Author Archives: Craig
Machine Guns! »
Posted on September 20, 2011Alex and I have had a tradition of going to the range on Father’s Day. We start by shooting trap with our shotguns and then head over to the rifle/pistol range where we try out a different rental gun. Over the years, we’ve shot numerous handguns, rifles and an M-16. All were great fun.
This year, we were treated to a whole new experience as Larry, from the Family Shooting Center at Cherry Creek State Park, had four machine guns set up on a special range. Needless to say, we were pretty pumped up with excitement and anticipation. As you’ll see on the video, the experience lived up to our expectations. Larry was great with explaining how to operate them as well as gave us the history on each weapon. While not inexpensive, the $75 gave us a taste of what it’s like to fire one. Pure power!
Our Youngest Adventure Son! »
Posted on September 15, 2011Adventure Dad Summer Contest:
It’s Never Too Early to Hit the Trails and Explore Europe!
As a professional mountain biker and adventure racer, I look forward to the days when I can spend time engaging in serious athletic activities with my son, Wyatt. I realized this summer, however, that it’s never too early to begin the adventure!
Wyatt, who was born January 2nd of this year, Amy, and I had an incredible summer together. We spent three weeks in Europe, and Wyatt served on the support crew for a nine hour mountain bike race in France and an eleven hour mountain bike race in Austria. While I raced, Wyatt and Amy drove from point to point to hand me water bottles and food. He’s a real trooper, and seeing him along the way definitely gave me an extra boost! Here, Wyatt grabs a crucial mid-race snack at one of the mountain biking events:
Wyatt has stamps from five countries (Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Switzerland) in his passport, and it was a joy to be able to share our love of traveling with him. He also has two “grandmothers” in France and one in Italy, who have all sung him songs, played games with him, and provided some extra love along the way.
When we returned home, Wyatt attended his first Leadville 100 event, once again as a member of the support crew while I rode in the race. I began crewing at the Leadville 100 run when my dad raced it for the first time when I was six, and we have been treating these races a family get-togethers since then. This was our first three-generation Leadville event, and I hope it is the first of many!
Wyatt, Grandpa, and Dad hung out after the Leadville 100 MTB race. Wyatt was still fresh, but dad was a bit dusty!
The following snapshots describe the summer highlights of my summer with Wyatt.
- Day one of our European adventure, walking around Frankfurt: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2FxIghuKHg
- Attending two stages, the infamous l’Alpe d’Huez and the Time Trial, of Le Tour de France with Wyatt was absolutely amazing. Most people wait a lifetime and never get to meet El Diablo (you know, the famous Devil guy who’s always on TV), and Wyatt got to shake his hand before he even knew what he was doing. Here, we cheer for Colorado rider Tom Danielson, who finished 9th at the Tour: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTmjflWtJaQ
- Watching the top pro road bikers in the world tackle the same roads Wyatt (in his trailer) and I ride for training was pretty neat. Here we are at the USA Pro Cycling Challenge on Lookout Mountain:
- While Wyatt and Amy followed along online, I competed in a four day adventure race in Wulong, China. My teammates and I ran, biked, climbed, canyoneered, rafted, carried fruit, and trudged through mud in an incredible area. Here’s a video I took of the Opening Ceremony that I look forward to sharing with Wyatt when he’s older: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MaWXe8NrzI
- Wyatt got his first podium appearance at the Teva Mountain Games:
Wyatt and I look forward to a lifetime of adventurous memories together. He’s definitely got the spirit, the attitude, and the flexibility, and I think we’re in for some good times!
Thanks for reading,
Travis and Wyatt Macy
Beginning Family Adventures – Part 2 »
Posted on September 8, 2011Are you looking to take your kids on their first camping experience? Just an hour from Denver is Al’s Pits at Geneva Creek Park just at the start of Guanella Pass. They have a stocked trout pond where the fish bite on everything and you pay by the inch (all the equipment is available to rent), as well as, created camp sites right on the stream. They have a large community shelter with tables and a fire ring as well as nice bathrooms. Best of all, they have Al’s pit b-b-q on site where they will even cook your freshly caught trout! The owners are an older couple, Al and Liz, who explained to us their dream of creating this unique, all inclusive space. Just bring your tent and warm jackets for those cool mountain evenings.
Honoring Our Heros »
Posted on September 11, 2011I’D WANT SOMEONE TO COME IN AFTER MY KIDS…THAT’S WHY I DO IT.
New York Fire Department Museum
On this 10th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy, it’s poignant to reflect upon how honoring our firefighters, police officers and military service personnel goes hand in hand with value based fathering and enjoying adventures together. Over the years, I’ve tried to instill respect and appreciation for our heroes in my son’s heart and soul.
My first memory of doing so occurred when Alex was about 5. Like most young boys, Alex was obsessed with firefighters. Many a toy truck and fire fighting uniforms and equipment were part of play time. His 5th birthday party in fact, included a trip to the local firehouse where we got to see the men in action taking off for a call. It was thrilling for the boys and myself to see them spring into action.
Later that year, a young fireman lost his life while on a rescue. The streets of Denver were lined with people as a long procession of fire fighting vehicles moved down the street close to our house. Dressed in all his equipment, I’ll never forget him standing at attention and saluting as they passed by.
Over the years, we honored a fallen police officer and on one occasion, had the privilege of meeting and then paying for the meals of two young graduates from the Air Force Academy who were getting ready to be deployed. We also had many opportunities to talk about the important role that these men and women play in our lives.
Following 9/11, I helped him and a friend bake and decorate a cake with blueberries and strawberries in the pattern of an American flag. It was hard to hold back the tears as we took the cake and a thank you card over to that same firehouse and present it to our heroes.
On a professional level, I’ve had the unpleasant task of having to explain a variety of traumas to young, school children. I’ll never forget 10 years ago this day, when a young first grade girl said: “Why would anyone want to kill firemen and policemen Mr. Knippenberg? They are heroes”. How profoundly meaningful and touching was this comment from a sensitive 10 year old.
May this day of remembrance, give you the opportunity to reflect upon duty and honor with your children. These are the fathers and mothers who would put their lives on the line for your children.
Post Script
Alex and I had planned on being at the summit of Longs Peak for sunrise this morning in honor of 9/11. Unfortunately, a stomach bug forced us off the mountain at 3 am. While driving back to Denver, I was treated to the comforting image of my sleeping son next to me. May we all be thankful for those who allow our children to sleep in peace.
Beginning Family Adventures »
Posted on September 8, 2011This past month, we did a short family reunion trip at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado. While it wasn’t as extreme as the adventures we typically like, I was amazed at the numbering of offerings which they have that are perfect for introducing younger children to the great outdoors. In addition to amazing hiking trails for all abilities, they have a stocked fishing pond, horseback riding, all sorts of family sports and games, and plenty of indoor activities for when the weather is foul. They have all sorts of sleeping accommodations including lodge rooms, beautiful homes and smaller cabins spaced nicely in the woods. Most impressive was the rental fire rings available in the evening. A nice big pit with wood stools, firewood and even s’more fixings!
Outdoor Parents, Outdoor Kids »
Posted on September 7, 2011Are you a dad with younger children who is wondering how you and your wife can maintain your active outdoor lifestyle and include your kids in the fun? If so, check out Eugene Buchanan’s new book, Outdoor Parents, Outdoor Kids: A Guide to Getting Your Kids Active in the Great Outdoors. A fun and fast read, Buchanan covers all sorts of outdoor sports including camping, hiking, paddling, bicycling, fishing and climbing. He’s got lots of practical tips and covers each section from the beginner to the more advance level. At the end of the book, he has lots of great facts about our children and their need for activity as well as tons of on-line resources. Perhaps my favorite part of the book was reading the many quotes he has at the start of each chapter. Here is a sampling of my favorites:
“If we want children to flourish, to become truly empowered, then let us allow them to love the earth before we ask them to save it.” David Sobel, Beyond Ecophobia
“Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride.” John F. Kennedy
“Snow and adolescence are the only problems that disappear if you ignore them long enough.” Earl Wilson
“One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.” William Shakespeare
“Backpacking: an extended form of hiking in which people carry double the amount of gear that they need for half the distance they planned to go in twice the time it should take.” Unknown
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” Albert Einstein
Family Volunteer Opportunities »
Posted on July 29, 2011Would you like you and your family to get more involved with volunteering but don’t know how to get started? Perhaps you worry about the time commitment. Fortunately, the Family Volunteer Program through Volunteers of America has the answer. This monthly project program makes fitting volunteering into busy family life easy. Their activities cover a variety of talents and interests from gardening at a nursing home to delivering meals to creating craft projects.
According to Youth Service America, kids who volunteer just one hour a week are 50% less likely to abuse drugs, alcohol and cigarettes. When they donate their time with their parents, they are twice as likely to continue volunteering as adults. Do you need any other reasons to get involved!
To learn more about the program in Colorado, contact Rachel Dolgin at 303-297-0408 X 13310 or rdolgin@voacolorado.org. Nationally, check out Doing Good Together, http://www.doinggoodtogether.org/
Coloradodads.org »
Posted on July 24, 2011I recently came across a website dedicated to dad’s called coloradodad.org http://www.coloradodads.com/. Run under the Colorado Department of Human Services, the site has information on fatherhood programs and area events/activities for dads/mentors and kids. They have an awards program called: Be There for Your Kids. They also have a Help Line for dads where you can get all sorts of help with your fathering and kid related issues.
A Son’s First Attempt »
Posted on July 29, 2011Several weeks ago, Alex and I climbed Mt. Shavano in south central Colorado. Over 14,229 feet, the trail gains 4,600 feet in 4 miles. It’s pretty much up for a very long time. As I lagged behind Alex and Utah, I met a father and son from Kansas who were resting on the trail at 13,000 feet. I complimented the boy as he was younger than most kids you’ll ever meet on a 14’er. I was even more astonished when I heard he was from the flatlands of Kansas. While they had decided to call it quits for the day, it was great seeing a father process the decision with his son. The two of them just sitting together on a rock, enjoying the view and each other.
Last summer some friends and I decided to head west to Colorado and climb a 14er together—Mt. Elbert. We had such a good time that we decided to try it again this summer. My son Bryson, all of 8 years old, boldly decided to join us. So on July 14-16, 2011, we drove west from Wichita to Salida, and ascended Mt. Shavano. Setting up a base camp at 9,800 feet of Friday, we awoke at 3am to begin our climb. While most of the group made the peak, and some went on to tag Tabegauche Peak, Bryson and Dad took a much slower ascent, but got to stop and chat with Craig before we petered out at 13,000 feet at the angel of Shavano.
While we didn’t get Bryson to the peak on his first effort, we had a great time, and made our way back to the trailhead in time to enjoy a rib eye steak in Salida. Next summer we will certainly try again, and a gift card to REI would sure help fund the trip!
Monte & Bryson Evans
Wichita, KS
A Family Rafting Adventure! »
Posted on July 23, 2011Our family recently got together for our semi-annual reunion and to celebrate our mom’s 85th b-day. While we go to different locations around the country (since we are spread out from the south to the west coast), this year’s trip took us to Crested Butte, Colorado. One of the highlights of the trip was rafting down the Taylor River. The large snowfall this year made for a huge run off in the rivers so we were treated to a spectacular Class III adventure. While Grandma wanted to join us, she decided not to when the guide told her there would be a good chance of falling in and if that wasn’t enough the water temperature (around 36 degrees) would probably cause a heart attack. She decided to back out at that point followed us down the river in a car. It was a good call in retrospect. As you’ll see in the video, one of the rafts got hung up on a rock and later flipped three of our family members into the water. Make sure to check out the last minute or two of the clip where both my brother and I decided to try “bull riding” on the front of the raft. What a laugh!