2013-01-29

Cheating damages inspiration and human potential.

Over at Cold Thistle Dane has reposted a piece by Mark Twight on the impact of cheating. It specifically concerns the use of supplemental oxygen in mountaineering, but applies to all aspects of life.

2013-01-23

micro, review, gear

I reviewed the Hill People Gear Tarahumara on ITS Tactical.

As with the Kit Bag, my opinion of the Hill People Gear Tarahumara is high. It stands strong on its own, and has proved a versatile addition to a pack system.

2013-01-13

micro, bicycle

I've replaced my Scott-Mathauser brake pads.

The salmon compound of the Scott-Mathauser shoes is excellent, but I think the design of the Kool Stop pads will be superior in inclement conditions. They offer dual compound pads that include both the salmon compound and a softer black compound to reduce squealing. I went with Mountain Pads in the rear and Dura Road Pads up front.

2013-01-05

micro, linux

Freedom for users, not for software.

Mako has published a short essay in which he argues in favor of a conceptual shift, referring to “free users” rather than “free software”. It draws attention to the larger societal impact of proprietary software, and points out that software that is free-as-in-freedom can still create dependent and vulnerable users when used as a 3rd party service in the cloud.

2013-01-02

micro, books

Currently reading Hardcore Troubadour by Lauren St John.

The Life and Near Death of Steve Earle, a biography of Steve Earle, is a well written account of a great musician.

2013-01-01

micro, bicycle, gear, blogroll

While Out Riding is one of the best bicycle touring blogs around.

Cass Gilbert has been touring regularly for more than a decade. He shares his writing and photography on his blog. This winter he is taking a break in New Mexico, but, if you’re new to his blog, the archives contain much of note. Just recently he posted a gear list for a short trip.

2012-12-31

admin, micro

I try to avoid being a topic-specific blog.

I don’t want this to be a blog that is only about backpacking, or bikes, or Linux. I want to cover all of my interests – which range widely – in a way that others don’t (or can’t). I dislike it when other blogs publish long posts that only regurgitate what others wrote, or simply latch onto a popular topic without adding anything new to the discussion. I only began blogging again in September, which makes for a small selection of posts in this year’s archives to evaluate. Looking back, I’m pleased with the diversity of topics covered.