Before I departed for the last part of ACA's Pacific Coast route that I had to still ride there was another adventure ahead of me: a trip to Yosemite to hike up Half Dome. It had been years since the last time I did this hike. Since the last time I summited this iconic peak the NPS had began a permit system to lower the impact that the massive number of hikers were having on the area, but more on that later.

     On the way to Yosemite the four of us, myself, M--, P--- and B----, decided to stop and take a look at a bit of history. Just off the road was the site of Mark Twain's cabin.  We wandered around, read the plaque (which motivated me to read Roughing It) and then got back on the road.

Mark Twain's cabin

     As we entered Jamestown P--- suddenly realized we were going to be gone for four days. He thought it was only a two day trip. He declared he didn't have the time off work and needed to go back. We attempted to get him a Lyft or an Uber. Neither was available to go the distance he needed. So we sought a rental car. The closest thing we could procure was a Uhaul. So, only a couple hours into the trip, we had already lost a beloved member of our party.

Everyone was a bit philosophical after P--- left the group 

      

We contemplated the loss of P—- from our party and did the only thing we deemed sensible, continued on. We entered Yosemite, got our backcountry permit and headed to the first nights camp. Minutes after we began setting up camp we saw a small bear! We quietly watched from about 50 feet away until some dumb hipster with a man bun snuck up behind the bear trying to take its picture. The bear was startled and ran, coming within inches of B——. We cursed the hipster and finished setting up camp.

Why it's not a good idea to get too close to a bear

     Shortly after we went for quick jaunt to go to Mirror Lake. Along the way we spotted another bear! This one was twice the size of the one we had seen only thirty minutes before. It was laying on a rock about a hundred yards off the trail. Again, some moron tried to get closer to get a better picture. This caused the bear to stand up on all fours to assess the situation. Once it figured out it could easily maul the idiot approaching it, the bear lay back down. We moved on, and didn't hear anything later about someone getting maimed, so I suspect another clueless person escaped getting a Darwin Award that day. This was the fourth bear I had seen in the wild in the last three weeks! The only other time I had seen a bear in the wild before these sightings was about fourteen years ago. The bear is a very special animal to me, representing power, strength, and individuality.

The bear that almost knocked over B----

     Mirror Lake was barely a puddle when we got there. It was an overall pleasant hike though, despite the smoke from nearby fires, and we saw a small snake swimming in the shallow waters. B---- snapped this photo of stone steps and rocks that people had been piling up:

     The next morning we celebrated my birthday and hiked 6.1 miles to camp in Little Yosemite Valley. We took our time, meandering up the Mist Trail alongside Vernal Falls, pausing at the top to take in the scenery. We met back up with the John Muir Trail at the top of Nevada Falls and were elated when we finally reached base camp. Both falls were spectacular and we spotted several deer along the way. Not too soon after we had camp setup, we heard rockfall. About a week after we completed our trip we heard news of a few larger rock slides in the valley below, slides that claimed the lives of several people. A reminder of how powerful nature is, and that people don't have as much control as they think they do.

Vernal Falls

Nevada Falls

     Day two of our back country excursion, 8.2 miles. We were in good spirits, having spent part of the night looking at the Milky way and glad some of the smoke had cleared.  We were also satisfied we had chosen to do this as a multi-day trip, instead of as a day hike as many people choose to do. It gave us more time to enjoy our surroundings and not feel rushed. As we hiked along and the views began to increase we saw a couple more smaller fires that had begun that morning. The smoke would continue to accumulate over our remaining time, though it wouldn't become insufferable.  We eventually reached the sub dome and it's rough hewn rock stairs. At the base was a ranger checking for permits. Several people were turned away. The last time I had done this hike there was no permit system in place, and it was a crowded mess to say the least. Now, it was limited to only 300 hikers a day. It was difficult to get permits for our group, but in the end I am glad the system is in place now. It made for a much less crowded and enjoyable experience, especially as we began the ascent up the cables.

Going up the sub dome

B---- and me at the base of the cables

     As we neared the top of the cables, the line suddenly stopped moving. A young woman ahead of us was suffering from severe leg cramps and couldn't move. B----, being the gentleman that he is, managed to get her on his back and carry her the rest of the way up. After setting her down, giving her some electrolyte snacks, and showing her some stretches, we roamed around the top of the fabled Half Dome. We spent a little over an hour soaking in the amazing views before heading back down. The woman was still where she had been earlier, her friends that had begun the day hike with her that morning had finally shown up. She was still having problems so B---- carried her halfway back down the cables until she decided to try going down the rest of the way on her own. She struggled, but made it.

 The infamous Captain's stance atop Half Dome

B---- declaring victory

     We made our way back to camp, reveling in our surroundings. Once we made it back we all had a quick dunk in the river and then made dinner with a side of conversation before heading off to bed. The next morning we opted to take the John Muir trail on the way back, about 6 miles to the trail head. It was substantially less crowded than the route we had taken up, and with better views. Once we did make it back to the village we had celebratory pizza, which was surprisingly good. We loaded our gear back in my truck and began the drive back to civilization and 100+ degree heat, already planning more adventures for the future.

M-- and me at the top of Nevada Falls 

One of the many impressive views from the John Muir Trail

Victory pizza!

     Next time, the Captain goes international...

     

                              

     It's been over two years since my last post, but I have decided to revive my little corner of the internet. Why now? I've been having quite a few adventures lately and simply want an outlet where I can share them. This time around the blog will focus mainly on my travels, think of them as more of dispatches from 'out there'. I don't plan on having a regular schedule for when these dispatches will be released, but it won't be two years between posts. Now, on with the show!

     After years of section riding the Adventure Cycling Association's Pacific Coast Route, I have completed it! In June I rode Amtrak's Coast Starlight train from Sacramento to Santa Barbara to begin the completion of the southern part I had yet to ride. It was my first time riding the train and it was fantastic. I met new people, and saw parts of the country I wouldn't have otherwise seen. Taking my bike on the train was easy and convenient. All I did was hand it up into the baggage car, no need to box it. In Santa Barbara I stayed at an Air B&B for the first time. This particular one was more like a hostel than anything else. On this trip I celebrated 10 years with my Novara Randonee, as well as 50,000 miles on it. I rode 103 miles my first day and stayed with my girlfriend in Redondo Beach. I rode through Camp Pendelton, saw signs warning me of tanks crossing (though I didn't actually see any). I met other cycle tourists, who warmly chatted with me about their travels. On this southern stretch people definitely were friendlier than the parts of the route I had previously ridden, and the cycling scene overall was more abundant. The terrain was also easier, much flatter than the rest I had experienced.

     There were, of course, hills. Mostly toward the end, as I approached La Jolla. I passed through San Diego, riding over the bridge that bears the mirror universe moniker of my name.

     As I approached the border of Mexico, outside of Imperial Beach, the roads became quiet and the country side a sublime hilly desert. The ride ended at the ocean, at Border Field state park. I didn't realize until I got there that there was no actual border crossing. I had to enjoy Mexico through a giant, double layer fence. Despite the fact it was just after 9AM, a mariachi band played in front of the bull ring in Tijuana. I enjoyed the sounds of the band mingling with those of the sea, and swore one day I would ride south again, and actually into Mexico. 

Sometimes I dress ridiculously when I ride my bicycle

So close, yet so far!

The Ocean at Border Field State Park

     In the meantime my thoughts turned north, to the last section of the route left: Vancouver, BC to Washington. Until next time...

     As those who know me know, I strive to be honest at all times, especially with myself. I was reminded recently of how important self honesty is while I watched the movie Wet Hot American Summer. Lies, deceit, and broken promises can eat you from the inside and cause frustration and pain, which is so unnecessary in this already awkward and complicated thing called life. And the thing is, it doesn't even have to be you that's doing the lying and deceiving. It can be someone else and you will still have all the effects thrust upon you. So, don't be like the scum that spread pain, do your best to always be honest. Never shirk from the truth, even if it hurts.

     More crazy rafting exploits were had this week on a fun trip from Coloma to Salmon Falls. It was a warm, cloudless day. Every member of the crew were all new to rafting, and they all did great for their first time. The river was crowded, so we played bumper boats a few times, and got in a few splash battles. One of the boats we waged water war with had a large pirate flag on a mast! ARRRRR!!! We found a paddle along the way as well. In Hospital Bar the boat was thrust almost straight up. It was a rollicking good time! One of the crew was a girl from Italy. She was the second person this year from another country that I've had the experience of rafting with. I pointed out that we were starting our journey in the area where James Marshall discovered gold in 1848, leading to the gold rush, which in turn changed and shaped America. I believe a lot of us who live here take that fact for granted and don't think too much about it, but that one event was really a pivotal moment in the history of our nation. Back to rafting though, this picture pretty much sums up how much everyone enjoyed the trip:

     Okay, I'm going to nerd out a bit now, but not too much. I went to see Ant-Man. And you know what? I really liked it. It had just the right blend of action, humor, and drama. It's lighter in tone than a couple of the more recent films in the Marvel cinematic universe, but that's just fine with me. It's a fantastic romp with some great special effects. You don't have to be a fan of the other Marvel movies to enjoy this one, but if you are, there are a few references to the other movies woven into this one. There are also two post credits scenes, so stick around for those. And even though it's a movie about becoming small, you should definitely see this one on the big screen.

     I'm sure you can guess what time it is now. Selfie time! This week's selfie was taken on my most recent white water adventure. Just like last week I've opted to go black and white, and get a little contrasty. 

Selfie #30

     Until next time readers, when you find yourself spending too much time on the internet and are looking for a reason why you should log off, remember

     It's been a little over a year and, at long last, I am finally back to where I was financially when I made the decision to replace the motor in my truck. It has taken a lot of work and will power but the happiness my progress has brought has made all my efforts worthwhile. I realize I still have a long way to go before my quest is over, but the knowledge that I am a third of the way to my goal encourages me and strengthens my resolve to keep doing better, to press on no matter how hard the struggle may be. I have been thinking again of how I must be aware of my spending, to not just buy every little thing that catches my attention. I do slip sometimes, but when I do I think deeply about what I have done. Why do I keep sabotaging myself? How many hours will I have to work to pay for the thing I just bought? I remind myself that material possessions alone will not make me happy. It helps a lot that I don't buy and sell cars with the frequency I used to. As an aside, I've owned my current truck for about three and a half years now, and have not owned another motor vehicle that whole time. I'm pretty sure that's a record for me. Back to the topic at hand: I will not dwell on the hard road ahead but instead I shall rejoice in the victories I've attained.

     I'm done with women. Okay, not really. But at the very least I'm done with the game of chasing women. I have been told repeatedly over the years that women love being chased but it is my experience that that is total bullshit. It's never really worked for me. Sure, I can say maybe it's because I'm not good looking enough, or I don't have a suitable career to attract a partner, but fuck that. I'm more than good enough. I AM AWESOME. If someone else can't see that. then fine. Their loss. I am done playing games and wasting time. Women say they want a guy who will treat them right and go out and have fun. I don't buy it. Too many women seem to fall for jerks who make them miserable and treat them like shit. Whatever floats their boat, I guess. I really don't want to be with a woman who likes to be in that situation anyway. I want a woman that's got the confidence and self worth to recognize her reality, not someone who lives in an illusion. Thus concludes my broad statement.

     As I write this, July 20, 2015, It is now the 46th anniversary of humans landing on the moon. The thought of this always amazes me. People coming together for a single cause. With 1969 technology NASA sent a team of men to the moon. Really seriously think about this, please. Going through our planet's atmosphere, traveling 250,000 miles, and then actually getting out and walking on the surface! With the technology we have today, we should surely be able to send people to Mars sooner rather than later. Now, don't worry, I haven't forgotten about the recently demoted Pluto. The New Horizons probe has taken some fantastic pictures of everyone's favorite dwarf planet this past week. If you haven't seen them I highly suggest doing an image search. And while you're at it, look up how far Pluto is and how long it took to get there. The immensity of out solar system, let alone our galaxy and universe, is truly mind boggling. 

'Nuff said

     Okay, I get it. Enough of my ranting. I know what you all really came here for today. To see another splendid portrait of me! This week's selfie was taken once again along the Folsom South Canal trail. I've gone the artsy route and made it black and white, just like the truth! 

Selfie #29

     That brings this week's post to an end dear readers. So until next time, when you are confronted with a conundrum just remember the Skeletor mantra

     For the Commander's birthday this year, we took to the water and embarked on an epic voyage from Chili Bar to Salmon Falls. The crew arrived at my house and we managed to load all the gear into a BMW 3 series. Yes, you read that correctly. All the gear for the day fit into a marvel of German engineering. After we set up at the put in the trip started out well, maneuvering through Meatgrinder, rocketing through Racehorse Bend, and tearing through Triple Threat. We made all the moves we needed in the rock gardens. Then we got to Troublemaker.Things were looking good, then we hit the first drop. We were pushed a little too sideways and I was, somehow, the only one who didn't fall out. I did what I could and recovered two of my crew mates, while the Commander was rescued by a dashing man in a rubber ducky. After getting her back aboard and recovering, we stopped for lunch and assessed the situation. One of the crew had injured his ankle, not severely, while the Commander had hit her back. Hard. She was in a lot of pain, but decided to finish the trip like the bad ass she is. She had also lost one of her shoes, but at lunch we found a lone, random flip flop that was the right foot and size for her. Along the way of the rest of the journey we spotted a deer in the bushes along the river bank, and at one point, a rainbow. I sat at the very front of the boat through some of the larger rapids in the Gorge. Which was, believe it or not, a first for me. Other antics ensued and, in the end, it was one of the most memorable undertakings I've had in awhile. We finished up the birthday festivities with amazing food at the River Shack.

The embodiment of the feeling of rafting

     I am happy to say I have achieved another level up victory in my campaign to slay the debt beast! I have now earned the badge of level six! It's taken me a little over a year to achieve this but, as I progress, leveling up gets a little bit easier. I must continue to use my experience to stay the course and march onward toward the end game and victory!

     And now for a whole lot of random thoughts... I recently learned that one of my friends, and a true inspiration to me, is going to Everest base camp in a few months. This has motivated me to try to summit Mount Whitney once again. Perhaps as early as late September. Yes, I know a few months ago I declared a moratorium on trips until my credit card is paid off. But I'm a million different people from one day to the next and there are a limited number to all of our days, and few of us know what that number is, I've also thought of ending this blog again, and just hiding out for awhile from everyone, though I probably won't. I sometimes hate that I'm just one more egocentric person who overshares and thinks that the world cares what I'm doing. And just so everyone knows, I do realize I am girl crazy and fall for women who aren't right for me, or feel I'm not right for them. This is because as much as love needs a fool, I will always need love more. It's not a flaw, or a weakness, it's the way I am. I do feel insecure and unsure sometimes, but I still go on, because I remain confident and I WILL NOT GIVE UP. I may not know who I am, but I know who I'm not. If any of that seems contradictory, think again. I've examined myself a bit, now hopefully that will encourage everyone to examine themselves as well, even if just a small amount.

     Here's another little reflection of me- the selfie of the week! Just me pondering things, including everything I just mentioned.

Selfie #28

     Until next time my introspective readers, remember

     It's that time of year once again when everyone in America celebrates our country's independence! That being said, I have a first for this blog: a homework assignment! I want everyone to go and learn for yourselves why we really celebrate this day, the reasons why the people who founded this country did what they did. Seriously, how much do you really know? You may be surprised at some of the stuff you find out. I also suggest that instead of using it as an excuse to get drunk and act the fool you contemplate what it means to you to be an American. Also, George Washington REALLY liked ice cream. True story. Happy fourth!

Freedom!!!

     How did I celebrate my freedoms this week? I'm glad you asked! I reveled in the outdoors, of course! One of the highlights include a bike ride home on the evening of the full moon when it began to sprinkle and a rainbow appeared. How awesome is that? A rainbow on the eve of the full moon? On another morning I experienced a thunder storm, rumbling loudly, letting loose with rain, disappearing almost as quickly as it arrived. And of course what kind of freedom loving weekend would it be without a rafting trip? I have to add that it was one of the most fun rafting trips I've had in a while. Watch the video and you'll get a hint of the awesomeness that was had. We all had a blast just relaxing and being in the moment.

This says it all

     I had an indoor adventure recently as well, when I saw Terminator: Genisys. If you are a fan of the franchise, or sci-fi in general,  don’t miss this one! It's definitely one you'll want to experience on the big screen. I would recommend watching the first two films if it's been awhile since you've seen them, as there are some nods to them in this most recent movie. This movie has a good mix of action, time travel, sci-fi, and a dash of humor to even things out. Go see it already!

      Here's this week's on the fly, impromptu, and improvised Selfie of the week!

Selfie #27

     I have no parting words of wisdom for you this week dear readers, but I do leave you with this:

     Once every couple of millennium or so an event so mind boggling and unimaginable happens that no one would believe it. But I am here to tell you every word you are about to read is the pure unadulterated truth! The Commander bought herself a road bike! I never thought I would see the day, but once she test rode it, it seemed she was hooked. She's taken it out on a couple rides and is building her stamina and endurance, and I am looking forward to getting a chance to cruise with her as she glides along on her lean, mean, black and blue machine, which I will henceforth refer to as Bruiser. I'm looking forward to seeing what this dynamic duo will do together!

The Commander and Bruiser

     The Commander's not the only one getting out there though. I headed out to Desolation Wilderness recently to do an overnighter at Lake Aloha, with two companions. It was their first time ever backpacking and they handled it like champs! The whole hike in we took in the amazing views. After we set up camp we swam in the lake, jumped off a small rock, and even spotted a small water snake. We explored the nearby granite slabs and took in the wonder of the surrounding peaks. Clouds moved in and thunder occasionally rumbled, and it very lightly sprinkled sporadically. During the night I stood beneath the sky a couple of times to take in what I could of the landscape. I was surprised how bright it actually was considering the cloud cover and the moon being about half full. After I made my way back to my tent I quickly drifted to sleep, head full of the wonders I had seen.

Lake Aloha basin

     The next morning we decided to take a side trip on the hike out to see Lake of the Woods. Our route dropped down into a small canyon before descending to our destination. Though small, the canyon was beautiful in it's way. Granite walls climbed above us on both sides as we made our way through the vegetation filled arroyo. Once we got to the lake we had to do a bit of cross country hiking and route finding and, at one point, wade across some shallows. After some team work we eventually picked up the trail again and admired the alpine setting. We soaked it all in, enjoying the ease of having a trail to follow, before we began the ascent to the trail we hiked in on. As we neared the trail head the clouds grew thick once again and the rain began. It was actually pleasant and helped to wash away some of the trail dirt. After we got back to the truck, talk of future trips quickly ensued. All of which I will keep you informed about, my dear readers.

Lake of the Woods

     As with most overnighters, it felt like I was gone for longer than I actually was. The temperature was a full twenty degrees hotter than the area we had left. It didn't stop me from running when I got back though. Yup, despite the fact it was 94°F and I had just returned from backpacking. Enough of that though, I don't want to keep anyone waiting too long for what I know is everyone's real reason for reading this blog: THE SELFIE OF THE WEEK! It's a special one this week too! It's number 26, meaning I'm halfway through my year long project and you only have another six months of looking forward to seeing the weekly portraits of my visage! Please, don't be too sad about it. I am sure you can all guess where this week's installment was taken. 

Selfie #26

     Until next time my beloved readers, I encourage you all to get out there and experience this awesome planet, and to remember this blessing by the original monkey wrencher