October 2-7, 2023
I arrived at Boulder County Fairgrounds Campground, in Longmont, on Monday, and I stayed there four nights. From there I went to Sue & Jim’s house west of Boulder for two nights.
While in Longmont, much of my time was spent organizing things for the new van, but I did mange to do three bike rides. I opted for a little less traffic than I had experienced in October 2022 by utilizing back roads through the flat lands to make my way to Lefthand Canyon. On Tuesday I did 15 miles in very windy conditions with cloud cover dominant. It was one of those “have to get some exercise” rides, and I am glad I did it, because it felt great. On Wednesday and Thursday I did longer rides, 47 miles and 35 miles respectively, partly on back roads and partly on US36 to get to Lefthand. I rode up the canyon about 5 miles each day. The views were great, and it was interesting to see the farmland and other interesting things, such as Halloween decorations and a piano store with the name “Pianos For Humanity.” Basically, these rides were just fun, exhilarating, and good for the body, mind, and spirit.
Two other phenomena that I leaned about while here: Longmont Humane Society is next to the Fairgrounds. I spoke with a woman out walking a dog about it. Layla was her name, and she works at the shelter. They have 200 dogs and 300 cats! We spoke about the logistics of exercising and feeding so many pets! It is really amazing how they can accommodate so many, and they do it with the help of many volunteers. We had an enlightening talk. I also attended my first Barrel Racing event. I was amazed at the acceleration, speed, and agility of the horses, as well as the ability of the women to guide them.
I did another ride at Sue & Jim’s, going up on the dirt road section of Sugarloaf Road to Peak-to-Peak Highway. That is a higher altitude road, with a range of about 7700’ to about 9200’. One has a view of high mountains from a fairly close distance. It was beautiful weather and an inspirational ride.
They had company come over for dinner on Saturday night, Eric & Dawn, who live right up the road from them. I had met them at another dinner, at Nina and Aaron’s house, also up the road walking distance, back in August when I was out there with my Honda.
While in Boulder, I also was able to spend some time with Liz Rucker on Monday and with Denise & Dave Gall on Friday. It is good to stay in touch!
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