Here's How I'm Spending my Days.

Step Back and Try It

Kite Skiing on Rogers Lake

Took the kite and my Nordic touring skis out on Rogers Lake today. Was able to cruise for about 500 meters along the SSE side of the lake. The wind was from the West at about 15 mph with some gusts into the mid 20mph range. It was a blast skiing, but I didn't want to get too far away from Harris, my 10 year old son, who skied in support. He took the photo.

I'd like to get out more in the center of the lake with a little stronger wind. I was hoping to figure out how to ski out and then tack back. Maybe next time out. Lots of fun, and my touring skis made getting back easier than walking.

Super fun to use the wind to glide along the lake. I think of it as a real life video game balancing on legs to ski while being pulled and keeping the kite flying in the power band. Crashed once trying to tack; not very graceful trying to fly the kite and get up at the same time.

新年快樂

Best wishes for the year of the Dragon

Here's our Chinese New Year Spread. Every dish was as good as it looks.

From a French artist Shaka. Would this post be illegal under SOPA?

Overnight trip to Afton

My brother, Jared, and I decided around noon Sunday to camp-out for the night. We loaded up and headed toward Afton. Stopped at a bar to watch the Packers lose to the Giants. We weren't in Wisconsin, but you can see it across the St. Croix River in the picture below.

The River is iced up with little snow covering it.

Likewise, little snow for ground cover. Couldn't use a snow-stake or pound regular pegs in the frozen earth. Made do with a chunk of firewood.

Spent the evening sitting around the fire. Temp. in the mid 20's with a bit of a breeze.

Packed up and headed home. Not very eventful, but sure glad I got out anyway. It's good to be at a point in my gear and knowledge, where I can quickly throw my kit together and be warm and comfortable on a January, Minnesota night.

Looks Fun

Link