in back of my truck.

I would like to do a 100 mile ride around the White Mountains but that will have to wait a while.

July's AT Section hike.

2008-04-27T17:19:00.004-07:00

I just bought the 10th edition of the Appalachian Trail Guide for New Hampshire-Vermont. The original 132.4 mile section of the AT I'm planning to hike changed to 134.8 miles. What's a few extra miles.

I have a good idea on the gear that I'll need for the hike. I packed it all in my backpack and it was 32 lb., that was without water and food. The pack felt bulky but I can get use to that. Now I'm trying to figure out what food to bring.

I am planning on camping off the trail every night. I've made plans on where I want to camp but it will be interesting to see if the topo maps and the trail are the same.

It's still a couple months away but I can't wait.

This years hiking schedule.

2008-04-12T13:56:00.000-07:00

Besides making plans to hike mountains from the NE67 list, I'm also planning a section hike of the AT.

I'm planning on starting in Vermont from Vt.9 near Bennington and hiking to Hanover NH. It's 132.4 miles and I hope to do it in 7 days. While I'm section hiking the Appalachian Trail, I'll will be going up Stratton Mountains, which is on the 100 Highest list. I'm starting to plan for it now and there's a ton of things I need to get ready.

Killington/Pico hike on 3/6/08.

2008-04-05T08:19:00.000-07:00

I was planning on joining several others and hiking up Killington and Pico in Vermont on 3/6/08.

I need Killington for my NE67 list and Pico for my 100 Highest list.

Researching the hike, I found information about the "Spring Mud Season" between early March and late May.

It suggests that you avoid higher elevation trails since snow melt makes trails extremely muddy and hikers avoid the mud by walking off the trails. Plus, I didn't want to drive 3 hours to find a trail too muddy to hike.

I am planning on going up this summer with my wife Jenifer (she is also working on the NE67) and we can bag Pico and Killington.

Welcome to my blog

2008-04-02T13:54:00.001-07:00

I have created this blog to share my hiking experiences. I have finished the Four Thousand Footer Club of the White Mountains. I am now working on the New England 67 and the Hundred Highest. I am also section hiking the AT. I have done sections in New York, New Jersey, and New Hampshire.