Spring Time on the Bike Trail

The Dardenne Greenway is beautifully situated in the neighborhoods of St. Peters and Cottleville. It is a gem of a trail system that is enjoyed by many of the residents of these communities. For the past number of years, my friends and I have enjoyed weekly outings on this trail system. 

The paved greenway is meticulously maintained and the signage makes it easy to navigate and get around. Our rides regularly take us through Rabbit Run Park, Woodlands Sport Park, and Legacy Park. Each park has a variety of recreational activities for every member of the family. (Click on the link to each park to see what they offer.)

This season, we have enjoyed an abundance of wildlife along the trail. It is not unusual to see deer, turkey, water fowl, turtles and many other backyard critters. Because most of the wildlife is accustomed to the human population and traffic on the trail, it is easy to get an up-close look at the neighboring wildlife. It is rare to be on this trail and not spot something worth seeing. 

Ducks and geese abound in the creek system and little lakes that are along the trail. We have often seen heron in the wetlands that comprise the bottom land along the greenway.

 Hawks are a familiar sight, as you ride near Mexico Road. These birds must have a nest nearby, because they regularly hang out just above the bridge on Mexico Road that crosses over the creek.

This past week, we have enjoyed watching "Tom" and his hens. We've been able to observe this courtship several days running, just south of Woodlands Sport Park. You can check out a video clip 🦃 HERE.

 Turtles abound in the creek adjacent to Rabbit Run Park. Like most of us, they have been enjoying the sunshine and warmer temperatures. Kids along the trail seem to especially enjoy these greenway residents.

 A good number of deer make this greenway their home. We have seen as many as 11 deer on one ride. On some days, they can be a little elusive, but they are usually pretty easy to spot if you proceed quietly along the trail.

As you can see, there's all kinds of "wildlife" along the Dardenne Greenway. If you need to get out and do some social distancing, this would be a great place to do it. 

Remember, wear a mask, give your neighbors on the trail plenty of distance and appreciate the beauty of God's creation!

📖

 Bless the Lord, O my soul,

and all that is within me,

bless his holy name!

Psalms 103:1 (ESV)

Best little bike I've owned.

2009 Giant Halfway

I own many bikes, but one of the best is the bike that I purchased in January of 2010. I was in the Bike Center on Manchester for service on my recumbent bike and browsed the store inventory while i waited. I spotted this little Giant Halfway folding bike. At that time, I did not own a folding bike (I have since owned three). I asked to ride it. I appreciated the compactness and simplicity of this little bike. The owner, Jim, gave me a great deal on the bike and I purchased it. I really bought it more as a novelty, since I did not have anything quite like it. Little did I know, that it would become one of the bikes that I would ride the most. Last week, I turned 6,000 miles on the Halfway. Last year alone, I put 1,900 miles on it. 

Halfway folded in car

On the beach!

It is one of my favorite commuting bikes; it is almost always in the back of my car. I have ridden it hundreds of miles in Florida and have put miles on it in every state between Missouri and Florida. I think I appreciate the bike the most in urban settings. I enjoy riding it in the Shaw area, Tower Grove Park and Forest Park. Being able to fold it away in your vehicle when you are done riding, is a real plus. 

In addition to being fun to ride, it has been one of the most maintenance-free bicycles I have ever owned. If you ever thought you were in the market for a folding bike for around town or around campus, I think you would enjoy the Giant Halfway folding bike. Jim and his staff at the Bike Center would be happy to show you the bike and give you a test ride.You can read a review of this great little bike HERE.

Pastor Bruce's "Dream" of Past Biking Adventures

Pinellas County Rails to Trails Conversion

The Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is a linear park and recreation trail used by thousands of people each month for walking, jogging, bicycling and skating. The trail was created along an abandoned railroad corridor and named in honor of Fred Marquis, who served as Pinellas County administrator during the trail's creation. The trail runs from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. It connects several county parks, coastal areas and points of interest through multiple access points along the way. (Information from the Pinellas Trail map)

You can access the website for the trail HERE

Yesterday, I took off on the bike with no particular destination in mind. After cruising the neighborhood for a mile or two, I headed West on East Bay Drive and picked up the Pinellas Trail, heading South. The trail is a well-maintained black top and winds through a shaded corridor away from the noise and traffic of the major arteries. Since I had only been on the trail a few times before, I was not sure where I needed to get off to head toward Indian Rocks Beach. After asking directions a couple of times, I found my route and headed West again.

Two of the gentlemen that helped me were Auxiliary Rangers (Volunteers) that not only gave me directions, but they also supplied me with a map of the trail and adjoining bike routes. I expressed appreciation for their work on the this trail and asked if they had ever heard of the Katy Trail in Missouri. They had -- one of the gentleman said he was going to Missouri to ride the entire trail in a few weeks. Of course I recommend he stop at Kate's Coffee in Augusta and Picasso's Coffee in St. Charles.

After getting off the trail on Ulmerton Road, I caught Walsingham Blvd. and rode West to the Gulf. I crossed the drawbridge / causeway on Indian Rocks Beach. I had to swing by our favorite eating place in Florida --- Crabby Bill's Seafood. Did not stop for breakfast today, but we did have lunch here yesterday,

A quick stop on the beach for a picture and I headed back the same way I had come. On the way back, I rode through Walsingham Park. This is just across the boulevard from the Florida Botanical Gardens. Walsingham Park is situated on 354 acres, divided by 100-acre Walsingham Lake, one-quarter mile west of the Pinellas Trail. You can check out the website for this park HERE.

This beautiful park is worth spending at least part of a day exploring. I didn't have time this morning, so I got on the Pinellas Trail again and headed North to Rosary Ave., returning to Largo. I was back by 10:00 AM and had cycled 25 miles along paved trails, beautiful parks and Indian Rocks Beach. Not a bad way to start a day!!

Thanks for taking the time to view my blog. I enjoy sharing my travels with you. 

A man who has friends must himself be friendly,

But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 18:24

Visit Hope Bible Church's Website HERE.

A Tropical Oasis - Eagle Lake Park in Largo, Florida

I've been intending to update the bicycle blog, but haven't done any unusual rides in the last few months. That has all changed since Mindy and I have made a trip to the Gulf Coast of Florida!  We've only been here a few days, but I have really enjoyed some beautiful riding. I'd like to tell you about it and show you some of the great places I've seen. 

First, I must say how much I appreciate our friends, Mike and Lynn Sauer, for putting one of their Trek bikes at my disposal. We thoroughly enjoy staying in their lovely apartment and appreciate access to the bike. It could not be more convenient-- Thanks, Mike and Lynn!

Yesterday I stayed close to the apartment and explored the Eagle Lake County Park, just a few blocks from where we are staying. 

You can check out the website HERE

Or listen to a brief AUDIO TOUR HERE:

Here is a little synopsis of the park from their website:

Great care was given to the restoration of the land’s natural habitat during the park’s development. One key feature is a wetlands section on the western side of the park which has been restored with 100 percent native plants. The park is home to fox squirrels, numerous bird species, gopher tortoises and water turtles.

The 163-acre park originally belonged to the Taylor family, one of the original pioneer families in Pinellas County. The Taylor's used the property for cattle grazing and as a citrus grove. The park comprises two parcels the county purchased in 1998 and 2006.

Although there are many amenities in the park for all kinds of family activities, the biking and walking trails are what interest me. There are miles of trails, mostly paved, as well as, some crushed gravel. A bicycle ride through the park is like an excursion in a tropical garden. The variety of exotic trees and plants is not something I'm accustomed to seeing on my rides in Missouri!  The lush vegetation is really something to enjoy.

Mindy and I walked over to the park last night with a couple of sandwiches and had a picnic supper on one of the many benches along the trails. We crossed a very busy, noisy road to enter the park; as we walked just a little way into the park, all of the noise of the traffic almost completely disappeared. It is truly a tropical oasis for exercise or relaxing, just a short distance from where we are staying. 

There are a variety of citrus trees throughout the park and at the right time of the year, oranges and grapefruit can be plucked right from the trees! 

We will see a great deal of this beautiful place while we are here. 

Day # 327 Brings My Consecutive Days of Riding Streak to an End.

All good things must come to an end  . . .
     Day # 327 (February 17th) brings my CONSECUTIVE bicycle riding streak to an end. Since April 1, 2014 I have pedaled 6,273.5 miles averaging 19.18 miles per day. Unfortunately, ice covered roads have made it to treacherous to continue. Maybe by next winter season I will acquire a fat tire bike and be able to negotiate the slippery roads a little more safely. Thanks for following along on this adventure.

February 11th update . . .
320 CONSECUTIVE days and still going.
STILL GOING - - - On February 10th I reached my 320th day of riding. I have traveled 6,181.81 miles and still averaging 19.3 miles per day. 
     The unseasonably dry weather pattern for the past month has made it possible to keep riding. We've had some very cold weather but the minimum among of snow and ice have allowed the pavement to remain clear. This is very unusual for the St. Louis area in January and February.
     Lord willing, I'll keep pedaling until inclement weather sets in. I'll keep you posted on my progress. Thanks for checking out my blog.

The End of Nine Months of Consecutive Daily Riding NOT QUITE YET
JANUARY 20TH, 2015 UPDATE
Although I had intended to quite riding everyday 10 days ago, old habits die hard. No longer worried about maintaining an average of 20 miles a day or more, I pressed on. This morning's ride to work marked my 300th consecutive riding day. Since April 1st, I have pedaled 5,822.14 miles and still maintaining an average of 19.4 miles per day.

On April 1st I started a consecutive-day riding streak with 30 Days of Biking. You can visit their web site HERE. The idea is simple --- Ride your bike every day for 30 days (1 mile or 100 miles, it doesn't matter) and you are likely to get in the habit of riding your bike regularly. It is a good plan and it does work. 

Nine Months (290 consecutive days) Later
       That was 9 months ago. I really did not have a particular goal in mind when I started. After I hit 150 consecutive days, I thought I would shoot for 182 days, which would give me six months of daily riding. Six months came and went -- I pedaled on! Each ten day mark made me want to do another ten. So, here I am at 290 consecutive days! 

3º with -16º windchill on January 8th

                                                                        5⃣7⃣4⃣0⃣
Weather and Average Miles per Day
       Early in the game, I said I would keep going until cold weather brought slick pavements or I dropped under a 20 mile per day average. It looks like I have reached both this weekend. This morning I calculated my total and average; I have traveled 5,744.19 miles since April 1st; because of the extreme cold mornings, my daily average has dropped to 19.8. With the forecast of sleet and freezing rain on Sunday, I figured this is a good place to stop. I would have liked to make 300 days, but I really did not think that was feasible this time of the year. 

The weather does not look promising for the next few days.

I don't want to end up like this guy!

This has been one of my most ambitious cycling goals. I am grateful to the Lord for the health and ability to do this. In 2014, I rode more total miles than in any previous year. The year-long stats revealed that I averaged over 16 miles a day for the past 365 days. I can live with that. I’m grateful I can ride at all. I have met many wonderful people, visited many interesting places and enjoyed many delightful hours from the seat(s) of my many bikes. I hope 2015 will be as enjoyable as the last year has been!   

A man who has friends must himself be friendly,

But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 18:24

Visit Hope Bible Church's Website HERE.

COMPLETION of My Most Ambitious Cycling Goal - 327 CONSECUTIVE Days of Riding.

All good things must come to an end  . . .
     Day # 327 (February 17th) brings my CONSECUTIVE bicycle riding streak to an end. Since April 1, 2014 I have pedaled 6,273.5 miles averaging 19.18 miles per day. Unfortunately, ice covered roads have made it to treacherous to continue. Maybe by next winter season I will acquire a fat tire bike and be able to negotiate the slippery roads a little more safely. Thanks for following along on this adventure.

February 11th update . . .
320 CONSECUTIVE days and still going.
STILL GOING - - - On February 10th I reached my 320th day of riding. I have traveled 6,181.81 miles and still averaging 19.3 miles per day. 
     The unseasonably dry weather pattern for the past month has made it possible to keep riding. We've had some very cold weather but the minimum among of snow and ice have allowed the pavement to remain clear. This is very unusual for the St. Louis area in January and February.
     Lord willing, I'll keep pedaling until inclement weather sets in. I'll keep you posted on my progress. Thanks for checking out my blog.

The End of Nine Months of Consecutive Daily Riding NOT QUITE YET
JANUARY 20TH, 2015 UPDATE
Although I had intended to quite riding everyday 10 days ago, old habits die hard. No longer worried about maintaining an average of 20 miles a day or more, I pressed on. This morning's ride to work marked my 300th consecutive riding day. Since April 1st, I have pedaled 5,822.14 miles and still maintaining an average of 19.4 miles per day.

On April 1st I started a consecutive-day riding streak with 30 Days of Biking. You can visit their web site HERE. The idea is simple --- Ride your bike every day for 30 days (1 mile or 100 miles, it doesn't matter) and you are likely to get in the habit of riding your bike regularly. It is a good plan and it does work. 

Nine Months (290 consecutive days) Later
       That was 9 months ago. I really did not have a particular goal in mind when I started. After I hit 150 consecutive days, I thought I would shoot for 182 days, which would give me six months of daily riding. Six months came and went -- I pedaled on! Each ten day mark made me want to do another ten. So, here I am at 290 consecutive days! 

3º with -16º windchill on January 8th

                                                                        5⃣7⃣4⃣0⃣
Weather and Average Miles per Day
       Early in the game, I said I would keep going until cold weather brought slick pavements or I dropped under a 20 mile per day average. It looks like I have reached both this weekend. This morning I calculated my total and average; I have traveled 5,744.19 miles since April 1st; because of the extreme cold mornings, my daily average has dropped to 19.8. With the forecast of sleet and freezing rain on Sunday, I figured this is a good place to stop. I would have liked to make 300 days, but I really did not think that was feasible this time of the year. 

The weather does not look promising for the next few days.

I don't want to end up like this guy!

This has been one of my most ambitious cycling goals. I am grateful to the Lord for the health and ability to do this. In 2014, I rode more total miles than in any previous year. The year-long stats revealed that I averaged over 16 miles a day for the past 365 days. I can live with that. I’m grateful I can ride at all. I have met many wonderful people, visited many interesting places and enjoyed many delightful hours from the seat(s) of my many bikes. I hope 2015 will be as enjoyable as the last year has been!   

A man who has friends must himself be friendly,

But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 18:24

Visit Hope Bible Church's Website HERE.

Commuting by Gondolier

Bakfiets or Cargo Bikes

The English term cargo bike has a strong and obvious connection to freight. However, the Dutch word, bakfiets is more neutral and literally means ‘box bike’. That makes it perfectly normal for the Dutch to transport not only cargo in these box bikes, but also their children. A number of years ago, I saw a picture of a “box bike” and have always been fascinated with them. 

Since the first time I saw this picture, I was intrigued with the bakfiets.

Up until a few years ago, they were difficult to acquire in the United States; if you were able to secure one, they were quite expensive. Although on my wish list, I didn’t seriously entertain the idea of buying one. 

About a month ago, I came across a bicycle company in San Diego that manufactures and distributes a number of box bikes. The company is Virtue Bikes. You can see their website HERE.

The line at the top of their page says it all for me —
It’s not sport, it’s not hobby, nor is it recreational. It’s lifestyle.

Virtue offers several different models of box bikes. (Do visit their website and see them all) I was especially interested in the model they call the Gondolier +. It appeared to be just the kind of box bike that I was looking for and seemed to be within my budget. I placed an order for the bike through Ye Old Bicycle Shoppe in San Diego. You can visit their website HERE.

Although I had never ordered from them before, my order helped me start an acquaintance with this shop. Their staff has proven to be everything you would hope for in an online buying experience. They processed my original order promptly and shipped the bike out very quickly. Because the bike required specialized assembly and set up, I had it sent to the Trek Store St. Louis for assembly and adjustment. You can see their website HERE. I might say that customer service at this Trek store is exceptional. George, John, Gary and Justin handled the setup competently and professionally. If you are looking for a local bike shop in the St. Louis area, I can highly recommend these folks. 

Parking outside the front door at work. 

Gondolier looks big next to my '69 VW Bug! 

Bakfiet Debacle or Cargo Bike Collision

Throughly pleased with my new box bike, I was commuting back and forth to work, congratulating myself on the purchase I had made. I had been so pleased with the purchase and setup, that I called both the bike shop in San Diego and the Trek Store, thanking them for their help in the buying process.

Although I have ridden thousands of miles each year for the past ten years, I have been fortunate never to have had a collision with a vehicle. That all changed a few days before Christmas. On the way home from work one afternoon, I had a collision with a vehicle at a four-way stop less than a mile from my house. Thank the Lord, although I was knocked off the bike, I was not seriously hurt. Unfortunately, I could not say the same for my new bike. Initially, it did not appear that the damage was great, however, further investigation revealed the damage was quite extensive. I decided to replace the bike with another one just like it. 

Large, stable kickstand makes it easy to park and secure with lock. 

Revisiting Ye Old Bicycle Shoppe 

After ordering replacement parts for my original bike and getting what I needed to put it back together, I told James at the Ye Olde Bicycle Shop that I wanted to order another bike. He had been so helpful in getting the necessary parts sent out on the first bike. He contacted Virtue and really went to bat for me to secure a new bike at a very reasonable price. He gave me several possibilities for a replacement and showed me all the options and corresponding cost. In the end, he sent out a newer model Gondolier + that is now on the way to the Trek Store for assembly. 

I really appreciate all the help I received from James and Jennifer in San Diego in getting these bikes and parts to me. Their competent, courteous, customer service is exceptional. Although I’m hoping I will not need to order another bike from them anytime soon, if you are in the market for a box bike or anything else they carry, I highly recommend you give them a call!

Awaiting the assembly of the 2015 Virtue Gondolier +

Thanks for taking the time to view my blog. I enjoy sharing my travels and travails with you!   By the way, if you know anyone who might be interested in a non-electric assist box bike, have them contact me….. I will make them a VERY good deal! :-)   I must make room in my garage!

A man who has friends must himself be friendly,

But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 18:24

Visit Hope Bible Church's Website HERE.

The Katy Trail, Kondike Park and Kates Coffee House

Beautiful Fall Day

This morning as Mindy and I were discussing the forecast for the remainder of the week, I realized that this might be one of the last nice days to view the magnificent changing of the leaves in our area. We had already made arrangements to have lunch with our friends, Dave and Sherry in Augusta, so I thought I'd take that opportunity to ride there via the Katy Trail. I started out a little earlier and rode to Augusta from the access to the Katy Trail at Research Park Greenway. This a relatively new addition to the Greenway that I have recently discovered. It is still a work in progress; even more blacktop trails, parking lots, signage, and interpretive areas have been added recently. I really appreciate the investment that is being made in order to make these beautiful out-of-the-way places more accessible to pedestrian and bicycle traffic. You can learn more about this Greenway HERE.

Even as I left my house, I got a preview of some of the incredible colors I would see along the way. This beautiful tree is across the street from our house and it was glowing as the morning sun shone on it.

On the Katy Trail

Since I had plenty of time this morning, I rode at a little more leisurely pace and planned to stop quite a bit to take pictures. This old railroad bridge crosses the Femme Osage Creek along the Katy Trail. It is located near Defiance, MO. There is a historical marker located very near this bridge.

The rich agricultural history of the area is clearly seen, as one passes through the Missouri River bottom on the Katy Trail. This beautiful site brings mixed emotions. Once this was a thriving farm operation and home to a family that made their livelihood farming this fertile land. Today, it appears that it is nearly abandoned. A few years ago, some folks opened a business here to cater to the trail traffic. I stopped here several times, hoping they would be able to make a go of their business. Apparently, there was not enough traffic from those who rode or walked the trail to keep it going.  Sadly, it closed after a short time. I can't help but wonder about the stories that these buildings could tell. Even empty and in disrepair, they are beautiful to see as one passes by. 

Lewis and Clark in Missouri
The Katy Trail closely follows the route of the Corp of Discovery in Missouri. Led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, the Corp of Discovery departed from Wood River, Illinois on May 14, 1804. After making final provisions and arrangements in St. Charles, Missouri, they made their historic trek West. The expedition sighted the Pacific Ocean on November 7, 1805 and arrived on its shore two weeks later.

Signs such as this one give much information about Lewis and Clark's experiences in Missouri

There is much to learn about Lewis and Clark and the Corp of Discovery along the Katy Trail. If you plan to ride the entire trail, or study the Lewis and Clark Expedition, I would highly recommend that you secure a copy of Lewis and Clark in Missouri by Ann Rogers. You can purchase a copy on Amazon HERE. 

Klondike Park and Boat Ramp

At Katy Trail Mile Marker 64, you will find access to Klondike Park. It was once a silica sand quarry. The natural resources taken from this quarry were used to make glass products. The quarry reached the peak of its production in 1945 when a reported 233,000 tons of sand were exported to support the war effort. The quarry ceased its production in 1983. 

Now restored to its natural state, it has become a very popular destination for outdoor activities. Campers, hikers, cyclists and scout groups enjoy the park's natural beauty. It is the perfect getaway destination that is not far away. If you plan to camp on the weekend, you may want to consider a reservation. You can make a reservation online HERE.

Entrance to boat ramp off Highway 94

Labadie Power Plant across the Missouri River from Klondike Park

Beautiful lake in Klondike Park. No, it isn't snow. It is silica sand!

If you are willing to climb the bluff into Klondike Park, there is much to enjoy. Miles of hiking trails weave through the park. Trails lead to the highest parts of the park and offer some fantastic views of the surrounding area. There are different amenities for camping and picnicking. The link above will give you all the information you need to plan and enjoy your visit to Klondike Park. 

Kate's Coffee House

First, I want to give you the website of this charming place located in Augusta, Missouri. You will want to visit their website HERE.

You can like the on FaceBook HERE.

Randal Oaks and his wife Marj opened this great little place in February of this year. Mindy and I learned of it only a couple of months ago. Since then, we have visited numerous times! I've attached a few pictures below that only hint at the beauty and charm of this delightful place. It is a coffee shop which is open for breakfast and lunch. Though their menu is not extensive, the unique items they offer are skillfully prepared and are simply delicious. We have made it our goal to sample every single item on the menu and we are making good progress. We have throughly enjoyed everything we have ordered either for breakfast or lunch. 

In addition to the pleasant surroundings and delicious food, we've come to appreciate and enjoy the company of the fine folks who operate Kate's Coffee. They are anxious to welcome you, explain their menu and help you enjoy your time with them. You will leave not feeling like a customer, but rather having enjoyed your time with some friends. I guarantee you will enjoy the food and folks at Kate's Coffee. Please do tell them that Bruce and Mindy sent you!

Front view of Kate's Coffee House

Beautiful and inviting entrance to this charming place.

On a nice day, there is plenty of room to enjoy your coffee or meal outside.

Easy access on the bike after you climb the hill from the Katy Trail. 

You'll enjoy the area surrounding the cafe.

Robin and Randall

Katy

If the pulled pork sandwich is on the menu ORDER IT!

Buffalo Chicken Wrap, Ham Croissant with Mushroom Brie Soup

Sausage Biscuit (with egg) and Breakfast Wrap

Pulled Pork on Pretzel Bun with Potato Salad

Be sure and ask Randall about this classic car! 

The sign in Kate's Coffee says it all. You will enjoy your time with the friends you meet here.

A parting shot as we left Augusta heading back to the trail.

This day's excursion on the bike was only 32 miles, but I feel like I covered more than miles. In many ways, the bike often reminds me of a time machine that takes you back through some of the most interesting history of our area. You will see and experience things via a bike that you would not even notice as you travel by car. As much as the wonderful things I see on the bike, I truly enjoy the places I visit and the friends I meet along the way.

Thanks for taking the time to view my blog. I enjoy sharing my travels with you. 

A man who has friends must himself be friendly,

But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 18:24

Visit Hope Bible Church's Website HERE.