It's becoming more apparent that fall is on its way. The katydids are calling. A few leaves have fallen. Days are noticeably shortening, to the point where last night I was surprised to be ending our ride in darkness. But we soak up the last of the summer, the beginning of the end of evening rides …
I woke up at 5:30 simply so that I would be awake long enough that I'd want to eat before leaving the house. The thought of eating right after waking up is repulsive. I'm going to go ride my bike for a while today. 36 miles to be exact, mostly on trail. Rocky trail. I'm …
I turned 27 on Monday, celebrating another year around the sun with a long bike ride, food and beer baby, and a movie in bed before falling asleep just after dark. I've always liked my birthday, but not in some sort of narcissistic look-at-me-and-how-great-I-am sort of way. I just like the time of year during …
I miss writing. This seems like kind of a strange and ironic statement now that I have a full-time gig at a media company and writing is actually a huge part of my job. But what I mean is that I miss writing for myself. I miss writing the very personal, experience-based stories that are …
I think today more than ever, it’s easy to get caught up in the belief that our own lives are mundane. The internet constantly throws articles about traveling to far-off lands in our faces. Instagram makes it easier than ever to see a lot of beautiful people doing amazing things. Every single day, our news feeds are …
When I am mentally tired and not functioning properly, a good ride can set it all straight again. Riding bikes is like a reset button for my brain and my soul. And no matter how many other things I “should” be doing, I never, ever regret going on that ride. Read the full version of …
I rode the Juliana Joplin C from October 2016-January 2017 and reviewed it for Singletracks.com. From the review: Sometimes, it can be hard to put your finger on just what it is you love about a bike. You can look at the specs and the numbers, but there’s more to the story. Some bikes just …
As I chased Evan and Ryan on new-to-me trails in Bald Eagle State Forest yesterday, cutting fresh tracks into powder under a perfectly clear sky, I began to review this past year in my head. While it's seen it's fair share of challenges and tough times, I find myself focusing on the positive, and being …
I find snow to be very comforting. Somehow, when the desolate winter world is suddenly encased in white, it seems a lot less barren and lonely. The night looks a little brighter. Everything feels softer. The sensation of delicate snowflakes hitting my face. The satisfaction of creating the first tracks in fresh powder, whether is …
You know it was a good day when it ends with 11 of your friends plus all the waitstaff at the Mexican restaurant singing Feliz Cumpleanos while you wear a sombrero and drink tequila because your husband told the waiter that it was your birthday when it's really not. That ending is even better when …
helena kotala 