Not Your Ordinary Hangnail

I was riding my bike down the trail near the small creek. It was a beautiful day, not too hot and not to chilly. The sun was caressing my face while the wind was pampering my body. Yonder was another cyclist, power to him but the trail wasn't big enough for the both of us. We tried to avoid eachother riding on the on the brim of the dirt trail and the dying green grass. As he passed I turned my head to scold the guy and that's when I hit the rock. The basketball sized rock drove it's fat body right into the left side of my right big toe. My nail tore right off like a sticker. Along with my poor nail was some skin that was bleeding the color of tomato juice. Of course I stopped in shock and cursed the entire world around me. The nail didn't totally tear off, there was a little piece hanging there; inviting me to tear it off. I tried but the agony was too much. So I just left it there. I went home. I bandaged it, and blamed everything on that bastard other cyclist. Now that the pain has relieved itself, I have something to never repeat again. If there is not enough space then boldy get off your bike and push the other damn bastard off the trail. No I'm not serious. Mind other riders and make sure you know what is ahead in the trail. But dear God, my right big toe looks like it was beaten with an ugly stick. 

Baskets, Baby

Maybe you think baskets on your bike look silly, or unnecessary. But in the winter time, when you are wearing your down jacket because it's windy, 10 degrees out, but also sunny (only in Boulder) with your backpack on top, it gets a little hot under that jacket, right?? That role of sweat that comes down the middle of your back and you arrive at work/class very hot, gross, and a little agitated. So why not invest in some panniers (the containers that hang off either the front or back tire)?? These come in many different forms, including straight up wire baskets, waterproof removable cloth, or standard cloth. The prices vary just as much. Some start at $20 and the highly technical/waterproof panniers can cost as much as $150. Maybe this is a pricey investment, but trust me, you will never go back!!