Doug Robertson’s Photo Contest Entry
In 2001 I did a 6 month, 2,100 mile long backpacking trip. After returning from the trip, I never went back to riding in cars. I felt a need to be working my body, breathing in the air and intensely experiencing the world and weather around me everyday. In 2002, I sold my truck I no longer used. I’ve been bicycling for transportation since. I’ve biked in temperatures from 28 below to 104 degrees, and everything in between. I feel alive when I ride. I see stuff, like the fall colors in the rain, that I would have missed if I didn’t ride. That’s why I ride.
Doug Robertson/Duluth, MN
http://www.mnbicyclecommuter.blogspot.com
[Entry #14]
7 Responses to “Doug Robertson’s Photo Contest Entry”
Thats a real good point. I didn’t realize I felt that way until you said it. I was listening to some friends complain about the weather, but I thought they didn’t know about the weather, spending every day in their house, in their office, in their car. They should have asked a construction worker, or a mailman, or a bicyclist what the weather was like. Just by riding to work I see 90 minutes of weather up close and personal every day. Driving to work is like being indoors but riding to work is being outside.
Do you know “The Way West”? Its a Pulitzer Prize winning novel in a series about pioneer days. A couple of the main characters are mountain men who become so accustomed to living outdoors that they don’t like to come inside any more. Sort of like you after that trip.
Great picture Doug, I actually recognized your bike right away before seeing your name!
@Nick
My wife and I did that trip together. We had a hard time readjusting after coming back. I think we slept with the windows for the first three months (Oct-Dec). The air inside was so stagnate. And the walls and ceiling felt like they were closing in on us.
Great picture Doug! Fall is my favorite time of year.
I totally agree that riding is nice way to get a little extra time outside. I work in the office environment and it is really nice to start the day out with some exercise and fresh air. On the way home I usually take the long trail home on my mountain bike for some additional exercise and outdoor enjoyment. It’s a great way to unwind from a hard day!
Great picture. Makes me homesick for the east coast and foliage.
Beautiful picture.
Amazing! Love the words too.