Still Here

I've been busy, too lax to write, and somewhat sick the last few days. As a result, the blog goes way, way down on the priority list.

Rides: 264 shuttle with Chris. Lots of climbing for a shuttle run. Top to bottom was about 2 hours with Chris leading the way for most of it. For a big guy, his power to weight ration is just fine, and slightly exceeds mine. Technically, he has the edge a bit climbing with that fancy pants Bionicon. Descending, he flat blows me away. It is good to ride with folks better than yourself, which I find to be most people I ride with. Helps to push me and keep me on my toes a bit.

The initial climb up W Spruce was difficult and technical with great views. The descent off W. Spruce on the road was steep, loose, and a bit terrifying. Chris loved it and quickly dropped me. I don't like moving that fast in loose stuff. Reconnecting with 264 was the best part. Beautiful singletrack descent that reminded me a bit of the Mcdowells. Huge Manzanitas and Junipers. Some spring flowers are out as well. I managed to flat, then pinch the rear tire three times while slowing down for a total of 7 punctures I just now patched. I am starting to dislike these narrow DT rims, and really want to go back to tubeless. I lack the time or motivation to do a rim swap and set up a tubeless system right now, however.

On the Dosie pit road back to the car, Chris challenged me with a bit of tempo riding for about 10 minutes. I suffered, but held his wheel. I never ride at that thresh hold when by myself. I was basically just on the edge of going anaerobic. It hurt. It was fun to push.

"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."

Today was a bit chilly for the commute, but I think I only have this week to wear a jacket until summer comes. The moisture in the air smelt great on the return trip.

I felt basically like crap going to bed last night. Strung out, depressed, defeated, and quite tired. I really struggle at times with the reality of this faith journey I have been on for now some 31 years. I don't see myself walking away from the lord, but I sure am questioning and wanting clear answers. A good night's sleep did me some wonders, and I was able to wake up to Psalm 34 this morning. Another of my favorites.

Excerpts that spoke to my heart:

"I sought the Lord and he answered me; he rescued me from all my fears."

God promises he will be found by those who seek him. Help me to seek you lord, show yourself real to me.

"This poor man called, and the lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles."

"Taste and see that the lord is good; Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.
Fear the lord, you his saints, for those who fear him lack nothing.
The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the lork lack no good thing."

Another verse that goes back about 20 years for me. We are invited to taste and see. Test God. He will prove himself. He is not fragile.

"The lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."