Sunday, September 5, 2010

Destination: The coast


Destination: The coast
Originally uploaded by BroAndDonna
Getting my butt on a bike seat is one thing, but once I'm rolling it's nothing but pure enjoyment (well, except for the serious climbs). Today's ride took us through sunny Newbury Park and Sycamore Canyon, ending at a very overcast (heavy marine layer) coast. As always, the temperature difference was amazing and I even broke out my windbreaker.

Another Sunday on the trails

We usually get a slow start to our weekends and today was no exception. I found the sofa to be quite comfortable and the idea of sitting on a bike seat for a few hours wasn't so appealing. Nevertheless, we got out for a ride and as always, I'm glad we did.

Dinner with the Mrs.


Dinner with the Mrs.
Originally uploaded by BroAndDonna
Though it was sad not being able to share a three-day weekend with Donna (who had to work Saturday) I was able to enjoy her company Saturday night over dinner at Panera. They just opened a new one about a block away from the office, so she was able to walk over to meet me. How can you not like a place that decorates their walls with photos of bicycles!

Saturday, September 4, 2010

A different kind of Saturday

I actually have a three-day weekend, the same as most people, but unfortunately Donna had to be in the office today. After sleeping in and an extremely hot bike ride, I decided there had to be some relief at the coast and sure enough, I was right. While Newbury Park seared in the 90's the coast, with it's strong wind, couldn't have been a bit over 70 degrees, if that. I was actually wishing I had a jacket with me.

Sunday, August 29, 2010

One last snapshot from tonight's sunset. It was a treat having Donna along - usually I'm soaking up sunsets by myself since Donna works during the evening hours.


We're officially Southern Californians - it's only August and we're already breaking out the fleece blanket thanks to the 'chill' of the evening's coastal breeze.


The coastal wind felt great but it wreaked havoc on my hair. I'm still trying to get out all the knots.


After a long day in the saddle, it was tempting to head home after dinner. Instead, we opted to head to the beach to watch the sunset. We spotted about a dozen sea otters - curious creatures I've never before seen here in Ventura County. We also got to see five or six dolphins pass by. The highlight of course, was the woman in the chair next to me.


What better place to take a break mid-ride than the beach. Neither of us (our legs included) wanted to pedal back home.


Spent about five hours out on the trails today. Food has suddenly become a huge priority.


Days really don't get any better than this - low 70's with a gentle breeze and a few fluffy clouds floating around.


Saturday, August 28, 2010

Now THIS is a flat tire!

Donna has had a real knack for finding thorns lately and her ride earlier this week was no exception. Not just one flat tire, but two. Such repairs usually fall into my department, which believe me, is a very small department. Meanwhile, Donna takes care of cooking, cleaning, laundry and other odds & ends that involve taking care of me. Fixing two flats tonight is the least I can do.

A little blue sky and sunshine, above the marine layer Friday night in the Santa Monica Mountains