Do you think I’m weird? Definitely. No man, seriously. Am I weird? Yeah, but so what? Everybody’s weird.
As humans, our most basic needs for a happy and healthy life are food, water and shelter…and a sense of belonging. It is the loyalty, companionship, support, and protection we find within a tribe that fulfills an intrinsic need within us all.
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Arriving at Second Chance Cheekye Ranch, Sarah and I toss our phones in the truck and I set off down the long dirt road to the barn. We’ve both had a rough week, and are ready to do some “meditative shit shoveling” as I call it.
Arriving at the first paddock, we are greeted by a few horses poking their heads over the fence. For having such long faces, I’m always surprised how these animals are so sweet and gentle. Being from a rescue ranch, many of these horses have experienced a variety of trauma; from neglect and abuse, to rejection for being old, lame or injured. Continue Reading…
I finally mastered the trail feature I’d been keeping my eye on for months—a steep off-camber double rock roll into a janky corner. It felt awesome! Since that success session, many of my morning laps finish on this trail because it sets up my day with confidence, focus and a shot of adrenaline!
However…just when I thought I settled into the new perfect routine, the trail changes. The rock transitions have been filled with dirt, the exit has been manicured, and everything has been mellowed out. My exciting lap has transformed into something a bit, unremarkable. Continue Reading…
Much like the tallest tree in the forest, when you stand out from the rest, you’re at risk of exposing yourself to the most resistance. We learn early in life that fitting in keeps us safe. But what we don’t realize is that while being unremarkable may keep us below the turbulence, it doesn’t allow us to grow, to reach new heights, and to see beyond our limitations; and it doesn’t usually lead to happiness or satisfaction. Continue Reading…
What happened today that you’re grateful for? Did you have a lucky break, did someone say something nice to you, did you have an awesome bike ride?
Do you own a $7,000 mountain bike, live in a beautiful pocket of the world, have a roof over your head, and friends and family who love you, but still feel discontent? That’s probably because we’ve been culturally conditioned to focus on what we don’t have, rather than appreciating we have and how far we’ve already come. Continue Reading…
We don’t solve problems—problems solve us. They help us piece together who we are, requiring us to continually stretch beyond our comfort zone and confront our psyche. Every experience and interaction has the potential to help us grow—if we allow it. Continue Reading…
Whoever said money can’t buy happiness hasn’t ridden a bike! Well, in truth, it’s not the bike making you happy, it’s the person you are when you get on your bike. Even if you drop ten thousand bucks on the sickest bike, it’s not going to make you happy sitting in your garage. For some of us, biking equals happiness because it ignites our authentic self; encourages the act of play, the freeing of our soul, happy endorphins, and healthy friendships. Continue Reading…