Bedrock & Paradox

I dream of a hard and brutal mysticism in which the naked self merges with a non-human world and yet somehow survives still intact, individual, separate. Paradox and bedrock.

Three websites worth your attention

But first: big news! The best beer made in Missoula is once again at large.

One more reason this is the best time of year.

The first site I really enjoy, that many may not be aware of, is Queen Stage, a cycling photo blog.  It is rather nerdy (a theme, as you’ll shortly see), and assumes a more than pedestrian knowledge of pro cycling, but the mix of whimsy and dead-serious passion is one I find truly marvelous.

The second site celebrates nerd-dom in a sublime way.  No irony or hipsterism is found at Hyperbole and a Half, what so ever.  Dani gets credit for bringing this into my life.  Thanks Dani!!  Right now this post is closest to my heart and life situation, so I recommend you start there.

The third site is bar none the best outdoor gear site on the web.  It beats the rest by miles and miles.  I’ve been a huge fan of Erin McKittrick and Brentwood Higman since long before the 4000 mile Seattle to Unimak trek, and while the original aktrekking site does provide a window into a wilderness travel mindset few modern days can even grasp, the highest instantiation of their genius remains Beyond Spec.  The opening photo is great, but the gear reviews are like looking at Rembrandts or reading Hemingways best short stories: they prompt musings on the closing of the genre.

Have a good night.

DaveC

4 responses to “Three websites worth your attention”

  1. Danni Avatar
    Danni

    I'm glad you love that site too. I found it through someone else. Can't wait to check the gear site. I'm already salivating. . .

    Reply
  2. Roman Dial Avatar
    Roman Dial

    Beyond spec is a collaboration of Andrew Matyox (of Alpacka) with Hig, more than a Hig and Erin Production, if I heard correctly.

    Reply
  3. Roman Dial Avatar
    Roman Dial

    That's "Andrew Mattox" who went to college at Carlton with Hig and Erin and Luc Mehl, too. Gordy Vernon is an alum., as well. That's a lot of packrafting expertise originating from a little private college that specializes on geology.

    Reply
  4. Dave Avatar
    Dave

    It's a funny coincidence, that so many adventurers went to a college in Southern MN. Luc and I talked about it, as my alma mater Grinnell was his other choice for undergrad. Iowa gravel roads is what got me serious about cycling, and I did my hardest climbs in Iowa (on crags that have likely sinced me reclaimed by moss and river mud), so maybe there's something too it. Still glad to live not there.

    Reply

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