find yourself

The last time I found myself on two wheels on a island named Hornby was 1994. Driven by a teenagers' sense of adventure and looking to get lost in a haze of girls, bikes, beer and hash. Mission accomplished, I was convinced I had lived the ultimate Hornby experience. Little did I know, some 18 years later I would revisit this island oasis, this time with a different outlook. A lot changes in 18 years, the once shoulder length haired, squinty eyed, stoner has blossomed into a somewhat responsible, SOBER, loving father of two amazing children, eyes wide open. My love for mountain biking is stronger now than it ever was in the '90's and what better place to find yourself than this remarkable island. But this time it wasn't about me, it was about us. I was so proud of my 4 1/2 year old son as he peddled his way over roots, sticks, rocks and calmy stopped and pulled over to the side to safely let the odd vehicle pass on by. The whole time his 10 year old sister leading the way on the 4 km ride from Tribune Bay to Whaling Station Bay. Our riding was cut short by a blackberry thorn that punctured Haileys' tire, so we got to experience the fine art of hitchin' back to the Co-Op! Luckily, we got a ride back to our truck in no time and the tube was replaced at the local bike shop (fantastic little store!). We had alot of fun in a short amount of time and I look forward to many more trips, hopefully mom can tag along with us next time. I would also love to get over there for a dedicated day or two of mountain biking, this time I want to remember a bit more than '94!