Thursday, May 5, 2011

Where do blogs come from?

Since moving to the Bay Area, void of car, I've taken to biking nearly everywhere. It doesn't hurt that inclement weather is minimal and the generally cool conditions keep you comfortable when you're riding. But coming from Chicago, and already being an avid biker, there is one thing I was unprepared for: Hills.

Mind you, when I say Hills (see that capital?), I really mean small mountains. San Francisco has 47 hills over its 46.7 square miles. 7 of these are said to be the "Seven Hills of San Francisco," a claim in reference to Rome, the "City of Seven Hills." This claim is not exclusive of San Francisco and Rome, 49 other cities have claimed to be built upon seven hills, including San Diego and Seattle.

Outside my window, just a mile away, sits Bernal Heights. At 443 ft, it stands at a median point of all of 47, but is a challenge nonetheless. After accomplishing a bike ride to its summit earlier this week, I decided I was ready for something a little harder.

Twin Peaks is the second highest "hill" in San Francisco, behind Mt. Davidson. At 910 ft, it may sound like a casual jaunt, but to make matters more interesting; I was working with a second hand 29er mountain bike, 4 miles of road between me and it, and 1 hour in which to complete the ride (before returning to work).

Suffice it to say, I completed the ride, but have been useless ever since I got home. And that's how blogs are made.

View from Twin Peaks

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Back Again - This Time From Oakland

So, it's been another year without posting. And since then, Sonia and I have set out on yet another adventure and have moved just outside San Francisco to start the next chapter in our lives.

In moving, this blog gains new importance as I can keep all my new experiences current with all those wondering how things are out West.

Hopefully we don't disappoint.

DM