Yeah; the downed trees really freak me out. A horseback rider got killed last month in Brown County when a tree fell on her. That hit a little too close to home. We rode last week at the park that had gotten a fair amount of rain the day and night before. It was still soupy in parts that morning, but as the trail dried, it was nice to ride on something slightly tacky. The trails in Brown County are crazy dry and crazy fast at the moment.

I'd really glad you're taking a renewed shine to mtbing. I recall you saying you didn't really enjoy it earlier in the summer. Having gotten into it myself over the past two summers, I can say that it's quickly become my favorite thing to do on two wheels. I'm having a blast. I still have lots to learn and will consider the clinic next year. Unless and until I learn to consistently get my front wheel up, I'll be pegged as a beginner. That's not an issue, but I really need to tackle that skill. It's my biggest mental block at the moment.