Patience is a virtue......and not much fun? Whatever

While I had fully thought that our out of state transition would now be complete, my situation finds me yet, sitting here in Idaho.  While initially I had determined this to be a problem, it has been decided that it is truly a great transition point for my family in relocating to a mountain town.

Life in a resort area is a substantially different experience.  I recently recall a midweek conversation with my now 7 year old son where he asked why all the people hadn't gone home yet so we could have the good McCall back.  Translation, sign no. 1 that you are transitioning to mountain town life.

Sign no. 2 you are transitioning to a mountain town is geared much more toward the adults.  In a recent trip to the valley, I felt as though I was buying everything at wholesale.  Living in a resort town is somewhat like living in an airport at times.

Sign no. 3, and my most favorite, people have more time.  More time for meaningful conversation, more time to listen, more time to put down the phone, computer and reflect on the meaning and purpose of life and more time with family.

What am I learning about patience?  I value the little things I have and am learning, right now, in the moment!

Cheers

Chapter 2

With the mercury climbing the thermometer well above the 100 degree mark, the allure of the cool mountain air never sounded quite as refreshing.  With the top removed from the Jeep a balmy morning would soon become borderline unbearable as I headed up the hill, the breeze slapping my face.  Rounding the bend, just beyond the rafting paradise of Banks he stood there waiting.  I'd never pick up a hitch hiker, but, with numerous trips up SH-55 under my belt, this time the thought of company was welcomed.

The absence of traffic in the early mid-morning allowed for a quick turn around.  "My name's Scot", and with his short introduction, he tossed his knapsack in the back and we were on the road.  I soon came to find that he was roughly my fathers age.  With his wife at home and his children grown, with families of their own, he had decided to do something he'd always wanted and travel the Northwest, searching for the best hot springs.

The conversation proved very enjoyable.  I learned of his adventures, the places he'd been, his background, the people he'd met and most importantly, I learned that if you are seeking knowledge, life experience and true adventure, you will not only find it everyday, but, you will find yourself unintentionally aligned with people of similar mindset.

Prior to this chance encounter I'd become so engrossed in my task that I begin to lose sight of the true purpose of what I set out to accomplish.  My two week hiatus from writing has proven to bring this collection of life lessons, reflections and malted-hopped ramblings back to center.  My attempt at writing what I'd learned became the focal point over extracting daily morsels of knowledge through my life experience.  

Life is an adventure.

Cheers

Perfect quote for the day

"Give me a woman who loves beer and I will conquer the world."

- Kaiser Wilhelm

Additional proof I married the perfect woman.

Great idea.....

For the first time in 17 years I get to take off work on my birthday, because I can.  I don't have to worry about month end or working until 7:00 or 8:00 in the evening.  Yes, you could say I'm going to actually enjoy the day.

With that in mind, I thought I'd share an article today as well.  Enjoy!



Northwest Canning, LLC is a mobile beverage canning operation that serves local craft breweries. Most breweries are unable to can their beer because it requires a large initial investment in inventory and machinery. Thanks to Northwest Canning, micro-brewers now have access to the materials and equipment to make canning their beer possible.


Craft breweries are turning to canning because it is more cost effective and eco-friendly than bottling, which allows them to conquer new markets and increase their profit margin.


Northwest Canning was started by Justin Brandt and Arne Hakanson, both graduates of Linfield College and members of Kappa Sigma Fraternity, where their friendship solidified. Having earned experience in the business world from running successful financial advising practices, Brandt and Hakanson’s goal is to provide excellent and reliable customer service. Brandt runs the day-to-day operations and services micro-breweries in both Oregon and Washington.


“We are the first to do this in the Pacific Northwest,” Hakanson, a Tacoma local said, “no one else in the area is providing a mobile canning service. By canning with us, craft breweries will reach untapped markets.”


“Cans are far superior to bottles” explained Brandt, a Portland resident. “Because cans are not affected by UV light and contain less dissolved oxygen, canning results in a higher-quality, longer-lasting brew.”


Northwest Canning recently completed its first canning run with Tacoma’s Wingman Brewers, canning their Ace IPA and P-51 Porter. Check out the video at http://www.facebook.com/northwestcanning.


Breweries interested in hiring Northwest Canning can contact them at northwestcanning@gmail.com or check them out at northwestcanning.com.

Thought for the day

We all fall short daily of being the individual that we were designed to be.  The attempt to perfect ourselves, to arrive, is a trek with no coordinates for the mapping of an end.  Giving ones all is the only thing that can be expected and in return the sole satisfaction within.  As rare the act of meeting the intentions of another is the man who stays the coarse.  Live full, listen often and surround yourself with a rare few that will face the battle with you.

- Aaron Fulcher

At times, inspiration comes in a small moment, a conversation or setting.  Maybe it's the Hemingway I've been reading of late.  I hope you enjoy this read as I enjoyed penning it.

Cheers 

Great craft beer?

What makes a truly great craft beer?  While a majority of the experience can depend on the beer of choice, setting, company and presentation are the three main factors I would investigate to ensure a peak experience.

Consider this;

Setting - You probably wouldn't sit down to open a rare, limited release bottle of bourbon barrel-aged stout on a sweltering afternoon on the patio, with a plate of fish tacos, in a large group of people.  A bottle such as this would be best served with a close friend, a cigar or a chocolate souffle and an overstuffed leather chair.

Company - Consider the palate of those you share a craft beer with.  I recommend avoiding the attempt to enjoy something of extreme quality with a couple of Milwaukee's Best swigging sidekicks.  If you were fortunate to get a bottle of Deschutes latest collaboration, Collage, it would be best served in a snifter at room temperature rather than ice cold, shotgun-style with a bunch of college buddies.

Presentation - Just as in serving a fine bottle of wine or an aged cheese, presentation is everything.  A carefully selected crafted beer should be no different.  Use the appropriate glassware and if serving with food, do a little research on the best types of food with which to pair.  Great Divide is a great example of a brewery who places these items on the label of each bottle and knowing so will make the experience that much greater.

With that in mind, it's time to venture out of your comfort zone.  Make a trip to a specialty beer shop and treat yourself to a new experience in the craft beer world.

Cheers

Salmon River Brewery

Like anything truly great in the central Idaho, mountain town of McCall, whether mountain biking, skiing, camping or fishing, you have to go just off piste.  Salmon River Brewery, SRB to the locals, is no different.  Matt Ganz, a former smokejumper and Hot Shot and Matt Hurlbutt, a former contractor by trade, often referred to as the 2 Matt's decided that the tourist town of roughly 3,000 year round residents had room for a second brewery.

So, why beer?  In sitting down with Ganz, I discovered that beer quite possibly courses through his veins and as he so eloquently stated, "I'm just tapping into my heritage, pun intended."  Ganz family owned and operated a number of breweries across the Northwest.  His great, great, great grandfather founded Alma Brewing in 1855 which saw a successful 50 year run up to prohibition.  His family also founded Seattle Brewing and Malting which birthed a signature Pale Ale we know today as Rainier.  The popularity of Rainier Beer grew exponentially,  launching them to become the 6th largest brewery in the world by 1904.

In what may be a little bit different question, how did beer save your life? I asked.

"Beer gave me something that I can absolutely, full heartedly be passionate about and that's a lot to say.  A lot of people in the jump community fear leaving for the lack of something better.  It can also be quite an elixir."  He smiled.  "Why do people drink beer?  To relax, enjoy a conversation with a friend.  I just don't like to see it abused."

Every brewer initially gets their inspiration from another brewery, being from the Pacific Northwest, Ganz named the expected Deschutes and RedHook.  To dig a little deeper, however,  Ganz cited Terminal Gravity for their location and business plan, Amnesia Brewing of Portland for their pub model, Full Sail Brewing of Hood River for the Willy Wonka Factor and Dogfish Head, well, because they have just done about everything a small brewery could ever hope to do and then some.  Ganz also wanted to specifically give a special, high five and pat on the back to Sockeye as a local brewery for the flash of hands on experience and shadowing in their facility.

What's next?  Look to see SRB expand the number of draft accounts in the valley, specifically in the Boise area.  With a new delivery truck, new kegs and new tap handles on the way they are definitely moving into the next phases of their business plan.  You can expect some light bottling of some 22's releasing some of their staples to places like the Boise Co-op and local craft beer specialty stores.

For now, make the 2 hour drive north from Boise to the little mountain town on the lake, that is, the whole package deal.  Find your way to the Liquid District and you'll undoubtedly catch one of the 2 Matt's, probably with the door up, brewing that next great batch of true Idaho craft beer.

Cheers

Inside the public house

Saturday night performance by Reilly Coyote

Full courtyard on a Saturday evening

Plenty of parking

Keep Sailing......

"It may be that the gulfs will wash us down;
It may be we shall touch the Happy Isles,
And though we are not now that strength which in old days
Moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are—
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will;
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield."


- Alfred Lord Tennyson, Ulysses


I’ve been thinking about that poem a lot lately. And I think what it says is that, while it’s tempting to play it safe, the more we’re willing to risk, the more alive we are. In the end, what we regret most are the chances we never took. 


- Frasier Crane aka Kelsey Grammer


I suppose that I'll pilfer a poem and a quote as they are both meaningful in my life and this new adventure.  It's easy to second guess oneself as you set sail and voyage to new shores.  The land you once new, the land that was comfortable, the friends you surrounded yourself with, begin to grown faint.  At times you will find yourself in rough waters, the waves threatening your very existence.


One has to rely on the resolve within oneself, that deep desire for change.  It's only after spending a few days in open water that you can hope to see a new shore.  The water has been anything but calm or easy, however, the daily mending of sails and testing of gear has aided in the creation of a much stronger person.  Relying on ones team, ones family, is the only way to navigate safely.  When we arrive at shore it will make dry, stable land that much more rewarding.


Cheers

Grab the family and enjoy!

While Ponderosa State Park isn't quite as off piste as I generally would choose to pursue, it proved to be a perfect route for my family.  While cycling can be quite a workout from the novice to the most technical of rider, a trail-a-bike on mountain trails with your child aboard adds an interesting degree of additional balance and difficulty.

If you haven't ridden the trails in Ponderosa State Park, I would encourage you to grab the family and go.  The trails around the park are of varying width which include some paved sections, all of which meander through some of McCall's most beautiful lakeside setting.

A half hour or so of throwing rocks in the lake generally prove, however, to be the highlight of the day for my kids.  Although, being on the backside of Payette Lake on a secluded bay made for a beautiful setting for all of us to enjoy.

Just a short ride across town and we finished with a pint of liquid refreshment at Salmon River Brewery where the kids enjoyed some company and most importantly the sand.  Here's to good weather, good company and good beer!

Cheers

Life Lesson No. 21

"Dost thou love life?  Then do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of."

- Benjamin Franklin

While time is inherently our most valuable commodity, it is the easiest thing for us to waste.  With all honesty, my dramatic change of schedule and sometimes lack thereof has made it easy to lose control of my time.

Schedule, routine and purpose while sometimes mundane, do ensure that we have some sort of outline for life.  We can't, however, become so focused on schedule that we do not allow ourselves to live our lives and experience some of life's most precious, unplanned gifts.

Search for balance and life will be full.  The sun is shining, the patio is calling and I have a cold beer and a turkey burger calling my name.

Cheers

If at first.......

You've heard the old saying, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again."  I was raised never to quit.  The word just isn't in my vocabulary.  I worked for the same company for 17 years, I saw myself through to the completion of my Eagle Scout, I attempt to surround myself with positive, everyday, no matter what is going on around me.  I just keep going.

I suppose sometimes it's to a fault but I truly want to instill that quality in my children.  We will not quit.   Granted, it's still in small doses and they are still kids but each day I see in that fight in them more and more to keep trying.

My son has decided to make slacklining a past time sport, while my daughter has chosen ice skating, both of which have tested my resolve as they are not the easiest sports I've attempted.  Watching them is a continual reminder to myself to keep going.  They are watching, everything.

I will continue to peck away at the keyboard, each and every day.  This has been one of my most difficult tasks.  The day to day, searching for what seem to be the smallest of life's lessons.

Cheers

It's not easy to balance on a flexible 2" strap

Surveying the ice

Life Lesson No. 38

Teaching children that the best things in life are worth waiting for is an arduous task.  For an adult learning the same lesson can be nearly impossible.

Just south of McCall and about 45 minutes by dirt road we found ourselves deep in the trees with no signs of civilization.  It was the type of drive that made my wife nervous, with a firm grip on the dash.  After we circled around on an old logging road to the point of beginning, her confidence level was even higher.

If 6 years of Boy Scouts taught me anything, it was to "Be Prepared."  My small daypack consisted of a compass, fire starter, solar blankets, wind breakers, cord, a Gerber multi-tool, solar powered flashlight, bone saw, first aid kit, two canteens, the camera, lunch and a few snacks.  So, after a short search of the topographical map, we were headed back up the hill.

The hike, ideally rocky and fully uphill began and just shy of an hour and a half later my family stood in awe of the view.  The first words out of my 4 and 6 year olds mouths were, "Dad, that was so worth it to hike all that way."

Lessons in life don't have to be as difficult as we make them.  Anything in life that is worth accomplishing is going to take hard work.  It makes the reward that much greater.

Cheers

Time

Cycling to Ponderosa State Park yesterday I was again made very aware of how perceptive a 4 and 6 year old can be.  "Dad, if you still worked at your old job we could probably buy one of these cabins right by the lake," my son said.  "But if he still worked at his old job we wouldn't see him much," chimed in my four year old daughter.  "Yeah, I like spending time with dad," said my son.

Children crave time and I can't share that enough.  They'll always accept toys, gifts etc., just as most of us would as well.  In reality, however, a majority of the purchases we make, for our children or ourselves for that matter, are done to fill a void.  The solution we most often come up with is if we don't have a connection we can fill it with things, most of which end up becoming meaningless and dropped in the next yard sale.

So, the day was spent biking around town, playing at the park and going to the beach.  The crowds will be here soon enough for the weekend so the exploration began.  The evening ended at Crusty's Pizza where the owner hired a 4 and 6 year old to make their own pizza in the kitchen.

Living life as it comes and thankful already for this 3 week delay in the move.

Cheers

That's Life

Stuck again!  I've determined that I've written about most of the major topics that have been weighing on my mind.  Now what?  That search must begin for the little things.  The day in, day out items that can often be so small that they go unnoticed.

A comment from my son or daughter, a conversation with a friend, a new reaction to a situation or the pages of a book.  In any event, my quest will continue.  I choose not to allow myself to become so distracted that I cannot find meaning in each and every day.

With that being said, we are now looking at a  3 week delay in our move.  I am reminded that everything in life happens for a reason.  I've determined that it's a perfect opportunity to really spend time focusing on what is important.  Looking forward to quality time with family, friends and time at the cabin.

Life is a book of adventure best served page by page, so as to enjoy every chapter.  Have you slowed down lately to read your story.

Cheers

"Beer is good, more is better"

Gary Fish started Deschutes Brewery in downtown Bend in 1988.  The brewery was named after the nearby Deschutes River and built with the community in mind, creating the public house and local feel. Deschutes Brewery produced just 310 barrels in his first year.  By 2014, however, with a number of renovations and additions, Deschutes is slated to produce in excess of 500,000 barrels.

Black Butte Porter was and still is considered the flagship beer produced at Deschutes, which actually surprised me, as I would have guessed it to be Mirror Pond.  Black Butte Porter, is the number one craft porter in distribution, while it is only distributed in 18 states.  Additionally, Deschutes Brewery is now ranked no. 5 in craft beer sales in the United States.

With statistics like this, I probably don't need to convince you to try one of their liquid concoctions, chances are, you've already had one or two of their award winning brews.  Maybe it should be of no surprise that, despite their size, they still maintain that small, craft brewery feel.  They still brew test batches and a majority of the beer poured at the public house in the 12 barrel system located downtown.

Craft Beer in Central Oregon is definitely alive and well and a majority of the thanks is due Gary Fish and Deschutes Brewery.

Cheers

50 barrel home of beers such as "The Abyss"

Shipped in one piece from Germany, these barrels run deep below the floor

A maze of fermenting vessels

On the road again....

Today was to be moving day.  Everyone was scheduled on both ends, the truck was booked and we were headed out.  There was, however, a different plan.  One thing that I've learned over the course of the last 6 months is flexibility.  Things rarely happen to plan and the way we react to it is what makes it manageable.

So, the next few days will be filled with travel.  Heading to Oregon to attempt to finalize anything that needs be.  Everything happens for a reason and another reminder that we truly do not have control.

So today is again, short, quick and to the point.  Time to hit the road, McCall to Boise to Bend.  The road goes on forever............

Cheers

Life Lessons

As I sit back and reflect on the happenings of the last six months, I can't help but be a little bit amazed.  At times, it's alot to take in.  I've been labeled as an "early mid-life crisis, visionary, quitter, free-thinker and burn-out."  The best part is, I know exactly why I made the decisions I did and outside of my wife and two beautiful children, it really doesn't matter what anyone else thinks.  That realization, in itself, is the most freeing.

To take the road less traveled has been an experience beyond anything I could truly put into words.  It has been a wild ride.  As we prepare to leave this beautiful valley, where I have lived my entire life, I am confident that I am aptly prepared for the next stage of the race.

Stepping into the unknown, I have a wife and children who love and support me and most importantly, who now know me.  I have a connection to those closest to me, a choice that I have made and one that can never be replaced.  I have a newfound understanding of what is important, what has meaning and who is there in the darkest hours.

If I may impart anything in the first stages of this journey, it is this, "live life to the fullest, live simply and live everyday as if there is no tomorrow."  I hope you will continue this journey with us as we relocate to Bend, Oregon.  Let the adventure begin!

Cheers

Ale Trail

The Central Oregon Trail Alliance has teamed up with the Bend Brewing Company for a new summer ale.

The Funner Trail Summer Ale is the BBC’s newest beer, and it is named after one of COTA’s newest trails; the Funner Trail.

Sunday's proceeds from the Summer Ale beer sales went directly to the nonprofit.

COTA builds new trails throughout Central Oregon, and maintains them with the help of trail adoptees.

Funner Trail adoptee Todd Wells said he could not be happier that the local brewery wanted to help out, and never thought he would name a trail that would later have a beer named after it.

“The beer is fantastic. My favorite beers are pale ales and IPAs, and they blended it with a nice hoppy pale ale,” said Wells. “The fact that I like it makes it that much better.”

If you would like to learn more about COTA you can visit their 13th annual spring fling trail work event next Saturday, June 9th at the Mt. Bachelor Park and Ride. There you can enjoy a free breakfast by REI and help clean and build trails. There will also be an after-party with a BBQ, and Deschutes Brewery beer.

Courtesy of KVTZ, Bend, OR

Surrender

It's a cool 54 degrees as I sit in quiet on the deck at the cabin.  The weekend traffic has subsided, the hustle and bustle and the noise has given way to absolute quiet.

I can hear a light wind blowing gently through the aspens.  A cricket chirping in the distance.  A fox and her pups, scarce during the disturbance of the weekend, are now playing in the front yard under the soothing glow of the two strings of crudely hung patio lights.  The setting is perfect.

To go hunt for a cricket, I wouldn't find one, let alone hear it.  To attempt to harness the wind and send it through a thicket of trees to hear the leaves dance, the task is impossible and if I took off across the field to find the fox, she'd never lead me within 50 feet of her den.

Once again, proof that we ultimately have no control.  A gift, such as this evening, perfect in so many ways, is only so as a result of surrender.

Cheers

I bid you adieu

Yes, the times of post have been a bit erratic as of late.  To be candid, we're moving and life has become chaotic.  Needless to say it's a chore to rid yourself of nearly 2/3 of your belongings, between gifts to friends and family, yard sales and donations, a long period of time in your home and it can become a catch all for a number of things you don't need.

As I get down to the last few items strewn about the house, I can't help but become a bit (okay, alot) nostalgic.  It's a little difficult to look at empty bedrooms that once held my children's cribs and then beds.  Little Abby's striped wall, now the only visual draw in the room.  Opening Brendan's closet to find a kindergarten, Santa Claus, sack puppet, crudely put together with construction paper and glue.

Eight years ago to the day, I sat on the patio by the firepit, having just closed on this very lot to build a house that I designed.  I'd spent almost the year prior, drawing and re-drawing what I envisioned for our family, kids, entertaining and holiday functions.

Tonight, I sit by the firepit, alone on the patio, for the last time at the house I created and realize that a move is from house to house, it's who is inside that makes it a home.

Cheers

Thought for the day

"He was a wise man who invented beer."

- Plato

Lost in Conversation

I have found myself of late thinking about how many times I may have taken friendships for granted.  How I may have missed an opportunity to grab a cup of coffee or sit by the firepit and just sit and visit.  Yes, life gets busy, we have a family, work and responsibilities.

Craft beer has been just the answer to that problem.  No, I'm not drowning my sorrows.  It's been the opportunity to slow down and enjoy something special, something that took time to create and something that we should take time to enjoy.

Sitting down with a friend over a finely brewed malted beverage is the opportunity to converse, to listen and to slow down.  It's just not that often these days that we separate ourselves from this hectic world and its fast pace.  From our computers, email and text.

So, to the brewers who take the time to create something special, to be savored and enjoyed, I raise my glass.  To my friends who have enjoyed a malted hopped beverage and several hours of conversation with me, I appreciate you, your time and our friendship.

A fine craft beer, like a true friendship is meant to be savored!

Cheers

Thank you Ernest Hemingway

The interesting thing about writing is the way that it evolves.  I began this journey in writing and sharing my thoughts just four months ago.  As something I've never before done, I allowed it to coax me as it may in whatever direction it chose.  In a sense, I allowed it to become it's own adventure.

It quickly became apparent that in this journey, the search for foundation and meaning were deeply rooted.  My story was my question, the matte silver keyboard, my listening ear.  My pursuit allowed me clear and concise communication, for the first time, pure, without interference.  

I began the arduous task of ridding myself of clutter and distraction, which reared its head in many forms. Visually apparent, possessions were first to go, however, it was the new-found realization of the unseen that proved to be most freeing.  To unburden oneself, is to live life more fully.

Straightaway, I've been overcome with a deeper desire for knowledge and understanding.  The answers to my questions don't lie in the arrival to any given point but in the expedition.  Those I meet and interact with on a daily basis, through situations good, bad or indifferent, have the potential for eternal effect.  That effect becomes choice.

Yes, one can begin down a given path, leaving each fork in the road to chance or be calculated, strategically mapping out every turn, however, to truly experience life, to put pen to paper we must surrender control, for we have none.

Cheers

Memorial Day

Remember the reason for the day off and for a picnic with your family.

Rarities

In the last month I've experienced some of life's rarities with my kids, not for any other reason than simplicity and a great family experience.  They also happen to go very well with a good craft beer.

So with the beginning of Memorial Day weekend, grab the cooler, the tent, some folding chairs and a raincoat and take the kids somewhere fun, even if it is the back yard.

Here are some great family activities;

Canoeing
Hiking
Playing Uno
Skipping Rocks
Bicycling
Enjoying a Firepit
Sitting on a Dock
Reading a Book
Swinging at a Park
Rock Wall Climbing
Fishing
Playing Bocce Ball
Pinecone Baseball
Legos

Be safe and have a great holiday weekend.

Cheers!

Bubbles?

To pick up the morning paper, flip on the computer or just shoot the breeze at your local watering hole, Craft Beer seems to be the topic of choice as of late.  What some may consider great news has others both hesitant and concerned.

How much is too much?  With the not too distant memory of the Dot-com crash and Real Estate bubble, you can't help but wonder if the beer industry is getting a big head (pun intended).  Venturing into restaurants and pubs as of late, talk is swirling of such and such brewery startup and looking for an aspiring brewer to pursue a new venture.

The answer.  American's consume beer and better yet, we are demanding better beer.  Craft Beer sales in the United States still accounted for only 5% of sales by volume while beer sales as a whole declined by 1.3% as reported by the Brewer's Association.

What does this mean?  There's nowhere to go but up!  In a market once dominated by mega-breweries, brewing sub-par brew, we are demanding better!  We want bigger flavor, better hops and locally owned and grown.  We want IPA's, Saisons and even Gluten Free.  There is a market and it is experiencing growth due to demand.  Want a good Craft Beer?  Hop on board and enjoy the bubbles!

Cheers

What is with that ring?

NY Times

I'm not a huge fan of reposting as I want to share my personal experience in my words.  However, this was a great recent article in the NY Times on Craft Beer in Bend, OR.

When the economic analysts write the final memo on how this Cascadian playground got its buzz back, they might not title it “How Beer Saved Bend.”

They will probably feel it is important to give appropriate credit to the tech start-ups, the stock market resurgence and the fact that before, during and after the recession, this place never stopped being a beautiful delusion of high desert, vivid skies and ski-perfect peaks. They will probably also note that full recovery was a long way off: unemployment was still in double digits, construction jobs were mostly gone, the real estate rush was not what it had been.

But anyone who cares more about a good story than an authoritatively accurate one will know better than to get knotted up in such nuance. Besides, who can economically analyze anything when one hand is holding a cold one and the other the handlebars?

“Oh, that’s Boneyard! That’s Boneyard!” yelled the big boys on the big bike, all 12 of them. “Pedal! Pedal! Pedal!”

They were aboard the Cycle Pub, which is just what it sounds like, and if it is possible to slur pedaling, they were doing it. Their destination was Boneyard Brewery, one of the more recent breakthrough breweries in this little city so gloriously deep in the cups that a genuine economic analyst really was prompted to pore over the data.

What it showed was this: While places like Seattle and Denver and Brooklyn and Delaware can claim impressive craft brewing scenes, and a weirdly large number of people nationwide now speak of hop fetishes and beer crushes, Bend is a per capita powerhouse. With 80,000 people surrounded by not much of anything — with no Interstate and the closest major city 160 miles away across steep and snowy mountains — beer has had room to make a difference.

And it has.

“Deschutes County breweries and brew pubs reported 450 jobs in 2010,” Carolyn B. Eagan, a state economist, wrote last fall. “That is 15 percent of all of the brewing employment in the state. For a county that had 4 percent (one of every 25 jobs) of the state’s total employment that year, one out of seven jobs in Oregon brewing is quite impressive.”

Just four or five years ago, Bend was a New West boomtown, one of the fastest growing municipalities in the United States, luring Californians and others rich with real estate equity to buy relatively inexpensive homes here. Then it all fell apart. The housing market collapsed, employment plummeted. People who had been wealthy enough to live off investments and rental income no longer could.

Beer endured.

“What we did for so long was just take advantage of the land we have,” Ms. Eagan said in an interview, noting that, although Bend is slowly growing, people are not flocking here the way they once were. “Well, you can’t export land, but you sure can export beer.”

Of course, much of the appeal of beer in Bend is being here to drink it. Eric King, the city manager, said that since last year the city has collected more in hotel taxes than surrounding Deschutes County, where people might stay to ski or bike.

“Now we’re sort of seeing this shift of people coming to Bend as an urban environment and coming here specifically for beer,” Mr. King said.

Gary Fish founded Deschutes Brewery with a single brew pub in 1988, a few booms and busts back. Bend was a struggling timber town, “a desolate place,” he recalled.

Over the years, Mr. Fish became increasingly involved with local business leaders, joining and then helping lead Chamber of Commerce and economic development groups. He also fostered what became something of a salon for aspiring brewers, who in turn went on to found breweries of their own.

Bend had become a Black Mountain, a Silicon Valley, a Napa. Spinoff ventures emerged: the Cycle Pub, which has expanded to other cities; an Ale Trail through town; Silipints, a company that makes silicone beer glasses.

“You have to thank Gary Fish for kind of creating that culture,” said Larry Sidor, a former brew master at Deschutes who left last year to open a brewery of his own this summer, CRUX Fermentation Project. “It’s been kind of a training ground, a spawning ground for the craft movement.”
Purists worry that the culture is being diluted, of course. Some even fear a “beer bubble.”

“They’re trying to make it Beer City, U.S.A.,” said Rob Leonig, a regular customer stopping at Boneyard on a Friday afternoon. “There’s always other breweries opening up, and I’m worried at some point somebody’s going to start making some junk.”

Then Mr. Leonig handed over his growler bottles for a refill.

“But I do love beer,” he said.

Wild at Heart.......

As simple as the title of the book was, it resonated with me, and still does.  As men, we desire to live the desires and dreams of our hearts from the time we were boys.  We want to live a life of risk and adventure.  We want to be a hero and we want to be a warrior.

“Don’t climb on that, don’t break anything, don’t be so aggressive, don’t be so noisy, don’t be so messy, don’t make such crazy risks. But God’s design–which he placed in boys as the picture of himself–is a resounding yes. Be fierce, be wild, be passionate.”  
John Eldredge, Wild at Heart

The stage was set by Tobin for Mancation 2012, Bend, Oregon.  I've planned and coordinated trips in the past, Seahawk games, Mariner games, skiing, etc., but haven't truly experienced that "Wild at Heart" mentality as I did this weekend since I was a young boy on camping trips.

Waking up in Central Oregon this past Saturday morning, that inner desire was purely evident.  The 11 men present wanted to be messy and noisy, we wanted to be aggressive and we would climb on that because we are men.  We were competitive, we shared stories, we traded stacks of poker chips and we drank great beer (and some of the "Root" version).

We lived what we often subdue!  We must allow ourselves to be the men we were designed to be and not the emasculated version society imposes on us, for at the end of the day, after mountain biking, fly fishing, rock climbing and poker, there wasn't a man in the room that wasn't on the phone with his wife and kids.

Live life, be a man!

Cheers

Glassy, early morning on the Deschutes

In Awe!!

Rock Climbing above Benham Falls

Kayaks on the Deschutes

Part of our "Motley Crue"

The Circle of Life

If you'd asked me a year ago what I'd be doing right now, I'm sure I would have guessed, living part-time in McCall, marketing craft beer and growing out my hair.  In fact, I would go so far as to say I'd probably have guessed driving an '86 Saab wagon and wearing a Kavu hat and a pair of Teva's.

Sure I would have and there's no sarcasm in that answer!  If I just throw in, the transition to a primarily organic diet, the addition of some Tibetan prayer flags and occasional documentary viewings, I've become a granola!?!

All joking aside, I didn't anticipate being here and I couldn't be happier.  As a young boy, I grew up in the outdoors, lived on the farm, set siphon tubes, rode horses, went camping and fishing, but somehow, I lost track of those simple things.  I got distracted by stuff!

Yes, I've written about it before, it's just interesting to revisit from time to time.  Life has a way of circling you back to your roots, to what shaped you, if you allow it too.

Cheers

Friday Post

I was unaware that my early morning post yesterday had not published pre drive to Bend.

I'll save it for Monday.  Have a great weekend!

The Road Goes On Forever.....

"Do you mind driving back and forth to McCall several times a week, isn't that like a hundred miles each way?"  I've been asked the question numerous times.

I worked in an office for seventeen years.  I sat behind a desk, entombed within the taupe walls of a commercial building and encased in glass.  I rolled back and forth across muted gray carpet in my high-back chair and stared at outdoor landscapes  on my computer screen.  What do you think?

The melting late season snow releases some of the most powerful whitewater in the Northwest, crashing and breaking over perfectly placed boulders.  Deer and moose graze on fresh sprouting greenery in shaded canyon openings.  A bald eagle dives at a calm spot in the river to return, clutching a rainbow trout.

Previously unaware that they traveled this far inland, 30 to 40 pelicans feed on fish at the base of the dam, just outside of Cascade.  A fox and her pups, play in a meadow in the cool evening air.  Two cedar adirondack chairs sit, side by side, on the sandy bank of the Payette, just before Smith's Ferry.

No, I'd rather be stuck in an office on the phone!

Cheers

On a Whim

Approaching life through the eyes of a child is just not something we as grown, working, providing adults do.  We have a status quo.  We can't be so spontaneous, dream big or go and play on a whim.

It was the first canoeing of the year and the kids couldn't wait until daylight the next day.  All common sense said, wait until tomorrow, it's too much work, it's too late to go down to the lake.  Staring up at me with big brown eyes, excited to do something they'd never done before, they said, "Dad, please let us go on the canoe, please."

Reluctant, and for no good reason, I obliged.  I went on a whim, I was spontaneous and we went canoeing at sunset.  Of course they/we had a great time, but as in most cases, the one who learned the valuable lesson, was me.

View life through the eyes of a child.  Approach life with wonder and amazement.  We lose that perfect awareness the older we get. 

Cheers 

Stumped

Do you ever shut down?  I'm there.  The words aren't flowing, the thoughts and the meaning that I know are there somewhere just aren't as apparent.  I'm just here this morning.  I've delayed this post about as long as I can, looking for the important topic.

Craft Beer just isn't going to do it today.  Maybe it's just a day to ponder, to reflect upon a culmination of the past weeks happenings, conversations or thoughts.

The reality is, it's not a bad thing.  I just haven't had this kind of writer's block before.  I am quite certain I've not shared every thought or experience that I have to share either.  So, here it is.  Todays post is this, "I'm stumped, but, I'm honest."

Cheers

Do wiener dogs have knees?

There are a handful of questions in life that just don't have a good answer.  It doesn't, however, mean that they aren't good questions.  A good question is designed to have us consider the idea.

Now, obviously, I'm not seriously asking if wiener dogs have knees and I will have a point to the topic.  So, the questions is posed.  What is it that you discuss?  Whether with a cup of coffee and a colleague, a few pints and some friends or the opposite end of a phone call, conversation and discussion is eminent.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people."

There is a progression, conversation generally has a tendency to go in the wrong direction.  None of us are above it.  Have you ever considered your general topic of discussion?  Does it lean in one direction or another?  Do you challenge yourself to engage in topics of edification and building up, in ideas to further your intellect?

Plain and simple, "People have a tendency to talk about people."  The "why" is a good question.   Remember, whomever is a gossip to you, will be a gossip of you!

Cheers, to the quest for ideas!

A Tribute to Mothers

Yes, it's sappy!  It Mother's Day!

This life affords us many things, both needs and wants, necessary and frivolous.  As we grow into adults our lives are shaped into the people we become by many avenues.  Yes, ultimately our choice as we act an react, but shaped in part due to strong influence.

Not entirely sure how to put this little tribute together for Mother's Day, I've jotted some thoughts down in a "poem-esque" (absolutely just created that word) fashion.

Mother;
Childhood nurturer,
bedtime story extraordinaire,
nurse of bruises and bumps,
teacher through giving of time.
Full-time home janitorial service,
short-order cook and
scheduling director.
Author of fun!
Friend,
listener,
consoler,
biggest fan!

Cheers to my beautiful wife who is a wonderful mom to our children and to my mother.  You've both had a strong influence my life.  Even if you don't like the title of my blog, mom!

Happy Mother's Day

Community

I just wasn't happy with todays piece.  I know what I wanted to say and when I read what I'd written, it didn't convey my thoughts appropriately.  Too many questions?  Not enough personal experience?  Maybe both.

The topic of community is the direction I wanted to go.  It's grown in both awareness and importance with me as I've spent time in McCall, Bend and in my hometown.  We hear of the word in such comments as, "community events" or "getting together to help out our community" but often it refers to the place we live.

Community is that group of people that surrounds us everyday, whether we think of it that way or not.  It's those that we allow, maybe unknowingly, to have an effect on our lives through day to day events.

I was drawn to the Craft Beer Industry as a whole due to this very topic.  I enjoy the sense of openness, sharing, collaboration, warm-welcome and candor that comes in this industry.  There is certainly a desire to make money and to support one's family, however, each knows that as a community working together, the industry as a whole is better.  That is what makes everyone in this industry successful.

Who is your community?

Cheers

Celebrate Artisans

Most of us have a nagging fear of the unknown.  We've been taught, subtly, only to reach for what we can grasp, what is traditional and what we see right in front of us, day after day.  Most of us are inherently risk adverse, we feel uneasy at the thought of branching out.

Our country was not built on comfort.  We were born of passion and vision.  We are risk takers armed with fortitude and determination.  It should be of no surprise that the Craft Beer Revolution is American born.

America's Craft Brewer's are artisans.  There is no canvas, no brushes or paint, the Craft Brewer's medium, is beer.  They purpose ingredients, grown on our soil in hopes of delivering their masterpiece.

Join in the opportunity to celebrate and support our local brewers, visionaries and the American product that is Craft Beer.  Celebrate the success of this grass roots movement.  Celebrate American Craft Beer Week.

Cheers

Idaho Craft Beer Schedule of Events

Payette Brewing Co. schedule of events for American Craft Beer Week

American Craft Beer Week, May 14th - 20th

Whisper

She leaned in and whispered quietly in my ear, "Daddy, I like you better now that you don't work so much."  The words of a child carry more weight than that of any Wall Street Executive, at least, they should.  Their words are true and they are unblemished by the many clutter we, as adults, fill our lives with everyday.

She doesn't care about my 401k, if we own or rent a house, if the lawn is a few days past due for a mowing or I have an important business call I need to take during family time.  She just wants my availability.  She wants time, all kids do, and up until now, she hadn't vocalized it so clearly.

It's not always as simple as Daddy, I want you or Mommy, I need you.  It may be a look or it may be the 7th time today they've asked you to play legos or go to the park.  Children desire to be with their parents, until, one day, they don't.  As the cliched statement goes, "that day will come all too soon."

This weekend, I didn't work so much.  I played, I listened, I enjoyed and I grew, yet again.  It's amazing what your children say if you allow them to whisper quietly in your ear!

Cheers

Short, sweet and to the point

"Few things give depth of meaning to life like that of a true friend.  Someone who knows you, better than you know yourself.  A friend can see a situation from the outside, in.  A friend can remove your barriers, observe your personal debris and still decide to stay.  Of thousands of acquaintances, you must work diligently to live a life with but a few friends."

- Aaron Fulcher

Yes, I've decided to tag that one myself.  It's unlike a majority of the topics I've written on and yet, potentially, one of the most impactful in my life.

Cheers, to those who know me and still return the call.

Cheers......to me, hah!

As is common with time at the cabin, I run into just that, time.  Looking back over 3 months of personal content that I have written, I am thankful, encouraged and excited.

First, I'm thankful for the opportunity that I have given myself.  Yes, you read that correctly.  I'm thankful that I allowed myself the opportunity for this journey, these experiences and a trip down the road less traveled.  And, just so it doesn't go without say, I'm thankful for my wife's consent.

Second, I'm encouraged that an average individual like myself can share my thoughts, the lessons I'm learning and a few of my favorite craft beers with each of you.  I'm encouraged as I read and see firsthand, the life changes and transformation that has taken place in my life in just a short period of time.  If this stubborn, bull-headed man can change, there's hope!

Finally, I'm excited for what's to come.  The upcoming jobs and projects confirm that I've made the right decision.  I'm excited that a passion can create a niche market and from that, spawn a new career.  I'm excited, that there is life outside of an office and behind a desk.

And, I'm excited…………to have a pipe and a pint of Black Happy, ABA from Salmon River.

Cheers to the most difficult decision I've made!  Hey, you've got to give yourself kudos every now and then.  Be your own biggest fan, just, not too big!

The Trade

As the cabin nears completion, it's changed, I've changed.  Sure, the changes are for the good of the modern world, but they lack the simplicity that called me here for the first month and a half of my departure from corporate life.

Candlelight has since been replaced by a fully operational light switch, the army cots in the bedrooms have been stowed to make room for the beds and an LED display now sits in the living room, staring back at me.

Tonight, I'll return to what welcomed me some 4 and 1/2 months ago.  The warm glow of the open fireplace and only the sound of the crackle fill the air.  No lights, just a candle, my computer and a pint of my old favorite, Salmon River Brewery, Chunder Stout.

It's been quite a journey thus far.  I've traded my suit and tie for a flannel shirt and ball cap.  My wing-tip shoes for a weathered pair of Redwing boots, my briefcase for a backpack and an office for the outdoors.  But most importantly, I've traded my distractions for my family and my stress for freedom.

Life is a gift and I have no regrets!

Cheers

The IPA

What is it that constitutes a great IPA?  In recent weeks and months I've had the opportunity to share a pint with friends and acquaintances and there has been one constent, a good 50% - 75% are in the dark about IPA's.  I'm not speaking of Black IPA's, I'm talking about a misconception of the India Pale Ale.

The most common thing I've heard is that IPA's are too hoppy.  Let's first understand that there are many different types of hops.  A hoppy beer can mean one of two things, first the hops used may be bittering hops, used specifically to give the beer a slightly bitter taste.  Second, hoppy can be defined as smooth and aromatic, giving a floral, grassy, citrusy or earthy flavor to a good beer.

If your making the jump from the macro breweries (Miller/Coors, etc.) to a micro-brewed craft beer the first thing you need to know is, unlike "the big boys", microbreweries tend to use high-quality hops and in much larger quantity as well.

Thoroughly confused and with no desire to try an IPA, I accidentally had a hoppy beer about three years ago.  I wandered into a tasting room in Denver, Colorado and tasted pure, smooth, aromatic, hoppy beer.  From that point on, I understood that quality makes all the difference in the world.  The IPA has become my achilles heal and so, I will share a list that I recommend for tasting.  Don't just poor a pint and try to power it down.  Sit down with a friend or colleague and "taste" the way a good hoppy beer should.

Great Divide, Hercules, Double IPA  (The Beer that introduced me to IPA's)
Odell Brewing, Myrcenary, Double IPA
GoodLife, Mountain Rescue Pale Ale
Ninkasi, Tricerahops
Boneyard, Hop Venom
Sockeye Brewery, Dagger Falls IPA
Bear Republic, Racer 5
Pyramid Breweries, Discord, Black IPA
Deschutes, Hop Henge IPA
Dogfish Head, 90 Minute IPA
Avery, India Pale Ale
Great Divide, Titan, IPA
Laurelwood, Workhorse IPA
Lagunitas, Hop Stoopid
AleSmith, IPA
Russian River, Pliney the Elder

Go enjoy Hoppy Hour!
Cheers

New Brewery in.........

Some important news of note for you craft beer enthusiasts as Meridian will get it's first locally owned and operated Microwbrewery.  Enter, Slanted Rock Brewery, which will be located at the High Desert Marketplace in Meridian.  Yes, the news is a little dated, however, I'm attempting to get more info than just reported by the Idaho Statesman.

Slanted Rock Brewery plans to open in the fall, they currently have plans only for a tasting room (no kitchen) and a 15 Barrel Brewing System, which will follow the same business model as both Payette Brewing Company and Crooked Fence Brewing.  This will certainly keep the valley's Food Trucks hopping, no pun intended.

The new brewery, owned by Bob and Alesa Lonseth will serve four staple brews initially.  A Kolsch, an IPA, Imperial IPA and a Scottish Red Ale will adorn the tap handles in the new Meridian Tasting Room.  Being natives of Meridian, it is reported that they both wanted to operate in their community and support their local economy.

Cheers to Bob and Alesa on their new venture and many successes in the future.

Life is precious

I didn't quite know what to write or how to write it.  It's something you just don't expect, especially at such a young age.

He was 33, he'd been married just under 3 years.  I'd only found out a couple months ago that he had cancer and it wasn't until yesterday morning that I made the time to read his journal on CaringBridge.com.  It was an arduous, painful 8-month journey, I messaged him, let him know I was thinking about him, shared a few jokes I remembered about him and at 3:45 pm yesterday, he left this world.

Cancer is a difficult thing to understand.  It's indiscriminate, it has no bias and it touches everyone of us in the form of friends and loved ones.  I hadn't seen him for years.  We went to school together, church, we were in Boy Scouts together and as life goes from there, we lost touch.

Life often has a way of catching us completely off balance, knocking us back and causing us to reflect and that's where I am.  Lost for words.  Yesterday, this world lost a giant of a man and an example to look up to and heaven was jealous of his homecoming.  I have tremendous respect for the life that he chose to live and it's evidenced by the many comments and tributes to him.

Life is a precious gift, live it to the fullest!

Cheers to Davin, eternal freedom

Davin Henrickson 1978 - 2012

Grand Teton Brewing Company

It's exciting to see an Idaho Brewery make news nationally and when CraftBeer.com reported on one of our own, I couldn't help but share.  Can't wait to try this one out on the patio this summer.


 VICTOR, ID - Grand Teton Brewing Company, known throughout the West for their exceptional craft brews, is proud to announce the release of Snarling Badger Berliner Weisse.  As part of its Cellar Reserve Series, Grand Teton Brewing Company has been brewing bold, flavorful beers and serving them from large, beautiful bottles since March 2004.  This May 15th, please welcome Snarling Badger to the 2012 Cellar Reserve Series. 


We’ve always intended these beers to be wonderful when fresh but also to be “cellarable”--to improve with months or even years of proper storage.  Over the years we’ve been happiest cellaring our strong malty beers. That’s made selecting styles for our summer Cellar Reserves a challenge, since the best beers for cellaring are not always the best beers to enjoy on a hot summer’s day.


In Berliner Weisse we think we’ve found the perfect style for our summer Cellar Reserve.  This north German wheat beer is traditionally brewed and released very fresh. It has a light body from the wheat and refreshingly tart acidity that make it a perfect summer thirst-quencher.  Its lemony tartness is provided by a secondary fermentation with Lactobacillus, the same microorganism that’s responsible for yogurt’s tang. That tartness increases and improves with age, so the people of Berlin are known to buy extra bottles to bury in their gardens for two years or more.


As usual with our Cellar Reserves, we’ve taken a traditional style and added our own twist. In this case we’ve tripled the strength over the traditional beer, which should increase its aging potential. For the primary fermentation we used traditional Bavarian hefeweizen yeast that produces soft notes of banana and clove. We followed that with Lactobacillus and six months in conditioning to create a complex fruity acidity that compliments the soft sweet malt tones and a unique ale that is both fulfilling and refreshing.


This summer time ale perfectly compliments spicy salmon filets from the grill and can wash down your savory BBQ pork ribs with ease.  Enjoy with a fresh arugula salad or salty french fries with blue cheese dressing for dipping.  For dessert try, grilled pineapple drizzled with honey.


Cheers


Article courtesy of CraftBeer.com

Tap Into Life

"I went to the woods because I wanted to live deliberately, I wanted to live deep and suck out all the marrow of life.  To put to rout all that was not life and not that I had come to die, discover that I had not lived."


Henry David Thoreau

I don't read poetry, I wasn't an english major, I didn't attend an ivy league school, in fact, I've got about a year left if I were to finish my Bachelor's Degree.  I don't earn a six-figure income, I don't drive a Jaguar, I don't wear a suit and tie and I don't live in a 4,000 square foot house.

I'm not a member of the Country Club, I don't have the latest fashions, I don't vacation in Europe and I don't have season tickets to any sporting events.  I don't have a "usual table", I'm not known by name at the nicest restaurants and I don't have an American Express Platinum.

I am a husband, a father, a son, a brother, a friend, a provider, a listener, a lover of adventure, a seeker of the extraordinary and a pursuer of life.  I bike, I ski, I snowshoe, I camp, I hike, I workout, I read, I work, I enjoy good food, I drink great beer and I challenge myself everyday.

What I am, is far more important than what I'm not and what I have, far outweighs what I sometimes think I need.

I've made the decision to, "Tap into life!"

Cheers

Welcome back.....

I have to admit, the unseasonably warm weather created quite the welcome back to the cabin.  It's a little hard for me to believe, but it's been just over a month since I was last here.  The snow is now gone, I've missed a majority of the muddy season and things are beginning to turn green.

Easing open the front door, I still feel as though I'm stepping back in time.  No phone, no internet and no television.  I have to be honest, I've missed, not having the opportunity for the distraction.  A few pieces of firewood remain, chopped and ready to warm the cabin from the cool evening and brisk morning.

For now, I'll enjoy the sunshine in my shirt sleeves on the deck, a folding chair, a cold beer and a view of the lake in the distance.  While I'm already beginning to write about refreshing summer brews as the temps push the 90 degree mark in the valley, I'll enjoy the 20 degree difference with one of my last bottles of Odell, Mountain Standard a more than suitable Black IPA for spring.

With lots of work ahead, I'm reminded of all the work that's been accomplished here.  The change and transformation that has taken place.  Just like the cabin, I too have experienced transformation and just like the sunshine now on the deck, I have a new season in my life to look forward to.

Cheers

Front porchin' it with a brew.  '70's image style

Welcome back, '70's image style

Summer Beer List

Here it is, my unofficial, unrated list of summer refreshment.  As the temps rise and you find yourselves outdoors more and more in the coming months, there will arise a need for a crisp, ice cold pick me up.

Fire up the BBQ with a cedar planked salmon, squeeze a lime on those fish tacos or drizzle some balsamic vinaigrette on that grilled chicken salad.  Each of these ice cold brews should pair nicely with summer's feasts.

Deschutes, Twilight Summer Ale
Samuel Adams, Light
Alaskan, Summer Kolsch-Style Ale
Anchor Brewing Company, Summer Beer
Southern Tier, HopSun Summer Wheat Beer
Dogfish Head, Aprihop
Odell, Easy Street Wheat
Stella Artois
Pyramid Brewing, Apricot Ale
Great Divide Brewing, Wild Raspberry Ale
Dogfish Head, Festina Peche
Lagunitas, IPA

So hop on the bike, mow the lawn, float the river or go for a hike and enjoy working your way through this list.

Cheers