Boilermaker Jazz Band

When I was in Baltimore a couple of weeks ago I listened to and swing danced to the Boilermaker Jazz Band. Jason gave me a couple of there tunes to check out. Once back home I went over to iTunes to see if any of BJB's music was available and I discovered that I really like "St. Phillip Street Breakdown", "Down By the Riverside" and "Home Sweet Home." Some of these tunes I can dance to at the same time I am eager to expand my dancing repertoire.

East Dix, South Dix, Hough Peaks

On the July long weekend I did an Adirondacks hike with OHOC. As a group we hiked up Mt. Marcy at 5344 feet making it the tallest peak in the Adirondacks. I spent much of the time hiking with Kevin Woodley as were of comparable strengths. On the second day I climbed Table Top at 4427 feet and Phelps at 4161 feet. Kevin climbed Colden at 4714 feet. While catching up on email at the Atlanta airport I received a email from Chris McDonald one of the leaders of the July trip to see if I wanted to climb a couple of more peaks. I shot back a quick email to say I was eager to climb a couple of peaks in the Keene Valley. Over the next couple of days we worked out the details of who would bring what gear. On Friday morning we started our journey to Lake Placid. We stopped in at EMS to rent a bear barrel which is now a requirement for overnight hiking. While waiting for ChrisMc and Kevin to sort out the barrel details I took a picture of Mirror Lake and called Jason to wish him a happy birthday on Saturday. Our next stop was to buy some last minute provisions. We would drive by the Heart Lake –Adirondack Loj access road and head south for about ten miles. Since our hiking would be done on herd path or unmarked trails we stopped in at the Mountaineer store to get some tips.

Once at the trailhead we loaded up Nalgene bottles and mounted our packs. (N44 06.729 W073 42.459) The first part of the trail was easy going until we missed a fork in the trail. After searching for a while we walked across the river and found the trail continued on the other side. The guide book said to take note of the Rock of Gibraltar so I stopped and had a couple of picture of me next to it. We would like for the three hours running the risk of setting up camp in the dark as sunset was at 7:00 pm. Much our time was spent hiking on either side of the Bouqeut River and constantly looking for the next carron. We soon left the river and started our climb. As the sun was setting the trail came to a sudden end. There was some discussion was to where we were. We had missed a campsite that we were going to use a reference point. We quickly set up our tents and ate store-bought subs for supper. The debate about our location continued and we decided to talk about it in the morning.

We were all up at 6:30. After a hot breakfast of oatmeal and tea we packed our gear. The access to East Dix (4026 feet) is via a rock slide that is about 800 yards long. Water dribbles down the slide and gave us a couple of pools in which pump water. ChrisMc was absolutely certain we had made a mistake somewhere along the hike. Gazing up at the slide it appears to be to short. We hiked down for 30 minutes and met up with the river again. I fired up the GPS and set the coordinates to UTM, ChrisMc pulled his compass and map and we studied the map. After checking and rechecking we were quite sure of where we were on the map. ChrisMc had underestimated the distance we had hiked (7.5 km/4.66 m). We decided to chance it and head back up to the slide. Once back at the slide we loaded up our daypack (REI UL Flash pack + 100 oz camelback + Nalgene bottle) with the gear and lunch we would need for the remainder of the days. It was at this point I got to know my colors a little better. Dark brown/black on rock is quite slippery while gray and white surface give you good purchase. Each of us took a different route and eventually reached the sub-summit at which point we met a well used trail. We hiked for a while before reaching the summit of East Dix (4026 feet) (N44 03.990 W073 45.413). We took a couple of pictures (solo, group) and then hiked over to South Dix along a well traveled path for about a mile. The hike to South Dix was filled with many switch backs which makes it hard to build any hiking speed. Along the way we hiked through an area where they had a blow down a couple of years ago. We stopped for lunch at the summit of South Dix (4068) (N44 03.587 W073 46.485) (pic 1) Lunch took the form of bagels, packaged tuna, carrots and fig newtons.

After lunch we started our descent into the valley that separated South Dix from Hough. We met two girls at the campsite midway that had climbed three of the four peaks that we had hoped to climb. They looked tired and beat up. There hike had started at 7:30 am from Elk Lake in the south. Over the next hour we would gain 400 feet and a rapid rate. There was a cool part of the climb I really liked. You had to take your pack off and slide sideways between two rock faces and climb up 25 feet. Once on top you could feel the full force of the wind. It was cold. We would climb for another 20 minutes before reaching the summit, a large rock (4409 feet) (N44 04.172 W073 46.667) I was forced to take off my hat as it the wind was whipping. At this point we decided not to attempt a climb of Macomb as we were short for time and it would be easily accessed from Elk Lake. Retracing our steps we hiked from Hough, to South Dix to East Dix. Before starting our descent of the slide we stopped for a Clif bar to rejuvenate. I was running low on water. I had drunk my camelback and half a nalgene bottle. Over in the distance there was some ominous black cloud. It looked like rain or snow. Just as we were starting our descent the cloud opened and it started to pore. ChrisMc and I sat underneath an overhang and waited out the rain. After clearing the sub-summit we each took a different route down to the base. I opted to head into the bush as soon as it was available. Trudging on brush gives you good traction as you hike down. This worked for a while until I mis-stepped a slipped on a black rock. I rolled as I was going down and landed on my bum and left pelvic. At a quick check over, I headed down the slide at a snails pace. Once back at camp I make some hot tea and munched on fig newtons. We were all relieved for a hot drink and something to stop the hunger pangs. Kevin and I cooked dinner which was combined three chili, bean and curry dishes. After dinner, I cut down a small maple and spruce tree. It was great to sit around the fire and reminisce about the day’s hike.

We were up at 7:30 to find that the weather had changed at it was a cool 40F. The hot tea and oatmeal were what was needed to warm us up. Once we were packed up we headed down the trail and were able to make good headway. I had set the GPS to count down the miles-to-the-car as reference marker and watched the distance diminish quickly. Before reaching the car we stop at a swimming hole and had a brisk swim. Once back at the car we changed into our street clothes and took a final picture. We stopped in at Keene Valley for a late breakfast.

Weekend in review - part 2

On Friday morning we headed over to Jason’s place and spent much of the day framing the front window and wall. It was a fiddly task as we had to work around the heating ventilator. We built the wall on the floor and hoisted it up into position. I learned that sometimes you have to use strong tools for a simple task. The top of the wall was a tight fit with the ceiling. I thought we could use a hammer to force the wall in place. Jason retrieved a mini-sledge hammer and it took some forceful blows before the wall was flush. Once it was installed it looked great. Late in the afternoon, we headed north up to Timonium where we did some bouldering and climbing at EarthTreks. Jason convinced me to try climbing shoes and I was quickly convinced that they are an essential like you harness. I climbed my first bouldering problem which is something I want to do more of. Jason’s parents came and we spent the evening climbing. With 30 minutes to spare, we headed over to REI to get some outdoor gear. I bought another mug, a long sleeve REI jersey and an expedition-weight top. We headed to Qdoba for supper and had a filling burrito. Our next stop was back to Jason place to chill. I saw my first episode of Survivorman and enjoyed a relaxing beer. Jason uploaded ring tones to my Razr (Thanks). I was getting tired of having the Mexican national anthem as a ringtone. Jason Mraz, “Did you get my message” is the current favorite.

On Saturday we headed over to Jason’s place and hung some tracks in the bathroom. In the afternoon we headed over to the Patterson Theatre to watch some swing dance lessons. Nina is an exceptional teacher. We had pizza at Dorry and Sommers house. The evening was spent swing dancing at the Patterson Theatre with a live band (Boilermaker). I danced with a variety of people some better and worse than me.

Sunday was a more relaxing day as we got together at Claddagh for brunch. I had scrapple for the first time. It sort of looks like finely ground hamburger and has a pleasant taste. We headed over to Patterson Park for outdoor swing dancing. Jason brought along his slackline and I gave it a try. It is harder than it appears. I danced a couple of times with Sommer and she gave me some pointers for my rock step. Late in the afternoon we headed north to the Gunpowder Central trails. While hiking on the trail we were keeping our eyes peeled for poison ivy. I thought I saw a patch at one point but the stem was not thick enough. Midway along the trail found a rock overhang and Jason tried his hand to bouldering it and found that wearing his five fingers helped him get a better purchase. I changed into my five fingers and noticed how cool and light they are. We headed down to the Gunpowder River and waded into the river to see how they hold up when wet. It is liberating experience wearing them in the water. We took some pictures mid-stream. As time was running short we hiked back to the car in our five fingers. Somewhere along the trail Jason met some poison ivy which would take a couple of days to develop. Our next stop was Jason’s parents place for supper. After supper we transferred files between our laptops.

Climbing Shoes – Five Ten – Spire

Last week, I went bouldering and climbing at Earth Treks in Timonium. As we were chilling Jason talked about how good climbing feels when you have proper climbing shoes. I was skeptical but rented a pair to see what they were like. As well, climbing in sneakers is not cool!! I was quickly convinced that how could I not be climbing in climbing shoes. I had fun trying my first bouldering problem. My climbing started out rough but got better as the session progressed. It was weird that even with a lot of chalk my hands wouldn’t stop perspiring. It could be, I hadn't climbed in a while, seeing a tall climbing wall that scared me or a low energy balance. While at MEC today I bought a pair of Five Ten Spire climbing shoes. There is a climbing gym close to where I live, Vertical Reality so I’ll head over to see if I can do more bouldering.

A week in review - Orioles and Stoli Doli's

Last week I had a really great and fun week in Baltimore. On Wednesday, I flew from Ottawa to Chicago and then to Baltimore. Jason met me at the airport and dropped me back at the hotel. After a quick shower I walked into Canton to buy some sugar, fig newtons, and pretzel goldfish at Safeway. I headed over to Starbucks to grab some tea and spent the remainder of the afternoon relaxing at the Canton harbor. I met Jason at his office and saw the Apple iPhone for the first time. Next, we headed over to Camden Yards to watch the Orioles play the LA Angels. It was not a good night for the Orioles. They committed four errors in the first 30 minutes which put them at a disadvantage for the rest of the game. We had really great seats for watching the game as well as catching fly balls. Early on in the game Jason caught a ball. We snacked on goldfish and had pulled pork and really great sauerkraut. The game went to the full nine inning and the Orioles lost 18-6. The game attendance was 15,136. On the way back to the car we took some pictures 1 2 3 4.

On Thursday morning, after a quick breakfast and we headed over to Jason's new house. We spent most of the day framing the ceiling in one of the bedrooms. Jason’s mom helped us position the 2x4s. I took a picture of a sign that Jason has leading from his basement which I took note after hitting my head on the way up. I was really happy to celebrate a special day in Baltimore with Jason.

In the evening, Em, Jason and I headed to the Capital Grille to celebrate all our birthdays which are close together. I had my first Stoli Doli which I enjoyed drinking. The fruity pineapple taste prepares you for the slight burn you get from the vodka. I heeded Jason’s advice and enjoyed it over the course of the meal.

Stoli Doli

Over the next couple of days, I will experience something that I have been curious about for a little while and that is, what does a Stoli Doli's taste like. Jason talked about them in a post a little while ago and that sort of sparked my curiosity. I'll consume the Stoli Doli on a special occasion which will make it even more memorable. I'm sure that I'll post a blog describing the experience.

AP joint trip report

Day 1 Saturday August 25 2007

Left QR @1100 and stopped at Sobey's for Q-cards, bananas and pop. Bought gas at Beamsville service station. Took the ETR 407 as far as we could then forced onto Highway 401. Took 410 back to ETR and thence onward. The traffic on highway 401 was exasperating. Uneventful trip to Huntsville and stopped at McDonalds for a late lunch. Arrived at the Portage Store at 4:30pm. The forecast was 70% chance of rain and at the Portage Store it did not disappoint. The rain came down as a deluge. While picking up the permit, the old biddy said, "I guess you folks didn't pay the sunshine premium." The Portage Store has a noteworthy change, they now have an outside area for canoe rental. Also, we saw Hispanics with Maid of the Mist blue slickers. Solo paddled the canoe with Sveti back to the car. Under the special wet mist of Algonquin, we loaded the canoe and headed north. The Joe Lake portage was virtually deserted. A few people we saw looked like drowned rats. As we continued the mist turned into rain and it began penetrate past our rain gear. A decision was made to take the first available campsite on Joe Lake. This was the site that Ryan's church group had used last year and in short, it is not to be recommended. It was lacking in the most important essentials, no flat tent space and not a single tree branch on which to hoist the food pack. We arrived at the site at 6:30 pm. After the tent was up it started to rain more intensely and it started to grow dark. To boost morale we drank hot chocolate. The conditions grew worse by the minute. A number of attempts to light the fire proved futile. We hoisted one end of the canoe into a notch of a tree and ate steak sandwiches under the suspended canoe by the light of the candle lamp. Most romantic, but we were more concerned about keeping dry. CM's new stove proved its mettle. Another attempt was made to start the fire but we gave up after burning all available paper. Around 9 pm we went into the tent. To our surprise, we were not alone. There was something small running around the tent and climbing up the walls. It was only when we shone with the light of the candle that we saw that a small mouse had entered the tent. After several attempts the critter was evicted.

Day 2 Sunday August 26 2007

Up @7:15 and spent a little while packing the sleeping bags and thermarest. The rain had stopped but it was overcast. Our attempt to secure the food pack from the local furry residences was unsuccessful as the evidence was clear. A line of milk powder dripped down the trunk of the tree. Our pack had been attacked by red squirrels! It was with some relief that the rucksack was undamaged and the food loss was minimal. Once again, we lit the stove and ate hot oatmeal and tea. With an ambitious day ahead we quickly mounted the canoe and started our trek north. Before lunch we had covered two of the eight portages between Big Joe Lake and Baby Joe Lake. Burnt Island Lake was a little choppy but with a little persistence we were able to reach the north end just in time for lunch hour. For lunch we had bagels, cheese and raisins all the while looking on the shimmering waters of the lake. As we were finishing lunch a couple of university students asked to borrow our park map and to take digital pictures of the campsites on Happy Isle, Merchant and Lake Opeongo. There map had blown away. Most of the afternoon was spent in the Otterslide family of lakes and portages. We arrived at the first Big Trout Lake campsite, the Smeyers campsite, at 5:30 pm. Once again we drank hot peach-flavoured ice tea upon our arrival. DM and SR setup the tent while CM cut down a tree. For supper we ate boiled carrots and yellow beans as starters and two boxes of Kraft Macroni and cheese for the main meal. For the record Kraft dinner prepared without milk is edible and somewhat palatable. This time we made doubly sure that the pack was suspended from the trees. When the coals reduced to embers we headed into the tent.

Day 3 Monday August 27 2007

The day started an hour earlier which helped combat the threat of strong winds that might be encountered on Big Trout and White Lakes. Our day started at 6:15 am. Breakfast took the form of hot oatmeal and hot ice tea. We were on the lake by 8:00 am. The lake was graced by smoky mist that hung above a glass-like surface. We were able to cross over the two bays before starting our southerly paddle down White Trout Lake. As we were passing the "Falcon cliffs" across from the log cabin homestead an osprey fly over the canoe. Once again we had favorable winds on White Trout Lake. We stopped for a Clif Bar break at the Island campsite near the entrance to Grassy Bay. One of the interesting aspects of the Grassy Bay paddle is the meanders grow ever shorter until you reach the Hawkins portage. At which point, the route starts to become less visible and one must rely more on intuition. They have a mini-portage direction sign hammered on a tree along the route. Of note, the reedy portions of the route is becoming smaller each year. To out surprise, the "Miss Mabel" beaver dam is visibly reduced and now can be surmounted without difficulty. The McIntosh Creek portage was a hive of activity. CM quickly recognized that two guys double-portaging a mountain of high quality gear that was adorned with decals from Burton snowboards and Ron Jon's surf shop in Hawaii. The McIntosh island campsite was occupied and we opted to use the center of the three inline sites that point to the channel that leads to Ink Lake. We arrived at 12:30 pm and had a quick hot chocolate and a swim and then spent the afternoon relaxing. Of course, a oversize red pine had to be dealt with as this provided with more than enough wood for the day. As supper was constrained by the lack of powdered milk we combined the two Kraft dinners together with an added a can of Hunt's tomato sauce. That evening a beaver swam within ten meters of the shoreline.

Day 4 Tuesday August 28 2007

We were up by 6:30 am and packed and away by 8:30 am. CM took the stern of the canoe and Svety in the bow. DM decided to assume the raj position and was guided through the twisting creek that led to Ink Lake. In ways, this is the highlight of the trip as this area is a tamarack swamp and contains many species that are unique to Algonquin Park. As we were completely rested we were able to appreciate the unusual surroundings. The McIntosh portage (2320 meters) was quickly disposed of. With light packs it was more like a walk in the woods. Tom Thomson, Little Doe, Fawn, Tepee and Joe Lake were traversed against a moderate head wind. The Joe Lake portage was a hive of activity with people coming and going. One group just did not fit into the canoeing mold. They had rented a cottage at the Canoe Lake entrance and paddled in for some sightseeing. Even against a constant headwind the paddle across Canoe Lake proceeded at 5.5 km/hr. This is compared with the average in the Tom Thomson lakes of 6.5 km/hr. The trip was rounded off with a trip to the visitor's center for lunch.

As a final note: the little foot stool equipped with a carabiner was a perfect solution for seating the middle paddler. A life jacket between the points of the yoke made this position completely comfortable. The other innovation was the candle lantern which we used to cook the steaks under the canoe in the rain. The third item was the MSR isobutane lightweight stove. This allowed for hot oatmeal and tea for breakfast.

Canoeing distance:
59 km or 36.6 miles

Portaging distance:
7.5 km or 4.66 miles

Labor day weekend

My Labor day weekend was a little different this year. Normally, I would head down to my folks place or be in Algonquin Park canoeing. This year I got the canoeing done a couple of days early so I headed back to Ottawa. Scott and his family were in town for the weekend so we hooked up for our usual run. We are both training for a half-marathon but at different intensities and so we went for a 1:40 run at my race pace which left me feeling sore for a couple of days. Midway through the workout I got a wicked blister on the bottom of my foot but was able to put a layer of 3M micropore tape on it afterwards but it was painful for a couple of days. We both enjoyed the run as it gave us a chance to catch on what is happening in our various lives and with our families. Afterwards, we had a BBQ at his sister's place. Scott's sister works for the same company that I do but we work in different part of the city.

My interval workout tonight was a challenging one. It took the form of 6*1km on 30s rest. I had been chugging coffee for much of the day which left me a little dehydrated at workout time. (4.01/4.11/4.02/4.13/4.16) I was nominally pleased with the workout but wished that I had run faster but then is always the next workout on the horizon.

Five fingers and the first mile

Today, I walked my first mile outside wearing my Five Fingers "surge" sandals. It was a nice day outside so I walked over to the pool for my swim workout. I tried to spend a much time walking on the grass as possible. I know from my running that the worst surface for running on is cement and then as asphalt, which is a little better. The sandals felt light, cool and very comfortable. One thing I had to do is actively keep my toes pointing slightly upwards. Jason has been wearing them recently and was finally able to get them to work for him as they are a fun shoe to wear. The plan is to gradually increase my wear time so that I give my muscles a chance to grow and adapt.

This raises a good question, could I see myself running a 5km or 10km in my five fingers, the answer is maybe. When you run twice your body weight is placed on each foot for a moment while you go through a running stride. I've had a fair number of tibia stress fractures in my running career so a little reluctant to be risky but we will see.

Jason talked about hiking in his Five Fingers which I think would be an interesting experience as you wouldn't need to carry socks which would lighten the load. I hope that we can do something like this in the future.