livevigorously

Alfie, the cat, performs rollovers to inspire us

December 5, 2016December 14, 2016livevigorously

Most people wouldn’t believe that it’s possible to teach a cat to roll over upon polite request, but it is. And it’s easier than you might think though it does take some patience and persistence. Isn’t that true of most of the goals and dreams that elude us? We get so intimidated by them sometimes, we can’t even visualize them – imagine they are possible. But they are possible, we just have to start rolling over in the right direction and keep the momentum going.

Ok, I know this post is a bit off topic, but Alfie keeps bugging me to get into my blog, chanting about how everyone knows people love cat videos and how he’ll go viral. I’m humoring him so hopefully you’ll humor me too.

How are you rolling toward your dreams? (And Alfie wants to know if you like his video.)

Sun Valley, ID eatery: Warfield for foodies

December 1, 2016December 5, 2016livevigorously

Executive Chef, Sean Temple was on his way out after a long day behind the range when he walked by the bar and caught a snippet of our conversation with a local. We were chatting about who had the best food in the area. Sean joined the conversation and suggested we stay for a bite. The local had never dined there so he couldn’t weigh in. And honestly, we were a bit skeptical as the Warfield is a distillery, brewery, and restaurant…

These boots weren’t made for hiking

November 29, 2016livevigorously

To be fair, I’m not sure how many miles I have on these Hi-Tec day hikers. But one thing’s clear, there’s been way too many. My last trip to Idaho and Montana really did them in. Truth be told, I can be a bit of a bargain shopper so these probably came from Big 5 a couple of years ago…Looks like I got what I paid for. Next up, I’ve got a pair of Salomon day hikers to try. I’ll let you know how they do.

What’s your favorite pair of tried and true hiking boots?

Boise River Greenbelt: A shining example of riverbank restoration

November 28, 2016December 28, 2017livevigorously

Alas, every trip must come to its end. Enjoyed Sun Valley so much, I opted for another day there, which left me with only an hour or so to explore Boise before catching my flight. I opted for a leisurely ride along the Boise River Greenbelt. For a trip that started in Spokane with a bike ride, it seemed fitting to conclude with one in Boise. Read more →

Sun Valley, ID: Pioneer Cabin Hike

November 22, 2016March 19, 2018livevigorously

Tremendous hike in Sun Valley. Rewarding views, great workout, super cool cabin.

Distance: 8.5 miles Rating: Difficult Elevation gain: ~2,550 ft

Took the steady climbing Pioneer Cabin trail #122 up and descended the loop via the Long Gulch trail #123. Minus the snow and ice on the top and down the backside that we encountered, this would be a fantastic trail run. The terrain on 122 is pine needle smooth as you traverse 23 switchbacks through an old growth forest with glimpses of the Pioneer, Smoky, and Sawtooth Mountains through the trees. As you continue up into high alpine meadow, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views .

But you’re not quite there yet. Just one more push and a panorama of peaks opens up and a rustic cabin welcomes you.

Pioneer Cabin was built by Sun Valley Company in the 1930’s to encourage Alpine skiing. (If I’d known the cabin was open, I would have made it an overnighter.) Underneath the snow, emblazoned on the roof greeting all those who ascend to its heights is its signature quote “The Higher You Get, The Higher You Get.”

Unlike trail#122, 123 is a bit tortuous, very rocky the last 2 miles or so. Not to mention all the snow we encountered on that trail, but it was all so worth it! This hike makes most people’s list for the top ten in Sun Valley. It’s certainly tops with me.