What a perfect day for 'cross...it was snowing. The ground was soft...so, we did an appropriately good job of tearing up the turf at the park. Things were muddy, leafy, sloppy, slow, and just awesome. When I think of 'cross I think of this weather.
Sure, it's an hour (45 minutes for us B's) of misery. And, I hate it the whole time I'm out there...but, as soon as it's all done and I look around at all my friends covered in mud...I just think how freakin' cool it is. I could have spent the afternoon on the couch (and still might). But, it wouldn't have been nearly as much fun!
16 November 2008
10 November 2008
07 November 2008
Weeks...
As usual, I've been lazy with my blog. And, as usual, MC was around to give me the kick in the ass I deserve. So, MC, this one's for you.
What to discuss, what to discuss...
Riding? Man, I'd love to talk it up about all my cool adventures...but, I haven't really had any. Haven't ridden much at all. I did a nice ride with MC and J2 last Thursday. Then, I did the KissCross on Sunday. And, somehow, I managed to crash my brains out. Ripped a good chunk of my bar tape off, shredded the shoulder of my jersey, shredded my shoulder, my forearm, my knee, bruised my hip, and shoulder, bled a lot, and left some dandy marks on my helmet. Other than that...it was a ton of fun!
How about work? Well, that seems like a reasonable topic. Why? Because it's just about all I've been doing lately. I don't know...I guess that is good and bad. It's nice to have a mission...it's nice to be recognized for being good at your job...it's nice to have people rely on you. On the other hand...that means more responsibility, more work, higher expectations, more travel, more unpleasant tasks, and more chances to fail. I guess the whole thing makes me tired...I sort of can't figure out how I feel about the whole thing. And, more importantly, WHY I feel anything at all about it. Feeling isn't what I do...so, where did that come from? Is this what it feels like to be an a grown-up?
It's been a weird trip this past couple months. I've made some new friends at work...and, because of that I feel like I have a stronger sense of purpose professionally. I've made a lot of new friends through JDRF...many of whom I feel really close with...and, the combination of the charitable portion, the team portion, and the physical demands of that group have left a real impression on me. Feels like I'm a little bit different person now than I was a few months ago. The weirdness of that is that I'm not exactly sure I could pin down what has changed. I just know it all feels different...and, the fact that I'm considering how it "feels" is different in its own right.
Maybe I'm just suffering some lingering fatigue from the end of the cycling season. I didn't go out and become a world champion or anything...but, I sure made a hell of a lot of progress compared with the previous year. And, maybe I'm still suffering from a lingering sadness that the whole Death Valley thing is done. It was just so much bigger, better, hotter, more difficult and more emotional than I was expecting. Perhaps that bit of sadness I was carrying with me as I got on the bus to go home is still hanging around.
Then again, it's been a long while since I've been so excited about what is happening at work. I have a great team in my store...and, I've been given some degree of a "hall pass" as my friend Erin called it...so, I've been able to start doing some team building outside of my own store. This is more than just the trouble shooting I've done in the past. This is a chance to leave my fingerprints in a more lasting way on the store, the business, and the lives of the employees I work with. It's tough not to get excited about that.
This is an interesting time for me...I hope I feel this positive in January when all the real change will be coming.
What to discuss, what to discuss...
Riding? Man, I'd love to talk it up about all my cool adventures...but, I haven't really had any. Haven't ridden much at all. I did a nice ride with MC and J2 last Thursday. Then, I did the KissCross on Sunday. And, somehow, I managed to crash my brains out. Ripped a good chunk of my bar tape off, shredded the shoulder of my jersey, shredded my shoulder, my forearm, my knee, bruised my hip, and shoulder, bled a lot, and left some dandy marks on my helmet. Other than that...it was a ton of fun!
How about work? Well, that seems like a reasonable topic. Why? Because it's just about all I've been doing lately. I don't know...I guess that is good and bad. It's nice to have a mission...it's nice to be recognized for being good at your job...it's nice to have people rely on you. On the other hand...that means more responsibility, more work, higher expectations, more travel, more unpleasant tasks, and more chances to fail. I guess the whole thing makes me tired...I sort of can't figure out how I feel about the whole thing. And, more importantly, WHY I feel anything at all about it. Feeling isn't what I do...so, where did that come from? Is this what it feels like to be an a grown-up?
It's been a weird trip this past couple months. I've made some new friends at work...and, because of that I feel like I have a stronger sense of purpose professionally. I've made a lot of new friends through JDRF...many of whom I feel really close with...and, the combination of the charitable portion, the team portion, and the physical demands of that group have left a real impression on me. Feels like I'm a little bit different person now than I was a few months ago. The weirdness of that is that I'm not exactly sure I could pin down what has changed. I just know it all feels different...and, the fact that I'm considering how it "feels" is different in its own right.
Maybe I'm just suffering some lingering fatigue from the end of the cycling season. I didn't go out and become a world champion or anything...but, I sure made a hell of a lot of progress compared with the previous year. And, maybe I'm still suffering from a lingering sadness that the whole Death Valley thing is done. It was just so much bigger, better, hotter, more difficult and more emotional than I was expecting. Perhaps that bit of sadness I was carrying with me as I got on the bus to go home is still hanging around.
Then again, it's been a long while since I've been so excited about what is happening at work. I have a great team in my store...and, I've been given some degree of a "hall pass" as my friend Erin called it...so, I've been able to start doing some team building outside of my own store. This is more than just the trouble shooting I've done in the past. This is a chance to leave my fingerprints in a more lasting way on the store, the business, and the lives of the employees I work with. It's tough not to get excited about that.
This is an interesting time for me...I hope I feel this positive in January when all the real change will be coming.
21 October 2008
A Lost Day
Not sure how I feel today. Recovery has been tougher than I thought it would be. Jet lag, the ride, the heat, the sense that the whole thing is done...I'm not sure what is causing it.
Haven't eaten much since Saturday night. Ate almost nothing on Sunday...a biscuit for breakfast, shared a bag of snack mix with Spooner on the plane, and had some subway on Sunday night.
No breafast, no lunch on Monday...went out to dinner with family on Monday evening to Carrabas (a place where I can generally be counted upon to stuff myself!) and ate almost nothing. Half a bowl of soup and some bread. Brought my pasta home.
Still not hungry today...no food yet. I figure I've eaten about 1000 calories since Sunday morning. That is a trend that is distinctly in contrast to my normal, glutonous, habits.
Plus, I just feel weird. Not too sore. Not too stiff. More like sad, I guess. My head was really loopy all day yesterday. Felt like I had a bad case of medicine head. Sort of a slow motion type of a day.
Today is similar. My head feels clearer, but hardly clear. I'm still feeling sort of lost. I'll probably feel better after the ride tonight...I need to get some cool air in my lungs, get some miles in my legs, and try to clear my head.
I'm not whining, mind you. Or, at least, I'm not trying to...you may disagree. I suppose I'm just not sure what to do. I have the day off. Karin and the kids are gone. I have the house to myself. Sounds like a great time for a nap...but, I'm not tired. Not hungry. And, not the least bit motivated to do anything.
I need to ride tonight!
19 October 2008
Bloggin from Death Valley
Well...it's over. I'm done. I quit. feh.
Death Valley is an astonishing place. Alien in a way that defies my ability to describe...and, thus, a totally unique riding experience. A vast expanse of sand, gravel and rocks. A concrete ribbon winding across the salt, the scrub, and the vast, unexplainable expanse.
The ride was brutal...the length, the climb at the end, the utterly oppressive unending heat. I was tired at the end in a way that I've never been before. I was totally, completely, fully spent. The road hurt, the checkpoints healed. Each checkpoint along the way was an opportunity to return to some level of humanity. Then, it was back to the road and back to being a machine...unthinking, unending, pedaling machine...with a broken radiator! Overheating wasn't a momentary problem to be fixed. It was a way of life. It was the primary feature of my existence for about 8 hours.
Why keep going? Because I said I would. Because my wife, my kids, my family, and my friends were pulling for me. Because of that little picture of Katie's daughters on my handlebars. Because DiD, Rick, and Spooner were there, suffering with me...as a team. Looking out for one another. Pulling for one another. Because there were people on that course who were going to be out there a lot longer than me...and they weren't going to quit. Because the coaches were out there, in force, helping people pedal...a lot...making multiple trips up Jubilee pass...and, if they weren't quiting, how could I?
In the end, it was another team mate, Ted, who got me home. He finished his ride, turned around, and went back on the course to help people out. He found me with about 4 miles to go...and, helped drag me home. He had a cold bottle of water...a rare treat on the course. He broke the wind in front of me. He talked to me. He made me think about things other than how much I hurt. He was, in short, awesome. Yet, he is typical of the type of people on this team.
DiD, made multiple trips up Jubilee pas in order to help some people out. Jasker? Same deal. Ted went back out again after he helped me.
So, why would I ever do this again? Because it would be an injustice to the team that helped me if I didn't help someone next year.
See you then!
Death Valley is an astonishing place. Alien in a way that defies my ability to describe...and, thus, a totally unique riding experience. A vast expanse of sand, gravel and rocks. A concrete ribbon winding across the salt, the scrub, and the vast, unexplainable expanse.
The ride was brutal...the length, the climb at the end, the utterly oppressive unending heat. I was tired at the end in a way that I've never been before. I was totally, completely, fully spent. The road hurt, the checkpoints healed. Each checkpoint along the way was an opportunity to return to some level of humanity. Then, it was back to the road and back to being a machine...unthinking, unending, pedaling machine...with a broken radiator! Overheating wasn't a momentary problem to be fixed. It was a way of life. It was the primary feature of my existence for about 8 hours.
Why keep going? Because I said I would. Because my wife, my kids, my family, and my friends were pulling for me. Because of that little picture of Katie's daughters on my handlebars. Because DiD, Rick, and Spooner were there, suffering with me...as a team. Looking out for one another. Pulling for one another. Because there were people on that course who were going to be out there a lot longer than me...and they weren't going to quit. Because the coaches were out there, in force, helping people pedal...a lot...making multiple trips up Jubilee pass...and, if they weren't quiting, how could I?
In the end, it was another team mate, Ted, who got me home. He finished his ride, turned around, and went back on the course to help people out. He found me with about 4 miles to go...and, helped drag me home. He had a cold bottle of water...a rare treat on the course. He broke the wind in front of me. He talked to me. He made me think about things other than how much I hurt. He was, in short, awesome. Yet, he is typical of the type of people on this team.
DiD, made multiple trips up Jubilee pas in order to help some people out. Jasker? Same deal. Ted went back out again after he helped me.
So, why would I ever do this again? Because it would be an injustice to the team that helped me if I didn't help someone next year.
See you then!
17 October 2008
Death Valley
What an astonishing place this is...what a day, what a great group of people, what an experience.
Up early this morning, I was already excited. Slept light last night because I had so much on my mind...a long day of travel didn't help that. Thinking too much is what I do...like its my JOB. Grand Rapids to Chicago, Chicago to Las Vegas, on the bus from Vegas to Death Valley. All told, it was a good 12 hours of traveling.
I listened to some music, watched a movie, and started on a book I borrowed from a friend (thanks Erin!). I was able to keep myself from going nuts...but, I wouldn't say it was a fun day.
But, with all that said, getting here this afternoon made it worth while. Unpacked, got my bike and set it up, tossed on my swimsuit and hopped in the pool. Hung out with the gang, laughed, traded some jokes and some barbs...had a great dinner and then watched the moon come up over the mountains. The sky is so dark and so clear...I'm watching the stars as I type this and it is simply breath taking.
Thanks, MC, for talking me in to this. I know you didn't have to twist my arm too badly...I was a pretty willing participant. But, still, if you hadn't asked I wouldn't be here enjoying this evening. And, I'm damn glad to be here. What a place!
Up early this morning, I was already excited. Slept light last night because I had so much on my mind...a long day of travel didn't help that. Thinking too much is what I do...like its my JOB. Grand Rapids to Chicago, Chicago to Las Vegas, on the bus from Vegas to Death Valley. All told, it was a good 12 hours of traveling.
I listened to some music, watched a movie, and started on a book I borrowed from a friend (thanks Erin!). I was able to keep myself from going nuts...but, I wouldn't say it was a fun day.
But, with all that said, getting here this afternoon made it worth while. Unpacked, got my bike and set it up, tossed on my swimsuit and hopped in the pool. Hung out with the gang, laughed, traded some jokes and some barbs...had a great dinner and then watched the moon come up over the mountains. The sky is so dark and so clear...I'm watching the stars as I type this and it is simply breath taking.
Thanks, MC, for talking me in to this. I know you didn't have to twist my arm too badly...I was a pretty willing participant. But, still, if you hadn't asked I wouldn't be here enjoying this evening. And, I'm damn glad to be here. What a place!
11 October 2008
Busy Week...
This coming week is going to be a busy one...so, if I'm tough to get ahold of...my apologies.
Sunday I'm heading in for about 4 hours of work early in the morning. Then, straight to VCC to do a little ride with MC, Linda, and hopefully DID, Keith, J2, etc. Then, straight home to catch a movie on Dove Films with Karin and the kids.
Monday I'm getting up early (4AM) and grabbing a rental car from the airport. On the road by 6AM to Toledo. Toledo by 9AM to help with some training, inventory prep, merchandising, D2 conference call, etc. Work until about 6 or 7PM, then hit the road for Akron...in Akron by about 10PM.
Tuesday I'm up early to do an all day troubleshooting session in Akron. Inventory prep, receiving, etc...probably be there all day. Crash there Tuesday night.
Wednesday morning I'm up early again and heading for Cleveland. Short day doing training there...then, home to Grand Rapids. Work a few hours in my store, then home.
Thursday...up early again. Drop off the rental at the airport and hop on a plane to Vegas. Bus to Death Valley.
Friday, up early for safety seminar and a tune-up ride. Hike through the canyons in teh afternoon and the banquet in the evening.
Saturday up early for 100+ miles of cycling across Death Valley. Dehydration? Yes, please. Can I have that with a side of fries?
Sunday, up early to hop back on a plane to Grand Rapids.
Whew...should be an interesting week. Somewhere in there I should try to find some time to eat, sleep, and pack. Yikes.
08 October 2008
Need some help
I really need some help...Karin was installing the MS Vista SP1 update on her computer when it failed to reboot. Now the computer will no longer boot in to the operating system. And, therefore, is useless.
I've now spent two evenings on the phone with MS technical support...and, they have been awesome. They've really tried just about EVERYTHING to get this thing up and running. But, we are just plain out of options. What I really need is a copy of the operating system so that we can replace some of the files that were corrupted.
Unfortunately, neither mine nor Karin's notebook came with a copy of Vista on DVD. All we have is "restoration" cds...not the actual operating system. If I had a copy of the DVD, they could have the whole thing fixed in about 15 minutes. But, I don't. Bleh.
I called the computer manufacturer to get them to send me a copy of the OEM Vista DVD...but, they were less than helpful. So, now I've called MS again. And, they have been exceedingly helpful right up to the point where I ask them to send me a copy of the OS on DVD. That, they will not do. Anything else, they are very willing to help me out with...bummer.
They gave me specific permission to borrow the DVD from a friend...for this circumstance it won't matter, apparently, whether it is actually my DVD. So...if anyone out there is reading this note, please let me know if you've got that OS on DVD. I'd only need to borrow it for an afternoon to let MS finish fixing the computer they broke.
Anyone? Bueller?
24 September 2008
Obligatory regard for cycling safety
So, on my way home from the TNR last night I passed 5 cyclists on Bauer road west of 48th. 4 were together, and 1 appeared to have been dropped by the group. They were all in similar kit...and, it was kit I've seen at Grattan. I don't know if it was shop kit, team kit, or just "look at us, we wear matching spandex" kit. In any case, it was clear that they were together.
So why bring this up? It's not as if I write something on this blog every time I drive past someone on a bike.
Here is the deal...it was dark outside when I was nearing Jenison. Thus, it was dark when I passed these fellows pedaling along. The guy who was by himself was nearly invisible in those light conditions and I damn near pegged him with my car. So, you can imagine the guilt I'd have felt about that one!
Shortly ahead of him (1/4 mile) were the other four riding together. There was one guy among these four who came prepared with front and rear blinkies. Still...I could see that there was A cyclist ahead. I could not determine that there was a group of cyclists ahead. So, even though I knew to be looking for them, it was still a bit dicey passing these guys riding two abreast.
So my question is as follows...where does my obligation to their safety begin and end?
My first reaction was...Uh Oh, these guys got caught too far from home after dark and now their going to get killed. So, I slowed down as I passed the lead group...rolled down my window and waited for them to catch me. But, then it occurred to me that they didn't need my help...it was the poor guy they had dropped that needed help. So, I turned around and drove back to the guy who had fallen off the group.
I don't know what I was thinking I would do for this fella...but, it just seemed like I should tell him that I had nearly killed him 2 minutes before that. I pulled next to him and asked if he had a blinkie...he said no. I informed him that he was nearly invisible and that I was concerned for his safety. He then informed me that he'd already made a phone call and had someone coming to pick him up.
I took this to mean that he understand his precarious situation, but that he was dealing with it. So, I told him to be safe and I made my way home.
Afterward I wondered if I should have done more...did I do too much? When I'm in my car, I have the standard obligation to keep cyclists on the road safe. This is no different than any other motorist. However, since I'm a cyclist (I still had my rack and bike on the back of my car as I was on my way home from my own group ride), should I hold myself to a higher standard in regards to cyclist safety?
Should I have turned around and said something like I did? I was half expecting him to tell me to buzz off..."I know its dark, leave me alone", or something similar. But, he didn't...he seemed grateful for my concern and answered it by letting me know that he was dealing with the situation. He could have just as well told me to mind my own business, though. So...was I just making an nuisance of myself or was it the right thing to do?
Should I have done more? I had a space left on my rack and plenty of seats in my car. I could have given at least him a ride somewhere to wait for whoever was picking him up. But, I didn't offer that. And, afterward, I felt like I should have. I also thought that I could have taken a few minutes and just trailed behind him with my flashers on...it sounded like he wasn't going far. It would have cost me 10 minutes, but possibly saved his life. A pretty small trade off in my opinion. But, I didn't do that either. After I spoke with him it sort of felt like it would have been a bit presumptuous on my part to do that. Still...even if he didn't particularly need or want my help, should I feel a moral obligation to keep him safe?
If I picked up the paper this morning and found an article about how that guy had been hit by a car, I don't think I'd have relieved my guilt by reminding myself that it would have been presumptuous to take responsibility for his safety.
So, again, where does my own responsibility for his safety begin and end? I know the legal answer. I'm not sure I know the moral answer.
So why bring this up? It's not as if I write something on this blog every time I drive past someone on a bike.
Here is the deal...it was dark outside when I was nearing Jenison. Thus, it was dark when I passed these fellows pedaling along. The guy who was by himself was nearly invisible in those light conditions and I damn near pegged him with my car. So, you can imagine the guilt I'd have felt about that one!
Shortly ahead of him (1/4 mile) were the other four riding together. There was one guy among these four who came prepared with front and rear blinkies. Still...I could see that there was A cyclist ahead. I could not determine that there was a group of cyclists ahead. So, even though I knew to be looking for them, it was still a bit dicey passing these guys riding two abreast.
So my question is as follows...where does my obligation to their safety begin and end?
My first reaction was...Uh Oh, these guys got caught too far from home after dark and now their going to get killed. So, I slowed down as I passed the lead group...rolled down my window and waited for them to catch me. But, then it occurred to me that they didn't need my help...it was the poor guy they had dropped that needed help. So, I turned around and drove back to the guy who had fallen off the group.
I don't know what I was thinking I would do for this fella...but, it just seemed like I should tell him that I had nearly killed him 2 minutes before that. I pulled next to him and asked if he had a blinkie...he said no. I informed him that he was nearly invisible and that I was concerned for his safety. He then informed me that he'd already made a phone call and had someone coming to pick him up.
I took this to mean that he understand his precarious situation, but that he was dealing with it. So, I told him to be safe and I made my way home.
Afterward I wondered if I should have done more...did I do too much? When I'm in my car, I have the standard obligation to keep cyclists on the road safe. This is no different than any other motorist. However, since I'm a cyclist (I still had my rack and bike on the back of my car as I was on my way home from my own group ride), should I hold myself to a higher standard in regards to cyclist safety?
Should I have turned around and said something like I did? I was half expecting him to tell me to buzz off..."I know its dark, leave me alone", or something similar. But, he didn't...he seemed grateful for my concern and answered it by letting me know that he was dealing with the situation. He could have just as well told me to mind my own business, though. So...was I just making an nuisance of myself or was it the right thing to do?
Should I have done more? I had a space left on my rack and plenty of seats in my car. I could have given at least him a ride somewhere to wait for whoever was picking him up. But, I didn't offer that. And, afterward, I felt like I should have. I also thought that I could have taken a few minutes and just trailed behind him with my flashers on...it sounded like he wasn't going far. It would have cost me 10 minutes, but possibly saved his life. A pretty small trade off in my opinion. But, I didn't do that either. After I spoke with him it sort of felt like it would have been a bit presumptuous on my part to do that. Still...even if he didn't particularly need or want my help, should I feel a moral obligation to keep him safe?
If I picked up the paper this morning and found an article about how that guy had been hit by a car, I don't think I'd have relieved my guilt by reminding myself that it would have been presumptuous to take responsibility for his safety.
So, again, where does my own responsibility for his safety begin and end? I know the legal answer. I'm not sure I know the moral answer.
23 September 2008
Busy much?
Seems like I've been swamped lately. However, I was recently told that it was definitely time for an update on my blog. Thus...an update appears.
So what to discuss?
ODRAM? It was awesome. One of the best days I've ever had on the bike. Good company, great weather, lots of Oreos...what more could I ask for. I had a blast, I felt good on the bike and I rode pretty strong (for me). Finished in 8.5 hours or so (ride time) and was chowing down on dinner by about 5:30PM.
Travel? Yeah, I was out of town for about a week. I missed the first KissCross of the season, missed a TNR, and generally fell out of the loop. I spent the week in Minnesota at a company retreat. We had some meetings and...gasp...played golf. Yep. Golf. I know, I know...you've probably never heard me discuss golf before. But, there once was a time when it was the central focus of my life, and not just because it was my career. I was pretty good...not great...but, good enough to set high expectations. But, in the past years I've not had the time or inclination to work on my game the way I should. Thus, when I do play, I play pretty poorly. And, I find that more frustrating than not playing at all...so, I just don't play. Except, this year I needed to play at the company retreat. I teed it up for the first time in a year...literally. I suck. It's a good thing I got to play with some good people. My friend Erin entertained me enough to keep me from getting depressed on the first day. Then, my friend Michael Angelo (no really, that's his name!) picked up the role of keeping me from hitting the Quit-Life button during the second day. I survived the travel, the meetings, and the golf...thus, I'm posting to tell you about it. Score.
JDRF? I'm panicking...I don't have nearly enough money raised yet. I started off on fire about 6 months ago. And, I knew I could count on significant donations from my friends around my company. Sadly, the turmoil within our corporate office made the idea of doing fundraising seem a bit awkward. So, I avoided it. Now, I'm left needing to raise a boat load of money and with fairly little time to do it. My wife has commit to helping me by sending out some letters on my behalf. But...in truth, I'm probably going to have to start knocking on doors at some local businesses to see if they can do something. Heather (who is a saint!) is helping me out with a Yoga fundraiser. So, hopefully I'll be able to get something figured out.
Riding? Not much. At least, not nearly where I was in June & July. Seems like when MC is out of town my miles fall off greatly. Probably not a coincidence. ;-) I've not been commuting lately...I believe the pedals on my Volpe were a contributing factor in the destruction of my left knee. And, until I can afford better pedals, I'm avoiding riding that bike. Sadly, I'm going to need to figure something out soon or I won't be doing any 'cross, any crazy bastard rides, or any more commuting (I don't like taking the C-Dale for commuter rides. I feel like I'm beating the life out of it).
Business? Yep. I still have a job.
My brain? Yep...technically, it's still here too. Though, to be honest, it seems to be working ever more sporadically. I get the feeling that I'm slowly evacuating the real world as I slip ever further in to my own strange little universe. Hm. Yeah...I ain't right.
So what to discuss?
ODRAM? It was awesome. One of the best days I've ever had on the bike. Good company, great weather, lots of Oreos...what more could I ask for. I had a blast, I felt good on the bike and I rode pretty strong (for me). Finished in 8.5 hours or so (ride time) and was chowing down on dinner by about 5:30PM.
Travel? Yeah, I was out of town for about a week. I missed the first KissCross of the season, missed a TNR, and generally fell out of the loop. I spent the week in Minnesota at a company retreat. We had some meetings and...gasp...played golf. Yep. Golf. I know, I know...you've probably never heard me discuss golf before. But, there once was a time when it was the central focus of my life, and not just because it was my career. I was pretty good...not great...but, good enough to set high expectations. But, in the past years I've not had the time or inclination to work on my game the way I should. Thus, when I do play, I play pretty poorly. And, I find that more frustrating than not playing at all...so, I just don't play. Except, this year I needed to play at the company retreat. I teed it up for the first time in a year...literally. I suck. It's a good thing I got to play with some good people. My friend Erin entertained me enough to keep me from getting depressed on the first day. Then, my friend Michael Angelo (no really, that's his name!) picked up the role of keeping me from hitting the Quit-Life button during the second day. I survived the travel, the meetings, and the golf...thus, I'm posting to tell you about it. Score.
JDRF? I'm panicking...I don't have nearly enough money raised yet. I started off on fire about 6 months ago. And, I knew I could count on significant donations from my friends around my company. Sadly, the turmoil within our corporate office made the idea of doing fundraising seem a bit awkward. So, I avoided it. Now, I'm left needing to raise a boat load of money and with fairly little time to do it. My wife has commit to helping me by sending out some letters on my behalf. But...in truth, I'm probably going to have to start knocking on doors at some local businesses to see if they can do something. Heather (who is a saint!) is helping me out with a Yoga fundraiser. So, hopefully I'll be able to get something figured out.
Riding? Not much. At least, not nearly where I was in June & July. Seems like when MC is out of town my miles fall off greatly. Probably not a coincidence. ;-) I've not been commuting lately...I believe the pedals on my Volpe were a contributing factor in the destruction of my left knee. And, until I can afford better pedals, I'm avoiding riding that bike. Sadly, I'm going to need to figure something out soon or I won't be doing any 'cross, any crazy bastard rides, or any more commuting (I don't like taking the C-Dale for commuter rides. I feel like I'm beating the life out of it).
Business? Yep. I still have a job.
My brain? Yep...technically, it's still here too. Though, to be honest, it seems to be working ever more sporadically. I get the feeling that I'm slowly evacuating the real world as I slip ever further in to my own strange little universe. Hm. Yeah...I ain't right.
03 September 2008
More from Fail Blog
see more pwn and owned pictures
This one is for Jasker...I don't know why. It just made me think of him. Maybe it was the conversation we had about the US Open while we were riding on Sunday.
see more pwn and owned pictures
And, this one is a gift for MC and the rest of good JDRF people who had to deal with DHL while in Whitefish last week. MC...would you say this pretty well sums it up?
see more pwn and owned pictures
Google Chrome
So I've been giving Google's new browser a try for the past few days. And, after a short trial period, I think I can say that I like it.
It's not perfect. There are still some little tweaks that need to be made...a few bugs to work out. But, it is still just a beta version...so, it's not going to be perfect.
It does take some getting used to in so far as it operates on a slightly different plan that Firefox or IE8. Seems like more of the functions are integrated and it just figures out what you want. To me, I'm used to looking for a different button for every function within a browser. This one seems to combine a lot of the functions in to a just a few minimal buttons. It's interesting...and a bit different. Give it a try. It's available here.
It's not perfect. There are still some little tweaks that need to be made...a few bugs to work out. But, it is still just a beta version...so, it's not going to be perfect.
It does take some getting used to in so far as it operates on a slightly different plan that Firefox or IE8. Seems like more of the functions are integrated and it just figures out what you want. To me, I'm used to looking for a different button for every function within a browser. This one seems to combine a lot of the functions in to a just a few minimal buttons. It's interesting...and a bit different. Give it a try. It's available here.
02 September 2008
Tag! I'm it?
I'm not sure what sort of an idiotic game this is...but, my wife "tagged" me in her blog. So, now I have to answer some silly questions.
So...check Karin's blog if you want to verify that she tagged me. And, that I did, in fact, "get sensitive" about the fact that she tagged 3 blogs (you are supposed to tag 4), but intentionally left my blog un-tagged. The nerve!
Anyway...question answering time.
-What four places to I visit over and over?
1. Work
2. Home
3. Velo City Cycles
4. Jimmy Johns
-Four people who email me regularly?
1. Work
2. My wife (Yes, the above mentioned Karin)
3. Mike "MC" Clark. Cyclist. Guitarist. Vocalist. Husband. Father. Mayor of Velo City Cycles. JDRF Team Captain and Coach. HUP Member. Crazy Bastard. And, all around good guy.
4. My mother.
-Four places I would rather be right now?
1. On vacation "up north"...Traverse City, Petoskey, Mackinac...I don't care. Cool nights. Starlight skies. Camp fires and s'mores. Bike rides on expansive roads with very few cars. ahhh.
2. On my bike.
3. On a golf course.
4. In bed.
-Four TV Shows I watch over and over?
1. The olympics...in spite of my griping over the coverage, I pretty much watch it non-stop while it is on. and, now that it is gone...well...I feel so lost. Help me?!?
2. The US Open (Tennis) right now...I love watching tennis.
3. "The Majors" in golf...The Masters, the US Open, The Open Championship (British open to us yanks), and the PGA Championship.
4. Top Gear (It's a BBC Thing)
-Four things I have for breakfast?
1. A Banana
2. "The Balanced Breakfast" from Arnies. Buy one, get the second one for $.99 if you print the coupon off of their website. ;-) Heck of a deal if you've got a friend who wants breakfast too.
3. The Good Earth - #34, no cream cheese.
4. Pancakes, Waffles, or French Toast if I can talk Karin in to it...doesn't happen very often, but it's great when it does.
-Four animals I like best?
Ugghh...this feels like a question I'd have to answer for a quiz from my daughter. Is this a pets type thing? Or, just sort of a theoretical question where I can pick any animal? In the interests of being a pain in the butt...here...
1. Dragons
2. Unicorns
3. Griffins
4. Centaurs
-Name four beaches I've been to?
Ok...four of them...in order from North to South
1. Grand Haven
2. Holland
3. Saugatuck
4. South Haven
Now...for the fun part. And, frankly, the only reason that I really wanted to get tagged. I get to tag other people. I have 4 in mind...
MC, Club Velo...you know...Mike "I'll sleep when I'm dead" Clark
Ha...we'll see if any of these respond. I know Maynard won't. And, I doubt Dannielle will. I don't know if Ted even reads my blog any more. And, MC probably won't have time.
But, nonetheless. Tag...you're it!
29 August 2008
26 August 2008
Alcohol was a Factor
Read the last sentence of this story.
If I never have to hear those words again, it'll be too soon.
I realize that alcohol plays a significant role in lives of many people for entertainment, relaxation, or social purposes. And, nothing I say or do is ever going to change that. Alcohol's role within our society is firmly entrenched...no matter how many people do untold numbers of stupid things, none of that is going to change.
But, I'm going to continue to be confused by it. I just cannot wrap my mind around it.
I'm sure that my perspective is somewhat distorted. I don't drink. Never have. Never will. I don't see the appeal in it, and so I just don't do it.
I don't hop on my soapbox mind you...if I'm out to dinner with friends and they want to have a beer...I'm certainly not going to say anything. My choice is exactly that...my choice. The only person that I've asked to follow my choice is Karin... and, she does so willingly. My kids, too, will have to abide my choice until they have reached legal age and are no longer under my roof. Then, when it is their choice, I hope they make the same one as me. But, if they don't, I'll try to understand that.
My point is this...I'm not picketing in front of bars. I'm not suggesting that prohibition is the right thing to do. I don't intentionally create the socially awkward situation in which I publicly chastise someone for choosing to have a drink with alcohol contained within.
But, my somewhat slanted perspective on this topic frequently leads me to just shake my head in amazement at the things I see, read, hear as it relates to alcohol. Too often a tragic story about an automobile accident, boating accident, motorcycle or ATV accident, a fight, a shooting, or some other crime ends with the sentence "alcohol was a factor". And, I'm beginning to wonder why I so rarely hear anyone speak up on that topic.
I'm just tired of stories that end in a tragedy in which alcohol was a factor. And, perhaps, stupid is as stupid does. Maybe someone who was going to be involved in this type of tragic accident was going to do the same whether alcohol was available or not. Perhaps it was just a matter of time...if not that day, then some other day.
Right now the presidents of some of the most influential institutions of higher learning are starting a movement. That movement; a call to move our social structure away from alcohol as a social lubricant? No. They are forming some degree of social momentum toward the idea of lowering the legal drinking age to 18, rather than 21.
Now, I'm not going to debate the relative merits of that topic. Binge drinking vs. social lubricant. Age of responsibility, old enough to die for my country but not old enough to have a beer...etc, etc. I've heard this all before. And, as a fairly staunch libertarian, I'm generally in favor of getting our government out of our lives.
But, the man in this story was 33...not 17. Not 20. Not 22. He was old enough to have gone through the binge drinking phase of his life....and, theoretically, old enough to know better. My point, I guess, is that a debate of age seems silly to me. I don't think age has much to do with the tragedies we see related to alcohol. Make the legal age 12 if you want...I don't think it will matter much.
Until I stop hearing potentially tragic stories related to me in a "you've got to hear this. It's hilarious" context...I don't think the age will matter much. Watching my friends fall down drunk wasn't funny when I was in high school. It wasn't funny in college. It's still not funny now. Hearing them tell me stories about how they just barely made it home from the bar...just makes me cringe.
I'm not going to ask anyone to skip a drink. You make your own choice. Enjoy a beer or a glass of wine, I've got no problem with that. But, enjoy a couple too many and you can expect me to ask for your keys. And, no, I won't have a sense of humor about it.
The guy in the article....I wonder how many of his friends wish they had stepped in and told the guy not to get on his ATV. I wonder if any of them were sober enough to realize that they should have. Someone should have stopped him...but, they didn't...because alcohol was a factor.
http://www.mlive.com/grpress/news/index.ssf/2008/08/two_public_officials_express_e.html
http://www.mlive.com/grpress/news/index.ssf/2008/08/greenville_man_charged_with_dr.html
If I never have to hear those words again, it'll be too soon.
I realize that alcohol plays a significant role in lives of many people for entertainment, relaxation, or social purposes. And, nothing I say or do is ever going to change that. Alcohol's role within our society is firmly entrenched...no matter how many people do untold numbers of stupid things, none of that is going to change.
But, I'm going to continue to be confused by it. I just cannot wrap my mind around it.
I'm sure that my perspective is somewhat distorted. I don't drink. Never have. Never will. I don't see the appeal in it, and so I just don't do it.
I don't hop on my soapbox mind you...if I'm out to dinner with friends and they want to have a beer...I'm certainly not going to say anything. My choice is exactly that...my choice. The only person that I've asked to follow my choice is Karin... and, she does so willingly. My kids, too, will have to abide my choice until they have reached legal age and are no longer under my roof. Then, when it is their choice, I hope they make the same one as me. But, if they don't, I'll try to understand that.
My point is this...I'm not picketing in front of bars. I'm not suggesting that prohibition is the right thing to do. I don't intentionally create the socially awkward situation in which I publicly chastise someone for choosing to have a drink with alcohol contained within.
But, my somewhat slanted perspective on this topic frequently leads me to just shake my head in amazement at the things I see, read, hear as it relates to alcohol. Too often a tragic story about an automobile accident, boating accident, motorcycle or ATV accident, a fight, a shooting, or some other crime ends with the sentence "alcohol was a factor". And, I'm beginning to wonder why I so rarely hear anyone speak up on that topic.
I'm just tired of stories that end in a tragedy in which alcohol was a factor. And, perhaps, stupid is as stupid does. Maybe someone who was going to be involved in this type of tragic accident was going to do the same whether alcohol was available or not. Perhaps it was just a matter of time...if not that day, then some other day.
Right now the presidents of some of the most influential institutions of higher learning are starting a movement. That movement; a call to move our social structure away from alcohol as a social lubricant? No. They are forming some degree of social momentum toward the idea of lowering the legal drinking age to 18, rather than 21.
Now, I'm not going to debate the relative merits of that topic. Binge drinking vs. social lubricant. Age of responsibility, old enough to die for my country but not old enough to have a beer...etc, etc. I've heard this all before. And, as a fairly staunch libertarian, I'm generally in favor of getting our government out of our lives.
But, the man in this story was 33...not 17. Not 20. Not 22. He was old enough to have gone through the binge drinking phase of his life....and, theoretically, old enough to know better. My point, I guess, is that a debate of age seems silly to me. I don't think age has much to do with the tragedies we see related to alcohol. Make the legal age 12 if you want...I don't think it will matter much.
Until I stop hearing potentially tragic stories related to me in a "you've got to hear this. It's hilarious" context...I don't think the age will matter much. Watching my friends fall down drunk wasn't funny when I was in high school. It wasn't funny in college. It's still not funny now. Hearing them tell me stories about how they just barely made it home from the bar...just makes me cringe.
I'm not going to ask anyone to skip a drink. You make your own choice. Enjoy a beer or a glass of wine, I've got no problem with that. But, enjoy a couple too many and you can expect me to ask for your keys. And, no, I won't have a sense of humor about it.
The guy in the article....I wonder how many of his friends wish they had stepped in and told the guy not to get on his ATV. I wonder if any of them were sober enough to realize that they should have. Someone should have stopped him...but, they didn't...because alcohol was a factor.
http://www.mlive.com/grpress/news/index.ssf/2008/08/two_public_officials_express_e.html
http://www.mlive.com/grpress/news/index.ssf/2008/08/greenville_man_charged_with_dr.html
The Sidewalk to Nowhere
I've never seen this whole thing officially written down in policy...but, as a life-long resident of Jenison I can speak from a significant level of personal experience.
Jenison has an amusing, perplexing, and entirely unnecessary habit of creating sidewalks that don't actually go anywhere. Why? Good question!
When I was a child growing up in Jenison there were only two roads in the entire town that had Sidewalks. Baldwin and 20th. That was pretty much it. All the "back roads" as we called them...the residential streets off of those two main roads...did not have sidewalks. And, for the most part, still don't have sidewalks.
Both then and now, there was no real need for sidewalks. Other than Baldwin and Chicago Drive...both of which appear to pass through Jenison rather that be a part of it...the roads are quiet, subdued, sleepy, leafy little avenues. For the most part, people drive slowly, they are considerate, and they wave as they go by. So, there just simply isn't a great need for sidewalks. Riding your bike, taking a walk with your best gal, or getting in a nice jog can all be done in the road with no real interference from vehicles. In fact, regular games of baseball, football, soccer, etc are played by children in the middle of these streets. So, riding your bike really isn't an issue at all.
About 15 years ago I started to notice that there were random little stretches of sidewalk popping up around Jenison.
Most of these were in the immediate area of a school...and that makes sense. This gives kids the chance to get away from the lines of cars picking-up or dropping-off little Susy and Johny at school.
But, more than that, I started to notice sidewalks that were a bit more random. And, these were always related to the development of new property. Any time a piece of land was sold to develop a new subdivision or some small section of commercial property...the new properties, both homes and businesses, had a sidewalk out front.
I can only assume this was the result of some change in ordinance from Georgetown Township (since Jenison isn't technically a city). Essentially, they were requiring the installation of a sidewalk of specific size and dimension for the full frontage of any newly developed property.
The idea certainly seems well intentioned. But, fails utterly in accomplishing anything.
First...the addition of sidewalks does not actually change the fact that we don't need them. We continue not to need them on most streets.
But, more importantly, and more strangely, these new sidewalks often started near nowhere and lead to nowhere. Since the essential properties in Jenison were all developed about 40-50 years ago, but this change in ordinance was not retroactive, it means that it is only effecting property that is just now being developed. That means it is primarily on the outskirts of our sleepy little suburb. And, it often means that these sidewalks are popping up between two previously developed properties that do not have sidewalks.
The best and most amusing illustration of the situation occurs on the east side of 8th Ave. south of Jenison between 44th St. and I-196. There is a large plot of land that was formerly a farm or something that was developed as a fairly affluent looking subdivision. There is only one street entrance leading back to it off from 8th Ave. But, since the whole property is new development, all the streets have sidewalks.
The most confusing of these sidewalks is the one that actually runs along 8th Ave. It is a large section of properties...but, its actual frontage along 8th is pretty small. Not more than a couple hundred yards. And, it is sandwiched between a large piece of farmland and another piece of privately held land that appears to be largely undeveloped (at least near 8th). And, this particular section of 8th has a fairly substantial gully along the side where these properties are located, making the development of a sidewalk very difficult.
Since these sidewalks are apparently required, the builders apparently went to great expense to build up a raised section of land just wide enough to support a sidewalk all through this low lying area. I watched the construction process as I passed it each day on my way to work...and, I assure you, this was no small project. The sidewalk alone took significant effort. Men, machinery, and engineering were all used in substantial quantities in order to make the thing work.
The result?
A sidewalk that randomly starts from out of the side of a hill. Literally. There is a hill...then, dug in to the hill is a sheer wall and some flat land. The sidewalk starts on that flat land...it appears as though someone meant to build a tunnel in to that hill, but simply forgot. The sidewalk just stops right in to the face of this hill...right at the property line.
The other side is even more amusing as the builders were apparently required to install the "base" for the installation of the sidewalk for the entire section of road along 8th that might have been down in the low lying area. But, only about 1/2 of that area is along the property. So, there is a sidewalk built that goes along this raised piece of land until it hits the property line...then, it just stops. The raised land continues on...but, the sidewalk does not. And, even more amusingly, the farm property on that side uses that section of land for grazing horses...and they don't want the horses to just wander off...so, they've installed a section of electric fence along that whole side of the property. The sidewalk literally dead-ends in to an electric fence.
So, at great expense to someone, a sidewalk was built that goes from nowhere to nowhere.
I find that funny.
Jenison has an amusing, perplexing, and entirely unnecessary habit of creating sidewalks that don't actually go anywhere. Why? Good question!
When I was a child growing up in Jenison there were only two roads in the entire town that had Sidewalks. Baldwin and 20th. That was pretty much it. All the "back roads" as we called them...the residential streets off of those two main roads...did not have sidewalks. And, for the most part, still don't have sidewalks.
Both then and now, there was no real need for sidewalks. Other than Baldwin and Chicago Drive...both of which appear to pass through Jenison rather that be a part of it...the roads are quiet, subdued, sleepy, leafy little avenues. For the most part, people drive slowly, they are considerate, and they wave as they go by. So, there just simply isn't a great need for sidewalks. Riding your bike, taking a walk with your best gal, or getting in a nice jog can all be done in the road with no real interference from vehicles. In fact, regular games of baseball, football, soccer, etc are played by children in the middle of these streets. So, riding your bike really isn't an issue at all.
About 15 years ago I started to notice that there were random little stretches of sidewalk popping up around Jenison.
Most of these were in the immediate area of a school...and that makes sense. This gives kids the chance to get away from the lines of cars picking-up or dropping-off little Susy and Johny at school.
But, more than that, I started to notice sidewalks that were a bit more random. And, these were always related to the development of new property. Any time a piece of land was sold to develop a new subdivision or some small section of commercial property...the new properties, both homes and businesses, had a sidewalk out front.
I can only assume this was the result of some change in ordinance from Georgetown Township (since Jenison isn't technically a city). Essentially, they were requiring the installation of a sidewalk of specific size and dimension for the full frontage of any newly developed property.
The idea certainly seems well intentioned. But, fails utterly in accomplishing anything.
First...the addition of sidewalks does not actually change the fact that we don't need them. We continue not to need them on most streets.
But, more importantly, and more strangely, these new sidewalks often started near nowhere and lead to nowhere. Since the essential properties in Jenison were all developed about 40-50 years ago, but this change in ordinance was not retroactive, it means that it is only effecting property that is just now being developed. That means it is primarily on the outskirts of our sleepy little suburb. And, it often means that these sidewalks are popping up between two previously developed properties that do not have sidewalks.
The best and most amusing illustration of the situation occurs on the east side of 8th Ave. south of Jenison between 44th St. and I-196. There is a large plot of land that was formerly a farm or something that was developed as a fairly affluent looking subdivision. There is only one street entrance leading back to it off from 8th Ave. But, since the whole property is new development, all the streets have sidewalks.
The most confusing of these sidewalks is the one that actually runs along 8th Ave. It is a large section of properties...but, its actual frontage along 8th is pretty small. Not more than a couple hundred yards. And, it is sandwiched between a large piece of farmland and another piece of privately held land that appears to be largely undeveloped (at least near 8th). And, this particular section of 8th has a fairly substantial gully along the side where these properties are located, making the development of a sidewalk very difficult.
Since these sidewalks are apparently required, the builders apparently went to great expense to build up a raised section of land just wide enough to support a sidewalk all through this low lying area. I watched the construction process as I passed it each day on my way to work...and, I assure you, this was no small project. The sidewalk alone took significant effort. Men, machinery, and engineering were all used in substantial quantities in order to make the thing work.
The result?
A sidewalk that randomly starts from out of the side of a hill. Literally. There is a hill...then, dug in to the hill is a sheer wall and some flat land. The sidewalk starts on that flat land...it appears as though someone meant to build a tunnel in to that hill, but simply forgot. The sidewalk just stops right in to the face of this hill...right at the property line.
The other side is even more amusing as the builders were apparently required to install the "base" for the installation of the sidewalk for the entire section of road along 8th that might have been down in the low lying area. But, only about 1/2 of that area is along the property. So, there is a sidewalk built that goes along this raised piece of land until it hits the property line...then, it just stops. The raised land continues on...but, the sidewalk does not. And, even more amusingly, the farm property on that side uses that section of land for grazing horses...and they don't want the horses to just wander off...so, they've installed a section of electric fence along that whole side of the property. The sidewalk literally dead-ends in to an electric fence.
So, at great expense to someone, a sidewalk was built that goes from nowhere to nowhere.
I find that funny.
23 August 2008
A Creative Lapse?
I feel like posting to my blog has become real work lately. Not that I don't enjoy it...but, that I just don't find myself with tons of things to say. So, I'm often waiting for a topic that sufficiently motivates me to start typing.
It occurred to me, just now, that life has been pretty good lately. Knee hurts, I'm fat, and I'd like to be faster on the bike. But, other than that, I'm feeling pretty content with life. And, as I was thinking on my relative bliss I managed to create a loose association between my relative happiness and my productivity on this blog.
It seems, based purely on conjecture and my own attempts to grasp at some reasoning, that the happier I am the less productive I become on his blog. So, does that mean my creativity or motivation comes from my level of unhappiness?
I'm not speculating that "life is misery" or that without pain I can't be creative or any other cliche' of the indie artiste. I'm just saying that I seem to become less motivated to spew my useless opinion when I'm happy. What's with that?
I generally use this blog as a forum to rant about the weather, rant about my commute to work, rant about bonking on the bike, rant about how frightened I am of Grattan, etc.
Perhaps I should spend more time focusing on the positive things in my life...good rides, good days, good friends...you know, the "feel good" stuff.
I'm beginning to question whether I'm really in touch with my own emotions. Perhaps I need to tap in to my inner-child a bit more. Maybe I need more introspection. Maybe I should start watching Oprah...and try harder not to vomit while she's doing her spiel.
Suddenly, I feel like I need a hug. I mean...can't we all just get along?
I think I'll try to concentrate on the positives a bit more.
Speaking of which...in the editorial section of the Grand Rapids Press today someone had written a letter regarding the recently discovered (the GR Press is a little behind the times) heated topic of driver vs. cyclist relations on our streets. This has been an ongoing topic in the press for the past couple weeks. And, so far, the conversation has remained cordial and only hinted at the real animosity that lies beneath our "friendly disagreement".
Today's letter, though, was interesting in so far as it was the opinion of someone who was willing to generalize ALL cyclists based on her relatively narrow commuting experience. She stated that she didn't have any trouble commuting to work on her bicycle using sidewalks to the whole way. All THREE miles of it. Yes, 3 (three) miles of it...down a lightly traveled street with good sidewalks. After all, she rarely encountered other people on the sidewalk during her epic ride to work. And, by her reckoning, she just couldn't understand why ALL bicyclists didn't just ride on the sidewalk. She also made sure to state that it only made sense to use the sidewalks since it just wasn't practical to expect the government to pay to add additional bike lanes all over the place. Especially since there won't be enough room once the mass transit systems are added.
I read the letter and was immediately perplexed by a few tidbits.
Happy, happy, joy, joy. Happy thoughts.
Since I'm trying something new and focusing on the positive in my blog...
I'm positive this person was an idiot. ;-)
It occurred to me, just now, that life has been pretty good lately. Knee hurts, I'm fat, and I'd like to be faster on the bike. But, other than that, I'm feeling pretty content with life. And, as I was thinking on my relative bliss I managed to create a loose association between my relative happiness and my productivity on this blog.
It seems, based purely on conjecture and my own attempts to grasp at some reasoning, that the happier I am the less productive I become on his blog. So, does that mean my creativity or motivation comes from my level of unhappiness?
I'm not speculating that "life is misery" or that without pain I can't be creative or any other cliche' of the indie artiste. I'm just saying that I seem to become less motivated to spew my useless opinion when I'm happy. What's with that?
I generally use this blog as a forum to rant about the weather, rant about my commute to work, rant about bonking on the bike, rant about how frightened I am of Grattan, etc.
Perhaps I should spend more time focusing on the positive things in my life...good rides, good days, good friends...you know, the "feel good" stuff.
I'm beginning to question whether I'm really in touch with my own emotions. Perhaps I need to tap in to my inner-child a bit more. Maybe I need more introspection. Maybe I should start watching Oprah...and try harder not to vomit while she's doing her spiel.
Suddenly, I feel like I need a hug. I mean...can't we all just get along?
I think I'll try to concentrate on the positives a bit more.
Speaking of which...in the editorial section of the Grand Rapids Press today someone had written a letter regarding the recently discovered (the GR Press is a little behind the times) heated topic of driver vs. cyclist relations on our streets. This has been an ongoing topic in the press for the past couple weeks. And, so far, the conversation has remained cordial and only hinted at the real animosity that lies beneath our "friendly disagreement".
Today's letter, though, was interesting in so far as it was the opinion of someone who was willing to generalize ALL cyclists based on her relatively narrow commuting experience. She stated that she didn't have any trouble commuting to work on her bicycle using sidewalks to the whole way. All THREE miles of it. Yes, 3 (three) miles of it...down a lightly traveled street with good sidewalks. After all, she rarely encountered other people on the sidewalk during her epic ride to work. And, by her reckoning, she just couldn't understand why ALL bicyclists didn't just ride on the sidewalk. She also made sure to state that it only made sense to use the sidewalks since it just wasn't practical to expect the government to pay to add additional bike lanes all over the place. Especially since there won't be enough room once the mass transit systems are added.
I read the letter and was immediately perplexed by a few tidbits.
- Why assume that her side-walked commute was representative of all commutes by bike? Especially when she is covering only 3 miles. Isn't it possible that there are as many different commuting circumstances as there are commuters? Grouping everyone on a bike in to one category seems a bit silly to me.
- Why assume that a sidewalk is available to everyone? I still wouldn't use it...but, most of my commute doesn't have a sidewalk available to me. Residential streets in West Michigan typically don't feature sidewalks. And, many secondary roads don't have sidewalks either. Many that do have sidewalks are in such a state of disrepair that I wouldn't be willing to risk my life on the cracked and crumbling cement. And, sidewalks are not routinely maintained during the winter months. What sidewalks I can find probably won't accessible once the snow falls.
- Sidewalks might be acceptable for use by someone traveling 10mph...though I don't think so. But, surely someone who would actually like to get to work in a reasonable amount of time will be travelling faster. My 18-19mph average on the way to work makes using the sidewalk not only impractical but dangerous to myself and others.
- Why assume that the only alternative to riding on the sidewalk is riding in a designated bike only lane? I don't need or want bike lanes. I'm very content travelling with traffic on a street with a reasonable speed limit (under 40mph) and moderately sized shoulder that affords me the opportunity to create room when cars are passing. I agree...I don't want the government taxing me for bike lanes either. I do want the government to protect cyclists from aggressive drivers through proper policing. And, I'd like the government to hold cyclists accountable for obeying traffic laws through proper policing. For all the complaining I read on various cycling blogs about the insanity of the young "fixxies" (or similar) guys blowing through stop signs, red lights, hopping on sidewalks, circumventing intersections, etc...I have rarely witnessed such behavior. The vast majority of the time I see idiocy on a bike is not done on the part of a "cyclist". It is generally on the part of some schmuck who is pedaling his meijer Mt. Bike at 5 mph the wrong way up a one way street. Or, some 12 year old kid dodging traffic on his bmx bike as he tries to cross the street. There is never a helmet on either person, and I am quite certain that neither of them have any idea that they are supposed to be following traffic laws.
Happy, happy, joy, joy. Happy thoughts.
Since I'm trying something new and focusing on the positive in my blog...
I'm positive this person was an idiot. ;-)
22 August 2008
Twas a nice day
I'm tired and I've had a great day...so, this is going to be a short post. But, as I'm basking in the afterglow of a lovely day at home I feel like I should make some effort to document it.
Took the day off work so that I might enjoy some time with my family on my Birthday. So, no work for me...it was nice...I haven't taken a full day off of work in a couple weeks.
Slept in a little bit...eventually I rolled out of bed (about 7:30 or so) and made my way out to VCC in Holland. I wanted to do the Bagel Ride...and, I'm glad I did. It was a fun ride. Lots of great people, as usual, a good route, a good pace and a couple sprints to keep things spicey. Had the chance to relive The Incident from the race on Wednesday Night at Grattan (see MC's post on his blog). Lots of trading stories with the gang...and, listening to Aaron and MC tell their tale. Since they actually landed in the pile, their recollection of the events was somewhat more interesting than mine.
After the ride we went to The Good Earth for some breakfast. I had the usual, we traded more stories, I got to hang out with Berger for a while...and we got rained on a little.
Went back to VCC, bought myself a Gift Certificate (don't ask), and hung out for a little bit. Hanging out at VCC is always a fun time...I like to wander and dream about what I would spend my money on if I actually had any. Since I don't have any...I generally have to spend massive amounts of time scrutinizing every detail of every minute purchase; feeling that if I make a mistake I might have wasted a valuable opportunity to spend my money on something better.
After VCC I went home, hopped in the hot tub for a few minutes and hit the showers. Got dressed, got the family packed up the van, and went out to lunch with my parents. They took us out for Olga's...so, I had a Snackers attack. Yummy. Ate enough Snackers to tide me over for about a year.
After lunch I indulged in a nap and a small amount of Olympic coverage. Followed that up with some time in the pool with Davis. Score.
Finally, Karin decided we should go out for a birthday dinner. So, we went back out to Holland and had dinner at 8th st. Grill. And, since I'd already blown any chance of being healthy while at Olga's...I decided to abondon all sense of concern for my health. Oreo Milk Shake? Yep. Olive burger? Don't mind if I do! A couple bowls of Corn Chowder? Yes, please. French fries? Uh huh. It was the whole fat-guy fun pack. I left feeling very happy, and exceptionally fat.
So, how does one follow up a meal like that? Well, we stopped by The Peanut Store. I wanted to buy MC a bag of chocolate covered peanuts...in the hopes that I might make myself feel better about my self indulgence by fattening him up a little too. ;-)
After that, it was time to head home. And, finally...the couch, the olympics, and the end of a great day.
Ahhhhhhhh. That was a nice.
Took the day off work so that I might enjoy some time with my family on my Birthday. So, no work for me...it was nice...I haven't taken a full day off of work in a couple weeks.
Slept in a little bit...eventually I rolled out of bed (about 7:30 or so) and made my way out to VCC in Holland. I wanted to do the Bagel Ride...and, I'm glad I did. It was a fun ride. Lots of great people, as usual, a good route, a good pace and a couple sprints to keep things spicey. Had the chance to relive The Incident from the race on Wednesday Night at Grattan (see MC's post on his blog). Lots of trading stories with the gang...and, listening to Aaron and MC tell their tale. Since they actually landed in the pile, their recollection of the events was somewhat more interesting than mine.
After the ride we went to The Good Earth for some breakfast. I had the usual, we traded more stories, I got to hang out with Berger for a while...and we got rained on a little.
Went back to VCC, bought myself a Gift Certificate (don't ask), and hung out for a little bit. Hanging out at VCC is always a fun time...I like to wander and dream about what I would spend my money on if I actually had any. Since I don't have any...I generally have to spend massive amounts of time scrutinizing every detail of every minute purchase; feeling that if I make a mistake I might have wasted a valuable opportunity to spend my money on something better.
After VCC I went home, hopped in the hot tub for a few minutes and hit the showers. Got dressed, got the family packed up the van, and went out to lunch with my parents. They took us out for Olga's...so, I had a Snackers attack. Yummy. Ate enough Snackers to tide me over for about a year.
After lunch I indulged in a nap and a small amount of Olympic coverage. Followed that up with some time in the pool with Davis. Score.
Finally, Karin decided we should go out for a birthday dinner. So, we went back out to Holland and had dinner at 8th st. Grill. And, since I'd already blown any chance of being healthy while at Olga's...I decided to abondon all sense of concern for my health. Oreo Milk Shake? Yep. Olive burger? Don't mind if I do! A couple bowls of Corn Chowder? Yes, please. French fries? Uh huh. It was the whole fat-guy fun pack. I left feeling very happy, and exceptionally fat.
So, how does one follow up a meal like that? Well, we stopped by The Peanut Store. I wanted to buy MC a bag of chocolate covered peanuts...in the hopes that I might make myself feel better about my self indulgence by fattening him up a little too. ;-)
After that, it was time to head home. And, finally...the couch, the olympics, and the end of a great day.
Ahhhhhhhh. That was a nice.
19 August 2008
New Look...same stupid blog
I decided to update the look of my blog a bit. The other one felt a bit dark and a bit busy to me. So, I tried to got with a bit more of a minimalist approach. I like it...Karin didn't seem thrilled. Your thoughts?
Just got done with the Tuesday Night Ride and it was great, as usual. Ride went well, pace was good, company was outstanding. Lots of good conversation...got to talk conditioning, cycling, and olympics with Aaron. Talked kids, school, new bikes, etc with Amy Yarde. Chatted about the upcoming 'cross season with TOM (Mike). And, a little chit chat about literature with Dennis...which seems like a recuring theme with he and I.
Had the chance to hang out in the great weather on the grass after the ride Chatted with friends, swapped some strories and had some laughs. Heather helped me stretch...which means she put the hurtin' on me. Obviously I have some work to do in my attempt to limber up. I expect Heather to make it look easy...she's a yoga instructor. But, Brian makes it look easy too...so, I feel like a real wuss.
Anyway. Fun ride. Quick post (I know. This is like a minor miracle for me, the king of long winded bloggers).
Just got done with the Tuesday Night Ride and it was great, as usual. Ride went well, pace was good, company was outstanding. Lots of good conversation...got to talk conditioning, cycling, and olympics with Aaron. Talked kids, school, new bikes, etc with Amy Yarde. Chatted about the upcoming 'cross season with TOM (Mike). And, a little chit chat about literature with Dennis...which seems like a recuring theme with he and I.
Had the chance to hang out in the great weather on the grass after the ride Chatted with friends, swapped some strories and had some laughs. Heather helped me stretch...which means she put the hurtin' on me. Obviously I have some work to do in my attempt to limber up. I expect Heather to make it look easy...she's a yoga instructor. But, Brian makes it look easy too...so, I feel like a real wuss.
Anyway. Fun ride. Quick post (I know. This is like a minor miracle for me, the king of long winded bloggers).
16 August 2008
Gymlympics
Let me start by saying that I love the Olympics. LOVE them. Every 4 years I get the chance to witness the most spectacular display of athletics that can be found anywhere.
There is nothing in professional sports that compares with Olympic athletics at its highest level.
There is nothing like watching an athlete represent their country.
There is nothing like watching an athlete compete with national pride on the line.
I mean this in the most earnest way possible....the stories found at the Olympics, I believe, are inherently more compelling than in any other form of sports.
Sadly, in spite of the stage being set for some of the most dramatic sports viewing possible, I'm generally disappointed every 4 years. The ingredients are all there...yet, I'm NEVER satisfied. Why? American television coverage.
Rarely does the competition itself disappoint me. In fact, at every Olympics there are heart wrenching, nail biting, inspirational, uplifting stories of accomplishment or failure. Stories that should be told. Unfortunately, we don't get to see any of them. We will receive in-depth coverage of 3 sports.
Gymnastics
Swimming
Track
That's it. If you are able to catch some coverage of another sport...it's because you got lucky. And, I absolutely hate that.
The Olympics represent a rare opportunity to see some of the best drama sports has to offer. And, better yet, offer that drama in a bunch of exotic sports that we rarely get to see. This is a genuine opportunity to watch something fresh, invigorating, exciting, and different. Yet, we don't watch it...because we aren't offered the option.
When NBC announced that it would be filming every single moment of every single event at the Olympics, and that they would be offering that coverage across their full line of channels (NBC, CNBC, MSNBC, Oxygen, TNT, USA, and 3 dedicated HD networks) I was thrilled. "Finally!", I thought to myself.
Sadly, NBC has failed to deliver.
Let me be clear...I love gymnastics, swimming, and track. I desperately want to watch all 3 of these sports. I just don't want to watch ONLY these 3 sports. This is a rare chance to witness drama of athletic endeavor at a world class level in some really cool sports.
Let's discuss what is theoretically available...
Archery - I saw about 5 minutes of coverage of the women's finals at about 2AM on the Oxygen network. The intensity of concentration and level of execution in this sport is mind boggling. I'd certainly have been willing to watch more of it...if there was any.
Badminton - Silly little back yard sport? Yes. But, at the Olympics they are FAST. You've probably never seen it...the only reason I have is because I looked up some coverage on the website. This is a really cool sport at this level.
Baseball - one of the few sports I don't want to watch. We have the rare privilege to watch baseball being played at the highest level in the world for about 9 months out of the year at home. And, I don't even watch that...I sure don't need to watch it at the Olympics. Luckily, it won't be at the Olympics next year.
Basketball - ditto to above. Yet, this sport has an ENTIRE channel dedicated to it in HD. Why?
Beach Volleyball - this does get some occasional coverage. And, boy am I glad. First, its a great sport. Second, girls in bikinis are ALWAYS a good option for TV coverage. Sadly, NBC has been forced to show some men's coverage in an attempt to appear as though their coverage of the women's tournament had something to do with an appreciation of the sport rather than the uniforms.
Boxing - I like Olympic boxing. Its faster and somewhat less violent than standard boxing. For some reason NBC has opted to show nearly non-stop coverage of early round matches on CNBC. Why this sport? Why not mix in some coverage of some other sports too?
Canoe/Kayak - I'd love to see some. We won't.
Cycling - Some passing coverage of the men's road race and the men's Time Trial. Essentially no coverage of the velodrome. Certainly not the level of coverage I would appreciate.
Diving - even though this sport is related to swimming coverage, it still gets very little coverage.
Equestrian - almost no coverage at all, which is too bad. Some of this stuff is pretty cool.
Fencing - One of the coolest sports in the world to watch...gets almost no coverage at all.
Field Hockey - I'd watch this...but, there won't be any coverage.
Gymnastics - umm...all the coverage you could want plus a whole bunch you don't
Handball - another cool sport that won't get any coverage.
Judo - I would love to watch tons of coverage. I bet I won't see a single bout.
Modern Pentathlon - Another really cool sport...the modern adaptation of the original Olympic ideal. Using all the sports that would serve one best in a military setting. Swimming, running, shooting, equestrian...
Rhythmic Gymnastics - I am still a little astonished that this is an Olympic sport. It's not that I don't appreciate the athleticism of it....but, I'm always a bit weary of any "sport" that relies on judges to determine a winner (figure skating, gymnastics, diving). This one, though, seems to have taken the concept to a level that is a little beyond my ability to tolerate. There won't be much coverage of it...but, based on the fact that I don't enjoy watching it I imagine that the 2012 coverage from London will be almost non-stop coverage of this sport.
Rowing - incredibly difficult endurance sport...we'll see almost none of it. I'd watch it all if I could.
Sailing - interesting...I find the whole sailing thing fascinating if only because I know so little about it. So, again, I'd love to watch it. There won't be any coverage.
Shooting - no coverage. I'd watch it...the level of concentration is ridiculous.
Soccer - the worlds most popular sport should get a lot of coverage. I know almost nothing about soccer, but would love to learn. Luckily, one of the 3 dedicated HD channels is a "soccer only" channel. So, I can watch tons of this if I want to.
Softball - see baseball from above.
Swimming - I love swimming...I love Michael Phelps. I love the coverage. But, let's skip televising the preliminary races and use that air time to show some of the sports that get zero coverage.
Synchronized Swimming - see rhythmic gymnastics above
Table Tennis - good old ping-pong. At this level it is so fast and the athletes react so quickly that the human eye can only barely keep up with it. In fact, a few years ago, they IOC changed the size of the ball and made it bigger in an attempt to make it more visible on TV and to slow down the ball a bit. Logic being that they would get longer rallies, people would be able to see it more, and therefore would appreciate it more. Unfortunately, whether we appreciate it or not won't matter...there will be about 5 minutes of coverage at 2 in the morning.
Taekwondo - See Judo above.
Tennis - another of the worlds most popular spectator sports. We will only see the matches that Federer is involved in...and, even that is unlikely.
Track & Field - Track will get an unduly large amount of coverage while field will get almost none. I love watching the races...but, like swimming, lets skip the prelims and use that time to show some Table Tennis or Taekwondo.
Trampoline - Highly under appreciated....Olympic level trampoline is basically like watching the diving competition....except that the dives go on for about 5 minutes. Where as diving you spend 5 minutes listening to announcers drone on about how little Susy from France first got started in diving followed by 2 seconds of actual diving...in Trampoline, the twisting, flipping, insanity goes on and on without stop for whole minutes. Too bad you won't see any of it.
Triathlon - I'd love to watch it. There will be about 2 minutes of coverage...just the last 1/2 mile of the run...and probably only the women's race because they are in bikinis.
Volleyball - Used to see some coverage of this...until beach volleyball came around. You won't see any of this unless you get really lucky.
Water Polo - another really cool sport that will not get any coverage. Sad, really. I love watching these guys...its like a swim meet, hockey game, and wrestling match all rolled in to one and stuck in a really big pool.
Weightlifting - well, this one doesn't do much for me. But, I can still appreciate the athleticism. Sadly, these behemoths will have spent 4 years to prep to win a medal that only 3 people in the world will see on TV.
Wrestling - See Judo, Taekwondo. I'd watch every second of both Greco-Roman and Freestyle if I could. And, that shouldn't be tough to do since there will only be about 30 seconds of coverage.
There is nothing in professional sports that compares with Olympic athletics at its highest level.
There is nothing like watching an athlete represent their country.
There is nothing like watching an athlete compete with national pride on the line.
I mean this in the most earnest way possible....the stories found at the Olympics, I believe, are inherently more compelling than in any other form of sports.
Sadly, in spite of the stage being set for some of the most dramatic sports viewing possible, I'm generally disappointed every 4 years. The ingredients are all there...yet, I'm NEVER satisfied. Why? American television coverage.
Rarely does the competition itself disappoint me. In fact, at every Olympics there are heart wrenching, nail biting, inspirational, uplifting stories of accomplishment or failure. Stories that should be told. Unfortunately, we don't get to see any of them. We will receive in-depth coverage of 3 sports.
Gymnastics
Swimming
Track
That's it. If you are able to catch some coverage of another sport...it's because you got lucky. And, I absolutely hate that.
The Olympics represent a rare opportunity to see some of the best drama sports has to offer. And, better yet, offer that drama in a bunch of exotic sports that we rarely get to see. This is a genuine opportunity to watch something fresh, invigorating, exciting, and different. Yet, we don't watch it...because we aren't offered the option.
When NBC announced that it would be filming every single moment of every single event at the Olympics, and that they would be offering that coverage across their full line of channels (NBC, CNBC, MSNBC, Oxygen, TNT, USA, and 3 dedicated HD networks) I was thrilled. "Finally!", I thought to myself.
Sadly, NBC has failed to deliver.
Let me be clear...I love gymnastics, swimming, and track. I desperately want to watch all 3 of these sports. I just don't want to watch ONLY these 3 sports. This is a rare chance to witness drama of athletic endeavor at a world class level in some really cool sports.
Let's discuss what is theoretically available...
Archery - I saw about 5 minutes of coverage of the women's finals at about 2AM on the Oxygen network. The intensity of concentration and level of execution in this sport is mind boggling. I'd certainly have been willing to watch more of it...if there was any.
Badminton - Silly little back yard sport? Yes. But, at the Olympics they are FAST. You've probably never seen it...the only reason I have is because I looked up some coverage on the website. This is a really cool sport at this level.
Baseball - one of the few sports I don't want to watch. We have the rare privilege to watch baseball being played at the highest level in the world for about 9 months out of the year at home. And, I don't even watch that...I sure don't need to watch it at the Olympics. Luckily, it won't be at the Olympics next year.
Basketball - ditto to above. Yet, this sport has an ENTIRE channel dedicated to it in HD. Why?
Beach Volleyball - this does get some occasional coverage. And, boy am I glad. First, its a great sport. Second, girls in bikinis are ALWAYS a good option for TV coverage. Sadly, NBC has been forced to show some men's coverage in an attempt to appear as though their coverage of the women's tournament had something to do with an appreciation of the sport rather than the uniforms.
Boxing - I like Olympic boxing. Its faster and somewhat less violent than standard boxing. For some reason NBC has opted to show nearly non-stop coverage of early round matches on CNBC. Why this sport? Why not mix in some coverage of some other sports too?
Canoe/Kayak - I'd love to see some. We won't.
Cycling - Some passing coverage of the men's road race and the men's Time Trial. Essentially no coverage of the velodrome. Certainly not the level of coverage I would appreciate.
Diving - even though this sport is related to swimming coverage, it still gets very little coverage.
Equestrian - almost no coverage at all, which is too bad. Some of this stuff is pretty cool.
Fencing - One of the coolest sports in the world to watch...gets almost no coverage at all.
Field Hockey - I'd watch this...but, there won't be any coverage.
Gymnastics - umm...all the coverage you could want plus a whole bunch you don't
Handball - another cool sport that won't get any coverage.
Judo - I would love to watch tons of coverage. I bet I won't see a single bout.
Modern Pentathlon - Another really cool sport...the modern adaptation of the original Olympic ideal. Using all the sports that would serve one best in a military setting. Swimming, running, shooting, equestrian...
Rhythmic Gymnastics - I am still a little astonished that this is an Olympic sport. It's not that I don't appreciate the athleticism of it....but, I'm always a bit weary of any "sport" that relies on judges to determine a winner (figure skating, gymnastics, diving). This one, though, seems to have taken the concept to a level that is a little beyond my ability to tolerate. There won't be much coverage of it...but, based on the fact that I don't enjoy watching it I imagine that the 2012 coverage from London will be almost non-stop coverage of this sport.
Rowing - incredibly difficult endurance sport...we'll see almost none of it. I'd watch it all if I could.
Sailing - interesting...I find the whole sailing thing fascinating if only because I know so little about it. So, again, I'd love to watch it. There won't be any coverage.
Shooting - no coverage. I'd watch it...the level of concentration is ridiculous.
Soccer - the worlds most popular sport should get a lot of coverage. I know almost nothing about soccer, but would love to learn. Luckily, one of the 3 dedicated HD channels is a "soccer only" channel. So, I can watch tons of this if I want to.
Softball - see baseball from above.
Swimming - I love swimming...I love Michael Phelps. I love the coverage. But, let's skip televising the preliminary races and use that air time to show some of the sports that get zero coverage.
Synchronized Swimming - see rhythmic gymnastics above
Table Tennis - good old ping-pong. At this level it is so fast and the athletes react so quickly that the human eye can only barely keep up with it. In fact, a few years ago, they IOC changed the size of the ball and made it bigger in an attempt to make it more visible on TV and to slow down the ball a bit. Logic being that they would get longer rallies, people would be able to see it more, and therefore would appreciate it more. Unfortunately, whether we appreciate it or not won't matter...there will be about 5 minutes of coverage at 2 in the morning.
Taekwondo - See Judo above.
Tennis - another of the worlds most popular spectator sports. We will only see the matches that Federer is involved in...and, even that is unlikely.
Track & Field - Track will get an unduly large amount of coverage while field will get almost none. I love watching the races...but, like swimming, lets skip the prelims and use that time to show some Table Tennis or Taekwondo.
Trampoline - Highly under appreciated....Olympic level trampoline is basically like watching the diving competition....except that the dives go on for about 5 minutes. Where as diving you spend 5 minutes listening to announcers drone on about how little Susy from France first got started in diving followed by 2 seconds of actual diving...in Trampoline, the twisting, flipping, insanity goes on and on without stop for whole minutes. Too bad you won't see any of it.
Triathlon - I'd love to watch it. There will be about 2 minutes of coverage...just the last 1/2 mile of the run...and probably only the women's race because they are in bikinis.
Volleyball - Used to see some coverage of this...until beach volleyball came around. You won't see any of this unless you get really lucky.
Water Polo - another really cool sport that will not get any coverage. Sad, really. I love watching these guys...its like a swim meet, hockey game, and wrestling match all rolled in to one and stuck in a really big pool.
Weightlifting - well, this one doesn't do much for me. But, I can still appreciate the athleticism. Sadly, these behemoths will have spent 4 years to prep to win a medal that only 3 people in the world will see on TV.
Wrestling - See Judo, Taekwondo. I'd watch every second of both Greco-Roman and Freestyle if I could. And, that shouldn't be tough to do since there will only be about 30 seconds of coverage.
15 August 2008
Small bikes, stupid trails, injuries and rides with J2
It's been a while since I've posted up...not due to a lack of things to discuss...just because I'm lazy. Or, busy. Or, stupid. You take your pick.
Small bikes:
I was leaving work the other day. I'd hopped on the Cannondale to ride home...was leaving my parking lot at work, and had just pulled out in to traffic at Lake Eastbrook Dr and 28th St. This is generally one of the more dicey portions of my commute as there is lots of traffic coming from many different directions...most of which are just as happy to run me over as look at me. On this particular day, though, something other than the traffic caught my attention.
There was a man riding a bike from one parking lot to another in roughly the same area I was riding. Sadly, the traffic prevented me from hauling out my camera and snapping off a picture...as it assuredly would have been an amusing one. But, in the interests of expressing the situation to you, my loyal reader, I will paint as vibrant a picture as I may using my semi limited vocabulary.
This man was on a bike...a bright purple bike with yellow and white daisies painted on it. There was a white faux-wicker basket on the front, and it had white tires that appeared to be approaching the end of their life cycle. What was particularly interesting about this fairly large man on this fairly feminine bike was that it was exactly that...a feminine bike. It was a 16" barbie bike of the type sold at Wal-Mart or Target. No. Seriously. My first impression was that this a-hole had stolen some 7 year olds Barbie bike and was riding it to make his get-away. Where are the police when you need them? Probably too busy staging SWAT raids on MC's street in a veiled attempt to obtain further evidence of our subversive cycling activities.
After another 2 seconds of inspection of this mans bicycle I realized that he couldn't have stolen it. In an astonishing fete of bicycle engineering, this man had fit himself to a little girls bike. He had attached a seat post that was easily 2' in length...possibly more. And, had replaced the handlebars with a set of old-school 70's style ape hangers. The kind where you would normally be grabbing on the the grips at about ear level. Except, since this bike was so short, his ape hangers really only came up to about his waste. What I found particularly interesting was that he had replaced the original pedals. Pedals which were designed to fit a 7 year old foot, with standard platform pedals from an adult bike. However, the crank arms and drive train remained completely stock. Thus, he was pedaling like mad to go about 10mph. I believe he was pushing a cadence in the 110-115 range in order to "hurry" across the busy section of the bank parking lot.
As I stared with what must have been a fairly amusing slack-jawed, stupefied look upon my face, this 'cyclist' of sorts looked over and made eye contact with me. His reaction?
"Nice day for a ride!" he stated cheerfully.
I didn't reply...I just was lost for words. What would have been an appropriate response?
Riding with J2:
Last Sunday I had the privilege of riding with J2. While all the Asheville portion of the JDRF team was in recovery and slowly making the journey back to West Michigan, J2 and I had simultaneously concluded that there was not Sunday ride planned. And, that simply would not do.
John and I met at my house at Noon-ish and set out for a 60-ish mile trip to Grand Haven and back. And, I had a blast!
We had a few exciting moments as we dodged through traffic at the US31 interchange in Spring Lake and then hopped on the Draw Bridge to make our way South in the Grand Haven. But, other than that, the ride went really smoothly.
The wind was pretty heavy out of the Northwest, which meant the ride on the way out was a bit tough. But, it meant that we got to go check out the big rolling waves on the lake...and, they were HUGE.
Wind helped us out on the way home and we made pretty good time...the total route finished in the 65 mile range...and we hustled for a good portion of it.
All-in-all, it was a ton of fun. J2 rocks!
Injuries:
So, my knee has been screwed up for about 10 days now. It took a little time fo the Dr. to figure out what the issue was...but, now I'm pretty sure we've got it nailed.
Some sort of an issue with how tight the muscles and tendons are in my left leg. Basically, it is so tight and out of place that the tendon that runs on the front, inside of my knee is causing my kneecap to track incorrectly. That incorrect tracking means that the cartilage is inflamed and is sensitive, plus the bones around the knee area are clipping the edge of my knee cap as it passes over the bones when I bend my knee.
In short, it hurts a lot every time I move it.
Doc put me on a 10 day regimen of 2400 mg of Ibuprofen. 30 minutes of icing it daily. And, solid routine of stretching.
The stretching made an immediate and sustained difference...my knee feels MUCH better after I started stretching in the last couple days.
I should be back in action on Sunday. Provided I don't do something stupid to injure myself in the meantime.
Stupid Trails:
So, I thought it would be a good idea to take my kids out for a bike ride today. And, in the interests of giving them a bit more freedom from traffic, I thought we'd just head over to Kent Trails for a ride. My thought was that the kids would enjoy being able to ride on a trail were they essentially "owned the road".
Well...I still think they might have. If we could have found the trail.
My plan was to give the new-ish section of Kent Trails along M6 a try. I knew that it connected to the old section of Kent Trails as it heads south of 60th St. Unfortunately, there are no good places to park and hop on Kent trails as it moves south through the residential area in Grandville. I didn't want to park in some guys yard and then hop on the trail. So, I decided we would just go park at the new Metro hospital along M6 and just catch the trail from there.
The problem?
You can't get to the trail from anywhere along there. Seriously...the hospital? No access. The new Hyatt Place hotel being built? No access to the trail. The City of Wyoming kids park? No access. The newly built ITT Technical School? No access.
Ok, ok. We'll just ride back toward Byron Center road and catch the sidewalk heading south. From there we'll hop on the trail from where it crosses Byron Center. Sadly...there is no sidewalk. And, there is no place to connect with the trail unless you are willing to hop out in to traffic.
In short, this is a trail with no access. You can't actually get on to the trail from anywhere...at least, no where near the most populous area the trail passes through.
Now, forgive me if I am just being a bit dense. I assure you I'm not being willful. I legitimately am failing to understand. Why in the world would we have built a trail that doesn't actually allow anyone to use to get from anywhere to anywhere that is actually on the trail?
I've always viewed "bike trails" as being great for recreational purposes or for commuting in the very narrow circumstance in which you live and work along the trail. But, they've never really seemed useful to me...partly because they don't appear to be terribly safe if you're planning to ride at speed, and partly because they just aren't practical as a route for my commute. I don't live along the trail. I don't work along the trail. And, the trails in my area don't actually go in a direction that I ever need to go. So, I just have no need for them.
But, I've generally been willing to defend the expense to build them because I understand that they may have a use for some people.
Out for a ride with your kids? Use a trail. Nice Sunday ride on your cruiser bike? Use a trail. Rollerblading? Use a trail. Out for a walk? Use a trail. Out for a run/jog? Use a trail.
There are all kinds of people who might use a trail for plenty of valuable reasons.
But, if our community is going to build a trail that runs along a highway, passing through some of the most populous areas on the South-West side of town...you'd think that we'd want to make that trail accessible to the people in that area. There is a huge new hospital right there. How many of the staff working at that hospital, whose parking lot has Kent Trails pass directly through it, would ride their bikes to work? Well, none right now...because, in spite of the fact that the trail passes with 5' of their parking lot...there is no way to get from the trail to the parking lot. The whole trail is fenced off...on both sides. What's the point? How many people are going to stay in that Hyatt Place hotel who might want to use the trail for a jog or a ride? Too bad...you can't get there from here.
I'm failing...completely and utterly...to understand the purpose of this trail.
And, to be quite honest...this isn't the prettiest section of trail in history. It's along a highway...not known for its sublime beauty or breathtaking scenery. And, the whole thing is fenced in on both sides to within 6" of edge of the pavement. The combined effect of lots of pavement, cement, inaccessible buildings, and fences leaves one with the impression of a prison yard.
So...if you'd like to know what it would be like to spend time in the clink...check out the new section of trail along M6.
If you're looking for a place to take the kids for a bike ride...probably better look someplace else.
Small bikes:
I was leaving work the other day. I'd hopped on the Cannondale to ride home...was leaving my parking lot at work, and had just pulled out in to traffic at Lake Eastbrook Dr and 28th St. This is generally one of the more dicey portions of my commute as there is lots of traffic coming from many different directions...most of which are just as happy to run me over as look at me. On this particular day, though, something other than the traffic caught my attention.
There was a man riding a bike from one parking lot to another in roughly the same area I was riding. Sadly, the traffic prevented me from hauling out my camera and snapping off a picture...as it assuredly would have been an amusing one. But, in the interests of expressing the situation to you, my loyal reader, I will paint as vibrant a picture as I may using my semi limited vocabulary.
This man was on a bike...a bright purple bike with yellow and white daisies painted on it. There was a white faux-wicker basket on the front, and it had white tires that appeared to be approaching the end of their life cycle. What was particularly interesting about this fairly large man on this fairly feminine bike was that it was exactly that...a feminine bike. It was a 16" barbie bike of the type sold at Wal-Mart or Target. No. Seriously. My first impression was that this a-hole had stolen some 7 year olds Barbie bike and was riding it to make his get-away. Where are the police when you need them? Probably too busy staging SWAT raids on MC's street in a veiled attempt to obtain further evidence of our subversive cycling activities.
After another 2 seconds of inspection of this mans bicycle I realized that he couldn't have stolen it. In an astonishing fete of bicycle engineering, this man had fit himself to a little girls bike. He had attached a seat post that was easily 2' in length...possibly more. And, had replaced the handlebars with a set of old-school 70's style ape hangers. The kind where you would normally be grabbing on the the grips at about ear level. Except, since this bike was so short, his ape hangers really only came up to about his waste. What I found particularly interesting was that he had replaced the original pedals. Pedals which were designed to fit a 7 year old foot, with standard platform pedals from an adult bike. However, the crank arms and drive train remained completely stock. Thus, he was pedaling like mad to go about 10mph. I believe he was pushing a cadence in the 110-115 range in order to "hurry" across the busy section of the bank parking lot.
As I stared with what must have been a fairly amusing slack-jawed, stupefied look upon my face, this 'cyclist' of sorts looked over and made eye contact with me. His reaction?
"Nice day for a ride!" he stated cheerfully.
I didn't reply...I just was lost for words. What would have been an appropriate response?
Riding with J2:
Last Sunday I had the privilege of riding with J2. While all the Asheville portion of the JDRF team was in recovery and slowly making the journey back to West Michigan, J2 and I had simultaneously concluded that there was not Sunday ride planned. And, that simply would not do.
John and I met at my house at Noon-ish and set out for a 60-ish mile trip to Grand Haven and back. And, I had a blast!
We had a few exciting moments as we dodged through traffic at the US31 interchange in Spring Lake and then hopped on the Draw Bridge to make our way South in the Grand Haven. But, other than that, the ride went really smoothly.
The wind was pretty heavy out of the Northwest, which meant the ride on the way out was a bit tough. But, it meant that we got to go check out the big rolling waves on the lake...and, they were HUGE.
Wind helped us out on the way home and we made pretty good time...the total route finished in the 65 mile range...and we hustled for a good portion of it.
All-in-all, it was a ton of fun. J2 rocks!
Injuries:
So, my knee has been screwed up for about 10 days now. It took a little time fo the Dr. to figure out what the issue was...but, now I'm pretty sure we've got it nailed.
Some sort of an issue with how tight the muscles and tendons are in my left leg. Basically, it is so tight and out of place that the tendon that runs on the front, inside of my knee is causing my kneecap to track incorrectly. That incorrect tracking means that the cartilage is inflamed and is sensitive, plus the bones around the knee area are clipping the edge of my knee cap as it passes over the bones when I bend my knee.
In short, it hurts a lot every time I move it.
Doc put me on a 10 day regimen of 2400 mg of Ibuprofen. 30 minutes of icing it daily. And, solid routine of stretching.
The stretching made an immediate and sustained difference...my knee feels MUCH better after I started stretching in the last couple days.
I should be back in action on Sunday. Provided I don't do something stupid to injure myself in the meantime.
Stupid Trails:
So, I thought it would be a good idea to take my kids out for a bike ride today. And, in the interests of giving them a bit more freedom from traffic, I thought we'd just head over to Kent Trails for a ride. My thought was that the kids would enjoy being able to ride on a trail were they essentially "owned the road".
Well...I still think they might have. If we could have found the trail.
My plan was to give the new-ish section of Kent Trails along M6 a try. I knew that it connected to the old section of Kent Trails as it heads south of 60th St. Unfortunately, there are no good places to park and hop on Kent trails as it moves south through the residential area in Grandville. I didn't want to park in some guys yard and then hop on the trail. So, I decided we would just go park at the new Metro hospital along M6 and just catch the trail from there.
The problem?
You can't get to the trail from anywhere along there. Seriously...the hospital? No access. The new Hyatt Place hotel being built? No access to the trail. The City of Wyoming kids park? No access. The newly built ITT Technical School? No access.
Ok, ok. We'll just ride back toward Byron Center road and catch the sidewalk heading south. From there we'll hop on the trail from where it crosses Byron Center. Sadly...there is no sidewalk. And, there is no place to connect with the trail unless you are willing to hop out in to traffic.
In short, this is a trail with no access. You can't actually get on to the trail from anywhere...at least, no where near the most populous area the trail passes through.
Now, forgive me if I am just being a bit dense. I assure you I'm not being willful. I legitimately am failing to understand. Why in the world would we have built a trail that doesn't actually allow anyone to use to get from anywhere to anywhere that is actually on the trail?
I've always viewed "bike trails" as being great for recreational purposes or for commuting in the very narrow circumstance in which you live and work along the trail. But, they've never really seemed useful to me...partly because they don't appear to be terribly safe if you're planning to ride at speed, and partly because they just aren't practical as a route for my commute. I don't live along the trail. I don't work along the trail. And, the trails in my area don't actually go in a direction that I ever need to go. So, I just have no need for them.
But, I've generally been willing to defend the expense to build them because I understand that they may have a use for some people.
Out for a ride with your kids? Use a trail. Nice Sunday ride on your cruiser bike? Use a trail. Rollerblading? Use a trail. Out for a walk? Use a trail. Out for a run/jog? Use a trail.
There are all kinds of people who might use a trail for plenty of valuable reasons.
But, if our community is going to build a trail that runs along a highway, passing through some of the most populous areas on the South-West side of town...you'd think that we'd want to make that trail accessible to the people in that area. There is a huge new hospital right there. How many of the staff working at that hospital, whose parking lot has Kent Trails pass directly through it, would ride their bikes to work? Well, none right now...because, in spite of the fact that the trail passes with 5' of their parking lot...there is no way to get from the trail to the parking lot. The whole trail is fenced off...on both sides. What's the point? How many people are going to stay in that Hyatt Place hotel who might want to use the trail for a jog or a ride? Too bad...you can't get there from here.
I'm failing...completely and utterly...to understand the purpose of this trail.
And, to be quite honest...this isn't the prettiest section of trail in history. It's along a highway...not known for its sublime beauty or breathtaking scenery. And, the whole thing is fenced in on both sides to within 6" of edge of the pavement. The combined effect of lots of pavement, cement, inaccessible buildings, and fences leaves one with the impression of a prison yard.
So...if you'd like to know what it would be like to spend time in the clink...check out the new section of trail along M6.
If you're looking for a place to take the kids for a bike ride...probably better look someplace else.
09 August 2008
Sunday Ride.
Hey all...I'm going to do a ride tomorrow afternoon from my house. So, for those of you who didn't get to have any fun in Asheville...come on over and ride with me!
I'm thining about something in the early afternoon. But, I'm open to moving that around to suit the needs of the people who want to attend. The earliest I could go would be about 11AM. And, I'm willin to go as late as is needed.
If we have a few people who are interested in 60sih miles, we could do the route from my house out to Grand Haven and back.
Comment on here or email me - ceningolmo @ sbcglobal.net if you are interested.
I'm thining about something in the early afternoon. But, I'm open to moving that around to suit the needs of the people who want to attend. The earliest I could go would be about 11AM. And, I'm willin to go as late as is needed.
If we have a few people who are interested in 60sih miles, we could do the route from my house out to Grand Haven and back.
Comment on here or email me - ceningolmo @ sbcglobal.net if you are interested.
07 August 2008
05 August 2008
100 Miles of misery
Sunday was a beautiful day...sadly, I ruined it by bonking during the last 10 miles. Luckily I don't bonk very often...but, each time I do...I am reminded of why we try so hard to avoid it.
I'm pretty sure that if I took all of the misery of a weeks worth of riding and bottled it...that would be a beverage called "BONK".
Anyway. I took off early (5:30AMish) on Sunday morning on my Volpe. It was COLD...well, cold for this time of year. 54 degrees when I left my house. That meant I hauled out the knee warmers and my Zephyr vest. ANd, I was wishing I had arm warmers. My theory for doing a long ride on the Volpe was this; it weighs nearly double what the CAAD9 weighs and, therefore, should make the CAAD9 feel faster when I get back on it. So, I left my house to head for MC's house. About a 25ish mile ride for me.
Upon arrival I found the SWAT team outside his door. Sadly, I was actually releaved to find out all those police cars and flashing lights were for the SWAT team. As I was riding toward his house I was very nervous that the flashers ahead were an ambulance...knowing that a small group of cyclists would be meeting us there I was very afraid that one of them had gotten pegged by a car. Luckily, no one who isn't a drug dealer/wife beater/local thug was harmed.
I don't actually know why they were there. They appeared to be setting up a small arsenal with which to storm the house on the corner (about 3 houses down from MC). For all I know there was an Al Qaeda splinter cell working out of there and we are now all safer Americans. Or, this was just an elaborate set up for Big Brother to watch MC's cycling activities and document some of his known associates. We cyclists do represent a dangerous counter culture...taking up space on the road, annoying drivers, going slower than motorized traffic, saving money, reducing carbon emmissions, reducing noise, getting exercise...and this may have been the initial stages of a serious crackdown on the Holland cycling ring. I'd better start sleeping with one eye open. I think The Man is trying to hold me down.
Anyway...I did 25 miles on the Volpe. But, since this was the first time I'd ridden the Volpe for about 5 weeks, I totally forgot to prep it. So, I was trying to remember headlights, taillights (I was leaving in the dark), and anything else I might need. What I forgot was a water bottle. And, breakfast. Ooops.
I was able to borrow a bottle from MC when I got to his house. I'm sure SWAT has photo documentation of the transactio. So, I was able to hydrate on the next leg of the journey.
Next step was to do a 25ish mile trip from MC's house to O'Connor Castle just south of Fennville. I was able to convince the gang (MC, Brad, Rob, J2, Brian and Heather) to wait a second while I ran in to the 64th St. bakery and grab a bagel. And, by this time, the sun was up, the temp was up, and life was good. By this time I'd stripped the knee warmers and vest. I finished a whole bottle of water, a small OJ and a bagel on the way down. SO, I was hoping that was catching up on the hydration.
After meeting the rest of the gang from JDRF West Michigan team...we went out for our training ride. PLan was about 45ish miles of lovely Allegan county riding. And, it was exactly that. Lovely. And, it involved riding.
I must admit I was thoroughly enjoying myself other than that tell-tale sign dehydration. I was feeling thirsty. I was starting to feel a little low on energy. And, I was starting to get hungry.
About 20 miles in we stopped for a few minutes because, sadly, we had a couple riders take a fall. During the stop I borrowed a couple bucks from Rob Andro and bought myself a gatorade and granola bar. But, at this point, I believe I was just delaying the innevitable.
The rest of the ride went fairly smooth. I was able to hook up with Brad and we started riding a pace that was a bit more brisk...which I was happy about. After a final water/bathroom break in Douglas...the group hit the road again and I hooked up with Derek, Brad, and Janet and John Jasker.
I always feel lucky when I get to ride with good people. And, this was no exception. I couldn't have had a better group to ride with...but, this time in particular I felt lucky.
With about 10 miles to go I hit THE WALL. I mean... any sense of doubt or nagging thirst/hunger went away and was replaced with a complete and total sense of exhaustion. A sort of park-the-bike-and-lay-down-on-the-side-of-the-road-for-a-nap type of exhaustion.
I just had nothing left...it was full bonk. The group realized they dropped me...and, Derek came back to drag me back up to Brad and the Jaskers. Brad gave me some hammer gel that might well have saved my life. And, after that, I just hung on. I got in to Jaskers draft...and did my best to keep the bike upright. And, it was harder than I can explain.
In the end I made it back to O'Connor Castle where cool beverages, grilled food, and a clear pool awaited. ANd, I indulged in all that was offered. Recovery was fast...I believe the pool helped a lot.
Total mileage ended at about 95 or so...just shy of the 100 I was aiming for. But, near enough as is no matter.
The rest of the afternoon was spent lounging, swimming, and eating in the company of friends. Life was good...other than the bonk.
The best I can do to describe the way I felt about 5 miles from the end was this...
I knew there was a pool at the end of the journey. And, with about 5 miles to go, I was ready to just park the bike and lay down. In fact, I would have just parked, layed down, and called it a day. And, had it been possible for someone to offer me a pool on that spot...that very spot...I would have paid whatever was necessary. I would have, in a semi-delusional state, handed my credit card to anyone who could make it happen and told them I didn't care what it costs. Just make it so that there was a pool right there...on the side of the road where I was laying. Whatever you needed to charge me was fine. Just so long as there was a pool on that spot, right then, so I could cool off, drink water, and not ride my bike anymore.
Instead...I blearily steered my bike to follow Jaskers lead for that 5 miles as I attempted to get to the pool at the end. It was 5 miles...about 18 minutes...of misery. Somewhere during that 18ish minutes I vaguely remember seeing MC ride past me in the other direction. He must have been on his way out to check on the group after he had helped our fallen brethren (and sistren?). MC saw me in my state of considerable distress. His reaction? Well...I was fairly out of it at this point, but I'm pretty sure I remember him pointing and laughing at me as he rode past.
Much to the shegrin of Mrs. Clark, I forgave him this transgression. I didn't mind being pointed and laughed at for a couple of reasons. First, I'm sure I deserved it for not planning food, liquid, and physical conditioning correctly. Second, he saw that I was in good hands. It was pretty clear that J2, Derek, and Brad were going to see me through to the end. Third, we were pretty close to the end and he probably figured I could just about coast home from there. Finally, and most importantly, I had to forgive him because I would have done the same to him. What? It's funny. As long as you aren't the one bonking...the whole situation is pretty hilarious.
As an after thought to this epic post, I feel obligated to comment on something Brian Bowe said to me. We were at the party after the ride, relaxing, eating, recovering, lounging, swimming, etc. A couple people were discussing with me the fact that MC had given me the "point and laugh". I was lamenting my complete bonk-age and that I felt pretty silly. It was somewhere in this discussion that Brian said he was a bit "tickled" to see that I had bonked. By his explanation, he was under the impression that I was able to ride along, putting in miles, with only a theoretical end at which I might stop. To quote Mr. Bowe, "I thought you were able to just keep riding right off the edge of the earth. It's nice to know you're human."
I found his sentiments somewhat amusing and complimentary. Obviously I wasn't concerned that he was "tickled" at my bonk. He rides as much as I do and knows what it is like...he thought it was funny for the same reason I did. And, I felt complimented that someone thought so highly of my riding. Not that he called me his hero or anything...but, in terms of cycling, he sentiments were a bit of a compliment. But, also, I thought it was amusing that someone viewed the miles I put in as being effortless on some level. As though I could just keep riding forever with no real repurcussions. To be honest, I find this funny because it is in such stark contrast to how I actually feel while I am riding. There is nothing about the miles I put in that feels effortless and I assure you that there is most certainly a limit at which I must stop...in fact, I reach it quite often. Apparently I've just avoided having one of those moments in front of Brian. I've managed to remain composed and in control of my longing desire to GASP for OXYGEN while he is around. Score. I've got someone fooled!
Contrary to Brian's comments, I am certainly human. Abundently so...as I often prove. One only needs to attend a Wednesday evening at Grattan to see me prove just exactly how human I actually am. I'm far more human than many others I ride with...Frank, MC, Greg, Aaron, KP, Da'Ve, etc. These are people who can drop me like a bad habit and who don't appear to really even have to work very hard to do it.
Anyway...thanks Brian. Your comments sort of made my day. And, in the end, the last few miles were torture and I did find the pool. But, on the plus side, it was free. I didn't have to pay anyone to make a road-side pool for me.
I'm pretty sure that if I took all of the misery of a weeks worth of riding and bottled it...that would be a beverage called "BONK".
Anyway. I took off early (5:30AMish) on Sunday morning on my Volpe. It was COLD...well, cold for this time of year. 54 degrees when I left my house. That meant I hauled out the knee warmers and my Zephyr vest. ANd, I was wishing I had arm warmers. My theory for doing a long ride on the Volpe was this; it weighs nearly double what the CAAD9 weighs and, therefore, should make the CAAD9 feel faster when I get back on it. So, I left my house to head for MC's house. About a 25ish mile ride for me.
Upon arrival I found the SWAT team outside his door. Sadly, I was actually releaved to find out all those police cars and flashing lights were for the SWAT team. As I was riding toward his house I was very nervous that the flashers ahead were an ambulance...knowing that a small group of cyclists would be meeting us there I was very afraid that one of them had gotten pegged by a car. Luckily, no one who isn't a drug dealer/wife beater/local thug was harmed.
I don't actually know why they were there. They appeared to be setting up a small arsenal with which to storm the house on the corner (about 3 houses down from MC). For all I know there was an Al Qaeda splinter cell working out of there and we are now all safer Americans. Or, this was just an elaborate set up for Big Brother to watch MC's cycling activities and document some of his known associates. We cyclists do represent a dangerous counter culture...taking up space on the road, annoying drivers, going slower than motorized traffic, saving money, reducing carbon emmissions, reducing noise, getting exercise...and this may have been the initial stages of a serious crackdown on the Holland cycling ring. I'd better start sleeping with one eye open. I think The Man is trying to hold me down.
Anyway...I did 25 miles on the Volpe. But, since this was the first time I'd ridden the Volpe for about 5 weeks, I totally forgot to prep it. So, I was trying to remember headlights, taillights (I was leaving in the dark), and anything else I might need. What I forgot was a water bottle. And, breakfast. Ooops.
I was able to borrow a bottle from MC when I got to his house. I'm sure SWAT has photo documentation of the transactio. So, I was able to hydrate on the next leg of the journey.
Next step was to do a 25ish mile trip from MC's house to O'Connor Castle just south of Fennville. I was able to convince the gang (MC, Brad, Rob, J2, Brian and Heather) to wait a second while I ran in to the 64th St. bakery and grab a bagel. And, by this time, the sun was up, the temp was up, and life was good. By this time I'd stripped the knee warmers and vest. I finished a whole bottle of water, a small OJ and a bagel on the way down. SO, I was hoping that was catching up on the hydration.
After meeting the rest of the gang from JDRF West Michigan team...we went out for our training ride. PLan was about 45ish miles of lovely Allegan county riding. And, it was exactly that. Lovely. And, it involved riding.
I must admit I was thoroughly enjoying myself other than that tell-tale sign dehydration. I was feeling thirsty. I was starting to feel a little low on energy. And, I was starting to get hungry.
About 20 miles in we stopped for a few minutes because, sadly, we had a couple riders take a fall. During the stop I borrowed a couple bucks from Rob Andro and bought myself a gatorade and granola bar. But, at this point, I believe I was just delaying the innevitable.
The rest of the ride went fairly smooth. I was able to hook up with Brad and we started riding a pace that was a bit more brisk...which I was happy about. After a final water/bathroom break in Douglas...the group hit the road again and I hooked up with Derek, Brad, and Janet and John Jasker.
I always feel lucky when I get to ride with good people. And, this was no exception. I couldn't have had a better group to ride with...but, this time in particular I felt lucky.
With about 10 miles to go I hit THE WALL. I mean... any sense of doubt or nagging thirst/hunger went away and was replaced with a complete and total sense of exhaustion. A sort of park-the-bike-and-lay-down-on-the-side-of-the-road-for-a-nap type of exhaustion.
I just had nothing left...it was full bonk. The group realized they dropped me...and, Derek came back to drag me back up to Brad and the Jaskers. Brad gave me some hammer gel that might well have saved my life. And, after that, I just hung on. I got in to Jaskers draft...and did my best to keep the bike upright. And, it was harder than I can explain.
In the end I made it back to O'Connor Castle where cool beverages, grilled food, and a clear pool awaited. ANd, I indulged in all that was offered. Recovery was fast...I believe the pool helped a lot.
Total mileage ended at about 95 or so...just shy of the 100 I was aiming for. But, near enough as is no matter.
The rest of the afternoon was spent lounging, swimming, and eating in the company of friends. Life was good...other than the bonk.
The best I can do to describe the way I felt about 5 miles from the end was this...
I knew there was a pool at the end of the journey. And, with about 5 miles to go, I was ready to just park the bike and lay down. In fact, I would have just parked, layed down, and called it a day. And, had it been possible for someone to offer me a pool on that spot...that very spot...I would have paid whatever was necessary. I would have, in a semi-delusional state, handed my credit card to anyone who could make it happen and told them I didn't care what it costs. Just make it so that there was a pool right there...on the side of the road where I was laying. Whatever you needed to charge me was fine. Just so long as there was a pool on that spot, right then, so I could cool off, drink water, and not ride my bike anymore.
Instead...I blearily steered my bike to follow Jaskers lead for that 5 miles as I attempted to get to the pool at the end. It was 5 miles...about 18 minutes...of misery. Somewhere during that 18ish minutes I vaguely remember seeing MC ride past me in the other direction. He must have been on his way out to check on the group after he had helped our fallen brethren (and sistren?). MC saw me in my state of considerable distress. His reaction? Well...I was fairly out of it at this point, but I'm pretty sure I remember him pointing and laughing at me as he rode past.
Much to the shegrin of Mrs. Clark, I forgave him this transgression. I didn't mind being pointed and laughed at for a couple of reasons. First, I'm sure I deserved it for not planning food, liquid, and physical conditioning correctly. Second, he saw that I was in good hands. It was pretty clear that J2, Derek, and Brad were going to see me through to the end. Third, we were pretty close to the end and he probably figured I could just about coast home from there. Finally, and most importantly, I had to forgive him because I would have done the same to him. What? It's funny. As long as you aren't the one bonking...the whole situation is pretty hilarious.
As an after thought to this epic post, I feel obligated to comment on something Brian Bowe said to me. We were at the party after the ride, relaxing, eating, recovering, lounging, swimming, etc. A couple people were discussing with me the fact that MC had given me the "point and laugh". I was lamenting my complete bonk-age and that I felt pretty silly. It was somewhere in this discussion that Brian said he was a bit "tickled" to see that I had bonked. By his explanation, he was under the impression that I was able to ride along, putting in miles, with only a theoretical end at which I might stop. To quote Mr. Bowe, "I thought you were able to just keep riding right off the edge of the earth. It's nice to know you're human."
I found his sentiments somewhat amusing and complimentary. Obviously I wasn't concerned that he was "tickled" at my bonk. He rides as much as I do and knows what it is like...he thought it was funny for the same reason I did. And, I felt complimented that someone thought so highly of my riding. Not that he called me his hero or anything...but, in terms of cycling, he sentiments were a bit of a compliment. But, also, I thought it was amusing that someone viewed the miles I put in as being effortless on some level. As though I could just keep riding forever with no real repurcussions. To be honest, I find this funny because it is in such stark contrast to how I actually feel while I am riding. There is nothing about the miles I put in that feels effortless and I assure you that there is most certainly a limit at which I must stop...in fact, I reach it quite often. Apparently I've just avoided having one of those moments in front of Brian. I've managed to remain composed and in control of my longing desire to GASP for OXYGEN while he is around. Score. I've got someone fooled!
Contrary to Brian's comments, I am certainly human. Abundently so...as I often prove. One only needs to attend a Wednesday evening at Grattan to see me prove just exactly how human I actually am. I'm far more human than many others I ride with...Frank, MC, Greg, Aaron, KP, Da'Ve, etc. These are people who can drop me like a bad habit and who don't appear to really even have to work very hard to do it.
Anyway...thanks Brian. Your comments sort of made my day. And, in the end, the last few miles were torture and I did find the pool. But, on the plus side, it was free. I didn't have to pay anyone to make a road-side pool for me.
31 July 2008
800+ Miles in July
Well..according to my Training Journal on www.mapmyride.com, I've put in 803 miles in July. And, the journal tends to read my mileage just a bit short because of the conversion from my GPS to the mapping software. So, the total is probably a little higher than that...possibly as much as 825 for July.
Not bad!
Now, it's time to get a bit more focused and start treating my body a little better.
Yesterday night I was feeling like I was at an all time low. And, that had a lot to do with my performance in the race last night. But, it had even more to do with some other things I've had going on at work. Especially yesterday.
I only slept about 3 hours on Tuesday night. And, because I was heavily stressed about some things I needed to do at work on Wednesday, I never ate anything. No breakfast. No lunch. By about 4:30 I was exhausted from a lack of food and liquids and the stress of work.
When I hopped in my car at 5:30 to head to Grattan...I was in rough shape. So, I stopped at the gas station and bought a snickers and a Mt. Dew in the hopes that some sugar and some caffeine might get me through the race.
Obviously that didn't work.
Today I feel a little better. And, looking back at it, I realize that I am not in good enough physical condition to mistreat my body so badly and still expect to be competitive. 3 hours of sleep, stress, no food, and no energy means all bad news for me.
But, now that I've looked at my July mileage total...I realize that I've had a great month. So, I'm not going to stress out about last night.
What I am going to do is be a bit more diligent about preparing for rides. I need to be MUCH more conscious about my food intake. I need to do a better job of getting enough sleep. And, I need settle back in to a rhythm at work that will allow me to work in a slightly lower stress environment.
Not bad!
Now, it's time to get a bit more focused and start treating my body a little better.
Yesterday night I was feeling like I was at an all time low. And, that had a lot to do with my performance in the race last night. But, it had even more to do with some other things I've had going on at work. Especially yesterday.
I only slept about 3 hours on Tuesday night. And, because I was heavily stressed about some things I needed to do at work on Wednesday, I never ate anything. No breakfast. No lunch. By about 4:30 I was exhausted from a lack of food and liquids and the stress of work.
When I hopped in my car at 5:30 to head to Grattan...I was in rough shape. So, I stopped at the gas station and bought a snickers and a Mt. Dew in the hopes that some sugar and some caffeine might get me through the race.
Obviously that didn't work.
Today I feel a little better. And, looking back at it, I realize that I am not in good enough physical condition to mistreat my body so badly and still expect to be competitive. 3 hours of sleep, stress, no food, and no energy means all bad news for me.
But, now that I've looked at my July mileage total...I realize that I've had a great month. So, I'm not going to stress out about last night.
What I am going to do is be a bit more diligent about preparing for rides. I need to be MUCH more conscious about my food intake. I need to do a better job of getting enough sleep. And, I need settle back in to a rhythm at work that will allow me to work in a slightly lower stress environment.
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