After spending three hours shoveling 9.5 inches of snow, it’s official summer is over. I came inside, dried off, and immediately threw my bike on the trainer. Look out, Zwift… off-season training has officially begun.

Today’s the day – Black Friday – and I just locked in my spot for the 2026 Seeds N Stone Roubaix rravel race in Waterman, IL. After taking fourth past year, I’m coming back with a hunger and aiming for the podium. Off-season training has already started, and over the next six months it’s all gas. Let see what happens in May.

Today, we faced one of the hardest moments any pet owner can experience: we had to say goodbye to Captain. For six months, we managed his brain tumor with medication, patience, and a whole lot of love, but yesterday his journey came to an end. Even knowing this day was coming didn’t make it any easier. Captain was family, 13 great years of dog walks and belly rubs.

I just tore apart the bottom bracket on my BMX bike to install a new sprocket 🔧😅

Gotta give a shoutout to 25-year-old Brad and Corey for greasing those threads and splines when we initially put it together all those years ago — you guys made life way easier for 53-year-old me today!

I recently ordered an Old Bones elbow brace, and after wearing it for the past 48 hours, my arm hasn’t felt this good since my crash at the Coon Fork Gravel Race back in August. After months of soreness and stiffness, this brace has been a game-changer—finally giving my arm the support it’s needed to feel normal again. It’s amazing how the right gear can make all the difference in recovery and getting back to doing what you love.

We’re so excited to introduce the newest addition to our family—Eddie, a spirited two-year-old Cairn Terrier!

We recently adopted this little guy from MADACC (Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission), and he’s already stolen our hearts (and a few socks). Eddie’s full of energy, personality, and that classic terrier curiosity that keeps us on our toes.

It didn’t take long for him to make himself right at home. Whether he’s chasing Captain around the living room or curling up for a nap after a long walk, Eddie fits perfectly into the Hengen household.

Welcome home, Eddie—you’re already part of the pack! 

We happened to be in La Crosse, WI this week on National Vegetarian Day, so we decided to celebrate with a visit to Love Child. If you ever find yourself in the area and craving a great meal, stop by and ask for their vegetarian/vegan options. They won’t disappoint!

NL central champs for the third straight year!

10/2019 – 09/2025

We only got to spend six short years with Cheddar, but he gave us a lifetime of memories. Miss you, buddy.

It was 20 years ago today that Maxine and I went on our first date. IFLY!