Kirk (Logan) Johnson's Blog

Health Update: Day 23

2012-01-13T07:57:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I took measurements and photos. I published it, but then was too afraid of how awful they looked...I just can't stomach (sorry about the word choice) the way my "before" pictures look. I feel like I need some progress pictures or "after" pictures before I can publish the starting point.

So having recently completed 3 weeks of my new routine (weight lifting alternated with days of cardio), I am finally able to see 2 pounds dropped ... 216 to 214. According to my goals I can reach 172 by middle June if I lose approximately 2 pounds of fat per week. Because I will be expanding muscle also, the next fat loss will be higher than the overall pounds lost.

I'm visiting the YMCA for some of my workouts but most of them are on the driveway doing jump rope (20 minutes of jump rope per session) or weights with the adjustable dumbbells -- those are great, by the way. Finally that old weight bench is getting regular use!

Alex -- Fall 2011

2011-11-13T07:09:00.000-08:00

Eau Claire Sept 11 2011

2011-09-12T18:33:00.001-07:00

Random Pics Mix -- Highlights This Year

2011-08-05T10:59:00.000-07:00

Alex's garden pictures

2011-06-14T05:24:00.001-07:00

Garden Gnome

2011-06-05T21:54:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year

2010-12-29T21:36:00.000-08:00

Highlights of the year (click photo for larger image):

Lisa: Teaching 50% time for elementary kids at Eagle Ridge Academy, biking to work in good weather.

Kirk: Finished landscape project with Edelweiss Designs, did the MS 150 with the boys, 3rd year at Capella as a senior project manager.

Alex: Diving team, 9th grade, doing great in science and engineering.

Artem: Diving team, 8th grade, cross country team, doing great in school this fall!

Aliya: Flute, Dance Exchange, 7th grade, new babysitting jobs, fantastic student.

As a family, we enjoyed time with relatives in Beaver Island (Lisa's side) in the summer, and we were part of Julie and Nick's wedding in October, including Grandpa Johnson. We finished our home office project this year. We found our treasured adoption scrap book. In 2011 we hope that Lisa's hip and foot issues will clear up.

We sincerely wish peace, happiness and health to everyone. Blessings to you! The Johnsons wish you a very happy new year in 2011.

2009 New York

2010-12-29T20:07:00.001-08:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Photo Book for Artem

2010-12-27T20:16:00.001-08:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Jeff Larsen Show Edina Gallery

2010-11-12T17:48:00.001-08:00

Click image below to see the whole album. Wonderful!

2010 Jeff Larsen Favorites Edina Gallery

Facebook

2010-10-31T06:03:00.001-07:00

I've been posting info each week on Facebook for about a year. Address there is:

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/kirklogan

2010 Landscaping

2010-09-17T09:59:00.000-07:00

Edelweiss Designs, Inc.

View all

Get your own

Source:
http://picasaweb.google.com/kirkjohnsonster/Landscape2010#

Landscape Plan

2010-08-25T22:12:00.001-07:00

Edelweiss Designs, Inc. Edina 55410.

Landscape Ideas

2010-08-16T09:39:00.001-07:00

Click image to see larger version.

Basement Office Notes

2010-06-29T15:25:00.001-07:00

----
Progress photo, August 20 2010:

Progress:

Before:

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To remove/demolish: We will not want the remaining white shelves in the 4-foot area on the west wall ... those need to be removed along with the semi-built-in cabinet of shelves in the southeast corner. Probably you would like to get a dumpster bag for these parts and I can pay for that too.

Protect carpeting; Something for your equipment list -- please put down sheets, canvas, or some kind of material connecting from the garage service door all the way to the opening of the office to help protect the carpet. Thank you!

Electrcial plan: http://kirk-johnson.blogspot.com/2010/06/basement-office-notes.html. This is the best I could do without having actual electrical knowledge. I want to be sure that we use the newer squarish white outlets and outlet covers, not the older ivory roundy ones. I think that if we need more plug-ins than shown, we can just use some power strips under the counter. If you think we should be having another outlet added go ahead. I don't want any above-counter electrical boxes (except if you want to leave the one where it is 3/4 up the wall near the laundry area, that is OK) because we can drill some grommets on the counters and use the grommet cover that you may have seen where a circular slide can cover to make a surface nearly flush with the countertop or slide open to give an opening for cords. This is a detail that can be done last, near the end of the project. So, all outlets/ether&cable can be positioned under the counter height which can be the standard height above the ground.

Right angle :The southeast corner of the desk was drawn as either a right angle or a angled corner -- I think a basic right angle is best. So, regular corner for there.

Finished height of the desktops (top of surface to bottom of supports) should be designed for 28.5 inches. I don't know how these will be built, but I would like them to be custom-cut to fit in the spaces end-to-end with no or little gaps at the ends by the walls. As best as possible, I'd like them to appear as one long continuous surface, making the L-shaped counter on the east and south walls plus the smaller individual area that is about 4' on the west wall. They should rest all the way to the back of the wall so that they are flush with the back of the counter top where it meets the wall. However I have no desire for them to be secured to the wall. If they are resting on the supports by gravity, then it would seem easier to be able to raise a section if needed some day (but not planning on it for now) and we could move them out for re-painting or other purposes some day.

Depth: How deep (distance from the wall to the front of the desk edge where a person sits) do the countertops go? 29" is noted for along the east wall, and 24" on the south wall (smaller to give room to walk in from the door opening). If these measurements are not helpful for the size of maple wood you get let me know and I can look at other options. The countertop depth for the west wall small desk area can be up to 29" deep. As noted above, finished height on the desks should be 28.5 inches.

Insulation: Regarding finishing the walls to add the electrical and drywall, whatever is best to avoid danger of mold and maximizing heat efficiency. I think you advised against insulation in the ceiling, but if you think it will be worth the labor and material cost let's insulate there too for noise reduction but if it's really not going to make much of a difference than let's skip it.

Carpeting: After the new wall is built next to the sink, I can call home depot to make the carpeting measurement appointment. I'll be extending the existing carpeting into the room. I'm having Home Depot do this .

Above counter shelves and shelves to the right and left of entry doors: I am pretty sure you did not estimate any of this work, but if you did, let's talk about those later!

House Ideas

2010-06-26T09:21:00.001-07:00

Updated December 2010: Briscoe Plans (click to enlage):

---
Items below are original concepts.

Provided by Bill Michels, architect.

2010 Bike to Work Day Edina

2010-06-10T06:38:00.000-07:00

It was another fun year for the Bike to Work event! Today also marks the opening of the NiceRide bike share program (visit NiceRideMN.org for more info).

Here is a link to our photos and a short movie.

Congratulations J.B. for your first work commute to downtown! Thanks everyone for a fun trip. See you next year.

Basement Before and After

2010-04-03T08:20:00.001-07:00

Some before and after pics...

Plus some additional images.

In Memory: Dwaine R. Lindberg

2010-03-07T04:47:00.001-08:00

Common words and phrases used to describe Dwaine included persistent, caring, thoughtful. Dwaine contributed a great deal to society with efforts related to his political beliefs and love of bicycling -- he served 4 years on the Bike Edina Task Force. I was impressed by the rich history shared by many people that were touched significantly by Dwaine. Yesterday was Dwaine's service at the Minnesota Cremation Society.

You can view more on his obituary. Photo by Carl Follstad, Bike Edina Task Force.

Thoughts I shared at Dwaine's memorial service: Dwaine Lindberg contributed to his community in meaningful ways. He has been an inspiration both to me and my children. As a father of 3 kids aged 11 to 14, I often remind them that they are our future leaders for society. When I say this, Dwaine often comes to mind.

Dwaine was diligent and thoughtful for the things he cared about. Many people here have known Dwaine for a lifetime, and although perhaps I've known Dwaine relatively shorter than most, I can say for sure that his positive influence on my is still remarkable.

Dwaine and I have served on the Bike Edina Task Force for the past few years. The Bike Edina Task Force has 15 members. We partner with residents, City management, and City elected officials to promote the bicycle as a safe and good choice for both transportation and recreational use in Edina. Dwaine was a big help in putting together our first City of Edina Comprehensive Transportation Plan, and he has been a key advocate and user of the new Promenade biking and walking project. Dwaine was an active participant at our monthly meetings and he was diligent and thorough with his follow-up tasks.

I appreciate how Dwaine offered his talents to a number of causes. The example he offered with the Bike Edina Task Force is just one slice of the pie where Dwaine contributed positively. Not only did he improve Edina for his generation, he helped set the foundation to make many more improvements that generations to come will enjoy. On behalf of the Bike Edina Task Force, we express our appreciation to Dwaine.

To show appreciation for what Dwaine has done, at a recent joint workshop with the Bike Edina Task Force and City leadership and elected officials, a councilmember advocated the idea of the City installing a city recognition of some type associated with bicycling in Edina. We think that is a great idea and I look forward to supporting the completion of memorial.

Christmas Eve Surley Hauling Trailer and Family

2009-12-24T21:00:00.000-08:00

Photo compliments Dr. Wels

2009-12-08T04:26:00.000-08:00

Dad's visit: http://picasaweb.google.com/kirkjohnsonster/DadS2009DecemberVisit#

Johnsons Hanging Out

2009-10-31T20:22:00.001-07:00

Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T20:09:00.000-07:00

Old Time Lunch

2009-10-30T05:32:00.001-07:00

For fun I packed a lunch containing old-time favorites for a few co-workers that also had the same memories...

If it ain't fixed, it is broken

2009-10-03T16:03:00.000-07:00

Great ESPN article

Grateful Ted Party

2009-08-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

A friend got a new job. And celebrated "Grateful Ted" style. Fun party!

New Light

2009-08-24T13:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the tip, Mike M.

Basement Vacation Week

2009-08-23T10:59:00.000-07:00

Here are highlights from my vacation week :-)

Photo source link if slideshow below doesn't appear: http://picasaweb.google.com/kirkjohnsonster/August2009VacationWeek

Replace a Car with a Big Dummy?

2009-08-09T12:14:00.000-07:00

Yes. It can be done. I received this question from the west coast:

"Kirk, greetings from Bainbridge Island, WA. I'm thinking of investing in the Surly Big Dummy to fulfill my experiment of not driving for one year. Any advice you would give to someone starting to spec out components?

I've got two kids to haul (age 6 and 2) + in-town runs to the grocery, hardware store, and book store."

My advice would be:

1. Invest in a pair of Footsies (shown) from Xtracycle for your older child or any passenger
2. Add a handlebar on the seat post (not shown) so that your passenger can hang on
3. Include a passenger trailer (such as a Burley) for your 2 year old
4. Of course, the standard Xtracycle bags and snap deck (shown in the picture) are ideal.
5. Be sure to be visible -- I use a variety of lighting, reflective vest, etc. and even a Down Low Glow light which is beautiful and functional.
6. Consider a trailer and trailer hitch from Bikes at Work (here are pictures of our big trailer from last year. I collaborated with them on a project to develop the first Big Dummy-specific hitch, and I now have a long trailer bed that supports 300 pounds -- some pictures of using that hauling mulch.
7. Have a good gear ratio that goes to a faster spin for going up steep hills -- you will appreciate that when fully loaded.
8. My setup includes disk brakes which I love -- great all year around and even when icy or wet.
9. The other accessory that I like is the "TrayBien" which is also shown as I hauled my Surly Steamroller to downtown Minneapolis for a software vendor to ride with me (he was visiting from North Carolina).

Think it is expensive? Far less, compared to the ownership costs of an average car, which in most studies (one from AAA linked here) exceeds $7,000 PER YEAR. And that is not considering the environmental cost to manufacture the car, ship it, and all the emissions that will be spewed, the demand for gas/oil and the political and social impacts from all that...

The whole Big Dummy with extras can be $3000, and in my case much less because I purchased many used parts. One on One Bicycle Studio in Minneapolis put together the majority of my rig and they did an great job.

I'm going on 3 years without a car and 16 months with a Big Dummy. I can easily say that the Big Dummy, a REAL sports utility vehicle, is an excellent substitute for a car. Pictured with this blog is a photo from my sister of Alex and me after a ride to downtown Minneapolis. I like the image because it is about the family, not so much about the bike. The bike is part of our lifestyle, but it is just a tool. We've used the Big Dummy to haul, play polo, go camping, go to coffee/restaurants, and just go out on a cool summer evening ride. I've had up to 7 people on the bike with the various trailers and can say that it has been a huge benefit to our family.

So, S.J. and anyone thinking of going this route, I can't offer enough encouragement or support. Contact me if you have more questions or if you can at least let me know how it is going after a while. I predict you'll want to continue the "experiment" for more than a year.

NYC Favorites (So far...)

2009-06-19T12:03:00.000-07:00

Mat

2009-06-16T19:30:00.000-07:00

Alex and I met Mat tonight after Alex's lesson at MacPhail. Visit BicycleLaneIndustries.com for more info. We loved the bike and were hoping we'd meet its owner. Turns out he is also the creator. I'm inspired.

Capella Cruisers

2009-06-15T03:23:00.001-07:00

Alex the Diver

2009-06-11T16:37:00.000-07:00

Bike Mosaics

2009-06-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

These are nearly-complete mosaics that are ready for finishing and installing. Ideas include working with consulting from Mosaic-on-a-Stick, the Edina Art Center, the Bike Edina Task Force, and the City of Edina to complete and install these, perhaps in the Promenade area and other places in Edina where residents can enjoy these.

The mosaic project was started with the Community Design Group while beginning work with residents at open houses/public gatherings at events at City Hall and at the 2007 Bike Rodeo sponsored by Catherine Elliot for her Girls Scouts Gold Award project.

There are approximately 6 - 10 mosaics ready for finishing.

Aliya Graduation 2009

2009-06-05T18:08:00.000-07:00

Click to see larger images.

Edina to Greenway May 2009

2009-05-30T13:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Marsha B. from Edina Community Ed, Hiawatha Bicycle Club, Bike Edina Task Force, and all the 17 riders...we enjoyed a great trip from Edina City Hall to the Midtown Greenway. This is a trip we may like to repeat at least yearly.

My favorite part of the event was hearing comments from some riders that live in Edina yet had never found a good route to get out to the Greenway, which is nicely accessible and not too far from Edina.

Don's Party

2009-05-29T10:39:00.000-07:00

I wish I had my better camera and that I took better pictures. But here is what was available! Fun party even though I lost at foosball and got partway through the table tennis tounament, losing to Don 23-25 or something like that. Close game! Alex enjoyed Bourne Identity and all the great food.

Riding with Scott

2009-05-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics of our after-work adventure.

May 30th Community Ride -- Join Us

2009-05-18T04:34:00.000-07:00

Bike Parade Pics

2009-05-17T11:11:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Edina Morningside Rotary and dozens of partnering organizations! Photos compliments Bike Edina Task Force.

Bike to Work Day 2009

2009-05-14T06:25:00.001-07:00

Visit my previous post for the map, setup, etc. Here are our pics :) It was a great ride!

Boulevard Plantings

2009-05-04T14:05:00.000-07:00

Good idea for areas that get too much salt/sand in the winter.

My Little Dummy

2009-05-04T14:02:00.001-07:00

Look closely -- that David in the bag. He hitched a ride home after getting a haircut at 50th & France.

First Braces

2009-04-30T16:34:00.001-07:00

Timeline

2009-04-27T05:40:00.001-07:00

Another Basement Idea

2009-04-20T09:24:00.000-07:00

Concept for architect Bill Michels

May 14th Bike to Work Day

2009-04-05T21:29:00.000-07:00

Join me and the group -- first time bike commuters ESPECIALLY welcome!

So far: Bob A., Amy C., Ted D., Todd B., Kirk J., Troy J. Maybe: Marty M. Others? You're invited!

Meet: 6:30 a.m. in parking lot across from Starbuck's (also by Breadsmith and Lund's) near 50th & France in Edina. We'll leave by 6:45 a.m. sharp, but please don't plan to show up exactly at that time!

Ride: The route mapped below, ideal for new riders (low traffic)

Pace: We'll take a medium pace, which is an average of 12-14 mph. We can adjust according to the group's needs, but I'll stay with the slowest person. This is not a race, obviously, so we'll take it easy.

Duration: The ride should take about 35 - 45 minutes.

Destination: Government Center in downtown Minneapolis.

Questions? Contact Kirk Johnson, ride leader. Kirk.Johnson@LoganLogic.com or 612-916-9966.

Time Summary:
Meet at Starbucks (50th & France) – 6:30AM
Depart Starbucks – 6:45AM
Arrive Calhoun Village – 7:05AM (brief break, others may join us)
Depart Calhoun Village – 7:10AM
Arrive Government Center – 7:30AM - 7:40AM

Edina 50th and France to Minneapolis Government Center
Find more Bike Rides in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Pose Challenged

2009-04-05T20:46:00.001-07:00

No prob!

Florida Vacation 2009

2009-04-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

Click the slideshow for source options.

Alex Birthday 14 Years Old

2009-04-05T20:01:00.000-07:00

Alex enjoyed his cards from his family, aunties/uncles, and grandparents. He received a fishing vest and hat from G&G Rich, a nice card and cash from G Johnson, a weekend trip to NYC in June during the Bicycle Film Festival with dad, a date to go bike shopping (not buying yet), a 3D globe puzzle (which he finished in one night), a 3D Empire State building model, and dinner at Big Bowl with the family & MW.

Such fun! Alex has had a good year at school and recently completed a whole season as a new guy on the diving team.

Poster Framing

2009-03-25T04:29:00.001-07:00

Hoping to get this numbered print framed this year...

Some Winter & Ski Pics

2009-03-21T14:11:00.000-07:00

Davey

2009-03-07T14:02:00.000-08:00

Fireplace Before and After

2009-03-07T12:08:00.000-08:00

Check out GN Wooodcrafters. I highly recommend this woodworking company. Greg was prompt with all his services, created the new fireplace mantel according to specs, and produced high-quality results. You can contact Greg via the website above.

(Click images to see larger version.)

Designs So Far

2009-03-02T13:01:00.001-08:00

Parking & Bike Lane Discussion for West 70th Street

2009-03-02T09:21:00.000-08:00

The main article I wrote is here:

http://tcstreetsforpeople.org/node/675

Basement Remodel Ideas

2009-02-28T05:37:00.000-08:00

For working with Bill Michels, architect (this is not HIS work...his is much better!).

Bedroom NE corner: With the stairway gone in the upper right, there is room for a decent bedroom, assuming I can re-located laundry, tub, and water softener to the left so it is near the other utilities. A disadvantage is that there is duct work running along window wall.

Bedroom/office NW corner: Re-located closet opening to make an optional bedroom, office, eating, or exercise room. Horizontally-running duct in center of room reduces the space.

Kitchenette: A kitchenette is shown. Bath: Stays existing location.

Flooring: I found a good bamboo flooring product from Cali Bamboo that is 3/8" thick and environmentally produced/manufactured: I could see that in all the areas except the lower right storage area and mechanical area.

Family Room: With the fireplace done, that space is an ideal area for recessed audio equipment with access in the main room. I drew shelve/cabinet units flanking existing doorway to the storage area.

Heating/AC: I still don't know about heating/AC; furthermore our existing unit is on its last leg. I am open to replacing it with a similar kind but sized for the addition or something else.

Alex Completed First Year of Diving

2009-02-22T21:34:00.001-08:00

Thanks to a great coach, pictured with Rick. And friend Sam. The other parents and kids involved in the program made this a wonderful first sports season for Alex.

New Game

2009-01-26T06:20:00.001-08:00

Thanks to B&G P!

FP Design

2009-01-24T06:02:00.000-08:00

FP Idea

2009-01-23T13:48:00.000-08:00

(By the way -- Bike Edina blog posts have moved to http://tcstreetsforpeople.org/node/494 )

Happy Birthday Karen

2009-01-06T22:40:00.000-08:00

One day late! If this were a card, the cover would say:

Your birthday wish has come true...

Revised House Ideas

2008-11-09T17:28:00.000-08:00

Traded space between LR and DR, kept existing fireplace stack. This is a variation from the September posting.

Fall Bike Bonanza with Barb

2008-11-01T14:00:00.000-07:00

Lenny

2008-10-14T18:16:00.001-07:00

Another art piece from my sister, Karen.

House Remodel Ideas

2008-09-22T06:06:00.001-07:00

Based on discussion meeting with B. Michels, prepared by K. Johnson as concept draft.

Existing House Dimensions

2008-09-22T06:04:00.000-07:00

House Design

2008-09-19T03:37:00.001-07:00

Here are some rough diagrams of the current layout. Meeting with Bill M. today for some concepts.

Family Gathering

2008-09-19T03:37:00.000-07:00

Surf's Up

2008-08-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

Decked out for multi-modal transportation...

Me and Laurie

2008-07-10T10:40:00.001-07:00

Here I am with my cousin. Why, it seems like just yesterday...(thanks, Laurie!)

Vinny's Head

2008-06-27T18:09:00.000-07:00

Choice mug shot from my sister, Karen Kersten.

Alex Flower Fiesta

2008-06-13T14:19:00.001-07:00

More photos taken today by Alex J. Johnson...

Hauling Mulch & Girl

2008-06-13T14:10:00.000-07:00

More biking adventures, hauling mulch with my Surly Big Dummy and Bikes at Work trailer. Photos by Alex Johnson.

P.S. 6/24: I will post some of the "how-to" for the trailer and the development process with Bikes-at-Work Trailers in Iowa, which I really enjoyed working with. Gotcha, Dylster.

From Lisa Johnson, "A Poem for Kirk"

There once was a man named Kirk
Who was a cute bicycle jerk
Throughout the city he'd slog
And slap bike stuff on his blog
While promoting biking to work.

P.S. Hi, Teragram.

MS-150

2008-06-09T05:10:00.001-07:00

Thank you, supporters! We raised $2.7 million for the event overall, with the Capella Cruisers teaming up with 50+ riders, several volunteers and pledges for the team exceeding $28,000. Some pics from below. Met new friends Andre S., Jorje G. (same bike!), and new co-workers. I also saw Ryan last year, a fellow rider that has MS. He was able to ride on the first day. Good job Ryan, I admire you.

Moppy was my mascot, donated from Patrick and Jessica. Demonstrating that scholarly research is part of the cure, she still evoked the lighter side of the ride. "Your girlfriend is hot," "Your helper is not pedaling," and "Oh my gosh I thought she was real!" were common comments...lots of smiles. It was worth the extra weight. And she never complained once.

The Capella Cruisers had fun tent in Hinkley and it was well-organized with a fun group of Capella workers and their friends/family. I hope next year will build off of our expanding success. Excellent work, riders & captains!

And more pics from A.A.

Bike Hauling Bike

2008-06-02T04:59:00.000-07:00

More fun with hauling things...

Hail, June!

2008-06-02T04:47:00.000-07:00

June 1st picture taken in our backyard. This is the day after a hail storm. Several inches deep (well, about 4 or 5), this resulted from the wind and gravity pushing it across the back of our yard and down the steps to our side yard.

Just for Fun

2008-06-01T18:37:00.000-07:00

I'm so proud of my sister! "Just for Fun" is an original oil on canvas measuring 12" by 24." A premium frame extends that to 22" by 34". Artist Karen Kersten's brief bio is located in a different post.

Time Span

2008-06-01T18:21:00.000-07:00

My sister has created another masterpiece! "Time Span" is an original oil on canvas measuring 18" by 14" and the handsome frame extends that to 26" by 22". Artist Karen Kersten's brief bio is located in a different post.

Susan's Fire & Ice Party

2008-06-01T18:07:00.000-07:00

What a bang! Thanks, Susan for a fun time and scheduling the party during a hailstorm. Fire, food, hail, laughter...it was a party!

Edina Energy & Environment Commission

2008-06-01T17:52:00.001-07:00

The first annual event took place this weekend at the Edina High School. Nicely organized by the Edina Energy & Environment Commission, it was a pleasure to participate. Thanks to Alice & Alex for helping me to present. We had a lively discussion on current strengths and opportunities for biking in Edina (and to and from).

Engaged in several conversations about various city groups working more closely in the near future to promote use of bicycles as transportation and other uses. I look forward to it.

Moppy Gets Hauled

2008-06-01T17:41:00.000-07:00

Moppy got her derriere hauled from St. Paul through Minneapolis, Saint Louis Park, and Edina this week. "Nice load," "Interesting pile of limbs," and compliments that only certain whistle tones can offer are all examples of attention she elicited.

Pictured near my ever-faithful Surly long-tail Big Dummy are Patrick and Jessica who were kind enough to have offered Moppy room and boarding during the past few years after her escape out of Rosedale Mall with Jessican & her mom.

Moppy's next adventure is riding on the snap deck during my MS-150 fundraising event coming up this weekend. I hope she's got good conversational skills; otherwise, it's going to be a long ride.

Karen Kersten: Magazine Article

2008-06-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

My sister Karen Kersten is featured in Her Voice magazine, summer 2008. A few of the article images are thumbnailed below. Her lifelong love of drawing and painting led her to study at the Minnesota River School of Fine Art in Burnsville and the Hurinenko Paquet Studio in St. Paul.

After her formal art education Karen taught drawing, portraiture and still life for six years at the Minnesota River School of Fine Art. In 1999 she relocated to the beautiful lake country of northern Minnesota, where she feels blessed to be living her dream of being a horse owner and painting in her Pine River studio. She participates in many juried local and national shows, art organizations and galleries.

The full article is linked here.

It's Spring at Saint Johns Ave

2008-05-22T21:29:00.001-07:00

Some photos around the yard & new home...

National Bike to Work 2008

2008-05-15T07:04:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos and stats from the event. We had a total of 2 riders this year. Better than last year because this is the first year that there was an Edina convoy. Pics below and reflections & stats below!

Some reflections:

1. What went well, and feedback for what we can do next year

The map planning and centralizing on the Bike Walk Week site went well. Our route was perfect and I liked the start time. Thanks to Shaun and team for the resources.

What I'd like to do next year is more advertising locally and via web sites for the convoy from Edina. Specifically, getting some flyers posted at bike shops, coffee shops, and other venues.

2. Any interesting stories

The funny thing is that the other person showing up had a Surly bike like me (hers was a Crosscheck and mine a Big Dummy), rear saddle bags, Shimano pedals, and we both had the exact same sandle-type biking shoes that we purchased at REI recently. We both work downtown Minneapolis and commute throughout the winter. We had a pleasant conversation and kept a good pace all the way to downtown. Then at the government plaza, I noticed another Crosscheck and I was about to say "Sue, look...your bike's twin" and then looked up to see my oldest and best friend riding that bike, Scott from the UoM. Saw lots of friends and acquaintences at the plaza, thanks for the food and displays from places like One on One (thanks for the socks, Geno!).

Also...from Shaun M., NTP Project Coordinator:

"We had 40 bike convoys and 3 walk convoys
190 workplace teams were formed
980 people attended the 12 downtown celebrations and free breakfast locations
2,400 people registered online – and of those 11% had never biked or walked to work before"

"Also, Fox 9 did a story on Bike Walk to Work Day. Tim Blotz even walked people through the process of looking for commuter convoys on a computer!

South View Middle School Bike Project

2008-05-13T20:04:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos from last Saturday's event. Alex D. and John M. did a wonderful job organizing this, and thanks to their classmates, parents, relatives, Mayor Hovland, and other community leaders for making this possible.

You Can Always Go...Downtown

2008-05-13T19:33:00.003-07:00

Thanks, Petula. Here is our recent downtown bus excursion. (Alex got a near-concussion at school a few days earlier, BTW.)

The Big Trailer

2008-05-13T19:19:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos for the first haul for the new Bikes at Work trailer.

Capella Spring Bicycling Seminar

2008-05-13T17:03:00.000-07:00

Here is a scene from our 2nd bicycle commuting seminar. Pictured is Mike, facilitator of this session's meeting. Like the last time, about 25 people attended. This was another great team effort. Momentum!

Capella Green Team

2008-05-13T16:23:00.001-07:00

Prior to our annual meeting today, we had some employee groups set up tables. Here is a scene from the Capella Green Team table.

Mom and Dad High School

2008-05-13T16:21:00.001-07:00

Taken around 1947. Roosevelt High School, Minneapolis.

Edina Convoy

2008-04-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

Here is the route I'm leading for the Edina location for the national May Bike/Walk to work week. Site is http://www.bikewalkweek.org/. The date is May 14th. Meet at 6:50 a.m. at Jerry's Foods on Vernon Ave in Edina. We'll be leaving at 7 a.m. and will probably be downtown by 7:45 a.m. at the Gov't Center for the festivities.

Edina Convoy to Minneapolis Downtown
Find more Bike Rides in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Ceramics, Wallpaper, Chairs...

2008-04-11T20:39:00.001-07:00

Haulin' Away...

2008-03-31T10:49:00.000-07:00

Another interesting load for a neighbor. Nice going, Alex.

Goodbye and Hello

2008-03-30T21:14:00.000-07:00

Saying goodbye to the kids as Lisa snapped a pic. They're off to visit family on vacation while I prepare for the big move on Thursday.

This was the last day they would be in the current house. We will miss our neighbors! But 2 miles away isn't far. I'm reminded of the changes we experienced on the house. Also more importantly the changes we experienced these past 14 years as a family...

We swung on the Highland swings
Dreaming of kids that would walk to school

Aliya's name arrived in Lisa's dream,
Artem's face in her magazine,
Vision of boys swimming near a fence;
Alex too, it made perfect sense.

Winter school carnivals,
New Year's skating at Highlands Lake,
Fall picnics at the Tree Park,
Walking to school is fun to do.

"Hello, hello
I don't know why you say goodbye
I say hello"

Autmn Blaze Maple grows higher; new family will see,
Dexter's ashes nourish the tree
While we begin a new adventure much more free

Meet new neighbors, bring a pie.
Polar Express fits on the shelf.

"Oh, no
You say goodbye and I say hello."

Frosty malts after the pool,
Another season to walk to school.

New Painting

2008-03-28T10:40:00.000-07:00

This just in from Karen, my sister. She writes, "Here's a recent commission. (oil 16x20) I love painting horses and people! :~) "

We both like to ride. Being a city guy, however, my steeds are steel instead of flesh and bones.

The Big Dummy Has Landed!

2008-03-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

Flew in from Chicago and took the train to downtown, walked to One on One Bicycle Studio, paid for the piece of work (almost all used parts!), and rode home. It was fantastic!

My first ride carried two spare tires, all my luggage, and a bag of papers, cereal, and a banana. Here is the first photo as dusk set the same night.

12 people already rode it those first few hours. Ellen (pictured below) borrowed the bike to deliver Girl Scout cookies with two of her daughters on the deck. This bike is sick! It's everything I had hoped it would be...and more.

Encouraging Sprawl

2008-03-19T05:29:00.000-07:00

What do you think about this statement: "This [cheap gas in the U.S.] allows us to move further away from the city and buy houses 30% bigger and buy larger, more powerful automobiles."

From CNBC this morning: "Discussing the economy, with Wilbur Ross, Jr., WL Ross & Co. chairman/CEO; Mike Jackson, AutoNation CEO; John Hofmeister, Shell Oil U.S. Operations CEO and Robert McTeer, former Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas president"

I'm at a school colloquium in Chicago and turned on CNBC. Panelists this morning are spouting off on the advantages of cheap oil in the U.S. which keeps our gas prices historically low as a portion of our income.

Sometimes I think we are in denial. Yesterday while walking to class I saw other headlines "World Environment in Peril" with shots of melting glaciers and other havoc.

Environment aside, what are the advantages of spreading humanity out to cover up the diminishing prairies, grasslands, farms, and forests? What is the cost of the extended sewer systems? The cost of additional pollution as people use more and more fossil fuels to use those "larger and more powerful" cars as they move away? What is the social cost of kids not growing up near neighbors and adults not having friends within walking distance? What about the loss of the "neighborhood school" where people actually walk to school? The walking/busing/biking ease of getting to work? Sure, short-term economic gains can be enjoyed from the incessant need to increase shareholder value year upon year. But where are the measurements for "gross national social stability"? Air quality? Carbon footprint reduction? Oil-inspired wars?

OK, now the New York auto show is being featured. My parting thoughts are that 14 bicycles fit in a standard car parking lot space. At a fraction of the energy required to melt, build, transport, and sell one regular car.

Bicycling (and other human-powered transport), busing, and other good choices are good for health, society, and the world in both political and environmental aspects. It is apparent that stakeholders such as Shell Oil, energy investors, lobbyists, and many government leaders might need further proof to see the situation in a longer-term perspective. What do you think? What will you do?

Big Dummy Ordered

2008-03-13T01:32:00.000-07:00

G.O. at One on One Bicycle Studio was able to locate a frame for me...might come this Friday. I predict that 2008 will be the year of the utility bike. Look for continued excitement in the media, more long-tails showing up on the streets, and more positive trends for bikes as transportation and utilities. The image below is from surlybikes.com; visit the Frames section.

"...it hauls your groceries, tools, human and animal friends, surfboard, work duds, briefcase, vacuum cleaner, firewood, moonshine, camping gear, banjo, mulch, and anything else you can imagine, while providing the functionality, durability, and sweet ride characteristics that Surly bikes are known for. Use the Big Dummy for commuting to work, running errands, taking the kids to school, farm/yard work, touring, or just riding around cuz it’s fun."

P.S. I couldn't sleep today and woke up at 2:30 a.m. thinking about it. Guess it's time to ride to work....

The first photo is from the Surly blog. The next photo is not mine. Credit to Mountain Bike Review.

-14F & Still Biking Strong

2008-03-01T04:34:00.000-08:00

My favorite biking season is winter. My favorite biking conditions are snow and ice. Have you ever ridden on freshly fallen snow? Sounds like squeaky marshmallows. How about packed snow at -14F? Sounds like pleasant but slightly unsettling alien metallic humming. Cracked ice at zero F = Rice Krispies on steroids. In the future I hope to prepare an audio file of these for your enjoyment. For now, here are some of my favorite winter images.