Today was another PT session. I had been given stretch bands and exercises that I have been doing 2X a day for 2 months since I arrived at Bend for PT. The 2 repaired tendons and their associated muscles are still not working. There is little difference after 2 months of exercise. Elbow Dave, the PT, is concerned about what’s not working. He is pursuing an ultra sound exam on my shoulder while being used which will reveal in real time what the muscle activity there is. Portland town. The muscles just are not responding. I am passed the critical point of healing the repaired tendons. Concern is how will the shoulder hold up under a fall? I will chose to start riding again w/ caution. Falling is an inherent risk of mountain biking but then life is filled w/ risks. I would like my right arm to work per design.
I have been riding a loop mixed w/ pavement and dirt. There are several tech moves on the dirt that I am not comfortable with that I walk. Protection. Sure is enjoyable to dance on the dirt w/ gravity as my engine. 15 miles and about 1 hr 15 min ride. I’m coming back.
There are 3 contiguous wildernesses on the Cascade crest: 3 Sisters, MT Washington, and MT Jefferson. The latter was appealing. I planned a 2 day backpack route. Then I started researching trail conditions: A small forest fire closed one area and several of the trails are not maintained. Cancel that plan. Ah, the 3 Sisters wilderness: not burning and the claim that 70% of the trails are cleared. I planned a route which will pick up a piece of the PCT. I head out tomorrow. Two nights of sleeping on my new NeoAir All Season Thermorest.
Night time temps are chilly: down blanket cold. I have started the furnace in the mornings before leaving bed warmth. Furnace starts and runs per design.
Bend is built on the banks of the Deschutes River. There is quite a float business during the warm times of renting flotation devices and shuttles. I notice an abundance of paddle board roof rack attachments on rigs some w/ boards aboard. Bend is populated w/ diverse athletes. Lots of bike racks empty and full abound. Phil’s TH is packed even on weekdays. Dusty trails. Today forest fire smoke hazes the sun.
Girls in their summer dresses.