I'm reasonably impressed with my ability to collect music based on the same set of criteria that Pandora uses.
Here is the thing. I have a huge collection of music that I like...and, I've started radio stations for a good majority of them on Pandora. Pandora, being the rockin' system that MC said it was has done an excellent job of recommending artists/songs of a similar ilk to my chosen brand. What is interesting about that particular point, though, is that much of what it is recommending to me...I already own. In fact, I've already created another station with that artist in mind as well.
That is not to say that Pandora hasn't done a great job of pointing me in the direction of some Artists that I haven't had previous exposure to, because it has. It's turned me on to a few things that I really like but had previously not heard.
What I find interesting is the amount of crossover in recommendations between what Pandora thinks I should like and what I actually do like. I've had a number of times when I'm listening to a station and I will have 6-8 songs in a row come on that not only have I heard, not only do I like, but that I have liked enough to have already dedicated a station to elsewhere in my profile. I guess that means that I have been subconciously finding out, for years now, that I tend to like the same style of music.
I suppose one might see that as a good or a bad thing. Depends on your perspective I suppose. Either that means that I'm just boring...that my tastes tend to run on to the same type of thing over and over again. That I'm lacking in musical diversity. Monotony, after all, is the hobgoblin of small minds (or something similar).
Or, it means that I have a highly tuned sense of my own tastes and that I have spent years refining my musical collection.
Probably it means I'm just a boring ass...and I should quit worrying about it.
I should take this moment to state that, although most of my tastes have run very similar, I do have some items on my Pandora lists that are wildly different than the rest. Thus, I am claiming that my tastes are somewhat eclectic...in spite of my above ramblings.
You will find a noteable lack of country music (with the exception of Johnny Cash), boy bands, pop music (nearly anything you might hear on the radio), lesbian rock (you'd need to check my wifes Pandora list for that stuff), or show tunes. Sorry...no Rodgers and Hammerstein for me. I just don't spend enough time on self grooming or fashion to enjoy show tunes. Not theres anything wrong with that.
29 April 2008
Redundancy - Weather as a topic on my Blog
I know weather is a recurring theme on my blog. So, if you're sick of reading about it...get over it.
I once had a teacher tell me that the trees are smarter than we are...
Every year we seem to be confused by the onset of Spring and Fall. That somehow Spring doesn't arrive early enough and that fall sneaks up on us. And, perhaps that is true...Summer does tend to lull me in to a sense of sleep regarding the weather. It feels as though every day should be 78 degrees and sunny. Why wouldn't it be?
But, according to the teacher I once had...there is no great mystery to this topic. He said that spring and fall are, in fact, remarkably reliable. That the trees are aware of this fact and will consistently bloom to leaves, and drop their leaves, with a high level of precision each year. The trees seem to understand that a couple warm days does not make it spring outside...
I wish I could feel the same about the weather that the trees do...just wait patiently for the right time. Then, BAM, leaves.
The reason I bring this up is that it is somewhat ammusing to me that we had 10 days (maybe more) of nearly perfect weather. Then, the weather turned a little cooler...not bad. Just cooler. And, now, I look outside and all the trees in my neighborhood have leaves on them. Ha. What's with that? They skipped the weeks with warm weather and decided to pop out some leaves now that there is a freeze warning in place?
I don't know...something about that seems to negate the statement my teacher made some many years ago. But, who knows...maybe he is right. Maybe the trees are right. Maybe it is spring...even with the freeze warning in place.
I'm looking forward to a beautiful summer... rumor has it that is going to be a nice one (Bill Steffens blog on www.wooodtv.com). It'd be nice to not have weather be a primary topic for my ramblings on this blog.
That'll never happen though.
I once had a teacher tell me that the trees are smarter than we are...
Every year we seem to be confused by the onset of Spring and Fall. That somehow Spring doesn't arrive early enough and that fall sneaks up on us. And, perhaps that is true...Summer does tend to lull me in to a sense of sleep regarding the weather. It feels as though every day should be 78 degrees and sunny. Why wouldn't it be?
But, according to the teacher I once had...there is no great mystery to this topic. He said that spring and fall are, in fact, remarkably reliable. That the trees are aware of this fact and will consistently bloom to leaves, and drop their leaves, with a high level of precision each year. The trees seem to understand that a couple warm days does not make it spring outside...
I wish I could feel the same about the weather that the trees do...just wait patiently for the right time. Then, BAM, leaves.
The reason I bring this up is that it is somewhat ammusing to me that we had 10 days (maybe more) of nearly perfect weather. Then, the weather turned a little cooler...not bad. Just cooler. And, now, I look outside and all the trees in my neighborhood have leaves on them. Ha. What's with that? They skipped the weeks with warm weather and decided to pop out some leaves now that there is a freeze warning in place?
I don't know...something about that seems to negate the statement my teacher made some many years ago. But, who knows...maybe he is right. Maybe the trees are right. Maybe it is spring...even with the freeze warning in place.
I'm looking forward to a beautiful summer... rumor has it that is going to be a nice one (Bill Steffens blog on www.wooodtv.com). It'd be nice to not have weather be a primary topic for my ramblings on this blog.
That'll never happen though.
Tomfoolery, Shenanigans, Nonsense and general Ballyhoo
On the topic of things one shouldn't count on me for...
One should never make the faulty assumption that I will take on any kind of a "handiman" project and remain in good humor. Don't do it. Don't be near me while I work. It is in your best interests and the best interests of my project.
I don't play well with others when I am "working things out" in my head. Since I'm not a trained carpenter, plummer, or electrician, any project I work on at home requires me to "figure it out". I need to stand and stare. I need time to work out, in my head, how things go together, in what order they must go together, and in what means I can most effeciently make that happen.
Interupting me, standing near me, offering suggestions, calling people to ask them for suggestions, or doing anything else that distracts me from the task at hand is a bad idea. It is not in the best interests of the project, nor is it likely to be good for your physical, emotional, or mental well-being. So, leave it alone. Leave me alone. I assure you that when I reach the end of the project, all will be well.
I alight this topic now for one reason. I am attempting to replace the storm door on the front of my house. Not a project I've ever tried before...never hung any kind of a door. What little I do know of this project is that there is the tricky business of getting all the different bits to line up properly so that your door will...you know...work.
The door I recently acquired was a gift of sorts (don't ask). It was from the scratch-n-dent pile at Home Depot and did not include instructions, hardware, or all of the parts required to install it. So, in addition to the challenges of having to self-learn how one goes about properly installing a storm door. I also have the challenge learning how to install this particular door...knowing that I only have about 75% of the hardware actually required to do the job.
Thus, when my mother (again, don't ask) decided she'd "help me out"...things took a turn for the worse. The project came to a sudden and nearly violent hault.
So, again, let me say the following. As I work on a project...that perplexed look on my face is not, I repeat, IS NOT, in fact an invitation for help, suggestions, or advice. It is a warning. When you see a hammer/screwdriver/power tool in my hand and that perplexed look on my face you should immediately steer clear of territory that is within shouting distance of me. I'm offering this warning now on the off chance that any person reading this blog is ever set with the unfortunate opportunity to happen upon me while I am mid-project.
It's not that I'm mean spirited. But, I can honestly say...unless you are a trained plummer/carpenter/electrician and are offering to just do the project for me...you are of no help whatsoever. Leave me be. If I need you to hold something...I'll find you.
One should never make the faulty assumption that I will take on any kind of a "handiman" project and remain in good humor. Don't do it. Don't be near me while I work. It is in your best interests and the best interests of my project.
I don't play well with others when I am "working things out" in my head. Since I'm not a trained carpenter, plummer, or electrician, any project I work on at home requires me to "figure it out". I need to stand and stare. I need time to work out, in my head, how things go together, in what order they must go together, and in what means I can most effeciently make that happen.
Interupting me, standing near me, offering suggestions, calling people to ask them for suggestions, or doing anything else that distracts me from the task at hand is a bad idea. It is not in the best interests of the project, nor is it likely to be good for your physical, emotional, or mental well-being. So, leave it alone. Leave me alone. I assure you that when I reach the end of the project, all will be well.
I alight this topic now for one reason. I am attempting to replace the storm door on the front of my house. Not a project I've ever tried before...never hung any kind of a door. What little I do know of this project is that there is the tricky business of getting all the different bits to line up properly so that your door will...you know...work.
The door I recently acquired was a gift of sorts (don't ask). It was from the scratch-n-dent pile at Home Depot and did not include instructions, hardware, or all of the parts required to install it. So, in addition to the challenges of having to self-learn how one goes about properly installing a storm door. I also have the challenge learning how to install this particular door...knowing that I only have about 75% of the hardware actually required to do the job.
Thus, when my mother (again, don't ask) decided she'd "help me out"...things took a turn for the worse. The project came to a sudden and nearly violent hault.
So, again, let me say the following. As I work on a project...that perplexed look on my face is not, I repeat, IS NOT, in fact an invitation for help, suggestions, or advice. It is a warning. When you see a hammer/screwdriver/power tool in my hand and that perplexed look on my face you should immediately steer clear of territory that is within shouting distance of me. I'm offering this warning now on the off chance that any person reading this blog is ever set with the unfortunate opportunity to happen upon me while I am mid-project.
It's not that I'm mean spirited. But, I can honestly say...unless you are a trained plummer/carpenter/electrician and are offering to just do the project for me...you are of no help whatsoever. Leave me be. If I need you to hold something...I'll find you.
TNR = Tuesday Night Ride
Well, tonight marks the first of the Tuesday Night Rides from VCC that I will be able to participate in...which is very exciting. Technically this will be the third TNR of the season. But, I have been otherwise engaged the past two Tuesdays...so, this will be my first for 2008. Score!
TNR was my first exposure to group riding, and is still my favorite. I was invited during the summer last year to begin riding on Tuesday nights with the gang from VCC. And, eventually, they talked me in to it...and, I'm sure glad they did. What a ton of fun! I had no idea what I was missing.
When the rides finally came to an end in the fall I was a bit broken hearted. I look forward to these rides all week long...then, I had to look forward to them all winter long. Now, it is finally here again and I am stoked.
Should be a cool, but sunny evening. Temps should be about 50 Degrees at the start and will probably drop a bit during the ride. I don't think it will be too cold though. I'm imagining that base layer and jersey will serve me well.
I'm excited to ride with some of the folk that I don't see often. There is a whole gang of exceptionally nice people who do these rides...many of whom took the time to make me feel at home last year. So, I am really excited to get back to riding with them again. I have two goals this year during the TNR.
1. Consistently hang in with the faster of the two groups, take my turns at the front, and enjoy the ride without feeling like I'm going to die.
2. Find someone else who is just getting started like I was last year...and, make them feel at home like the group did for me. I had a ton of fun last year. Largely because there were some people who went out of their way to help me learn how to ride (I still suck, so you can imagine how bad I was before). Now I want to return that favor by helping someone else who is new...the problem, of course, is that I'm still a newbie! So, in order for me to help, they are going to have to be really lost!
TNR was my first exposure to group riding, and is still my favorite. I was invited during the summer last year to begin riding on Tuesday nights with the gang from VCC. And, eventually, they talked me in to it...and, I'm sure glad they did. What a ton of fun! I had no idea what I was missing.
When the rides finally came to an end in the fall I was a bit broken hearted. I look forward to these rides all week long...then, I had to look forward to them all winter long. Now, it is finally here again and I am stoked.
Should be a cool, but sunny evening. Temps should be about 50 Degrees at the start and will probably drop a bit during the ride. I don't think it will be too cold though. I'm imagining that base layer and jersey will serve me well.
I'm excited to ride with some of the folk that I don't see often. There is a whole gang of exceptionally nice people who do these rides...many of whom took the time to make me feel at home last year. So, I am really excited to get back to riding with them again. I have two goals this year during the TNR.
1. Consistently hang in with the faster of the two groups, take my turns at the front, and enjoy the ride without feeling like I'm going to die.
2. Find someone else who is just getting started like I was last year...and, make them feel at home like the group did for me. I had a ton of fun last year. Largely because there were some people who went out of their way to help me learn how to ride (I still suck, so you can imagine how bad I was before). Now I want to return that favor by helping someone else who is new...the problem, of course, is that I'm still a newbie! So, in order for me to help, they are going to have to be really lost!
P-Bob
Well, Sunday was the 2nd attempt at running the Pineapple Bob Classic this spring. Thus, I have dubbed it the Pineapple Bob Classic Redux. I was just one of what had to be 20-25 participants who braved a mild wind, cold weather, and partial sunshine. Well...maybe "braving" it isn't the right term. Compared with the cold and rain we had during the Fall P-Bob, this was a highly pleasant ride.
There were two routes...45ish and 35ish miles. About 15-18 miles of which was on gravel. Much of it loose gravel. Looked like about half the group took the long route, the rest took some version of the short route.
I hung in there with the faster group for the vast majority of the ride, which made me happy. They weren't exactly going for speed records...but, they weren't taking it easy either. So, my goal was just to make it through the ride without getting dropped. And, I did that...sort of. At about the 20 mile mark the group split...some of the group heading back on the short route, the rest heading on to the long route. I stuck with the long route and managed to talk Jasker in to doing the long route as well (though, I believe he regretted that decision later).
Jasker and I rode together with Randy and James for a while...but, when the main group hit the seasonal road between 142nd and 140th, we decided to turn off and take the safe route. James continued on up the seasonal road...he had a nice, big, mountain bike that was well suited to that section of the ride. J2, Randy, and I all decided to stick with paved roads for the rest of the ride.
J2 and I rode with Randy for a while...but, when we turned west in to the wind and started heading up hill, we lost Randy for a bit. We decided that we would stop and take a little rest at the next turn and wait for Randy to catch up. What I didn't know was that I, in typical form, had missed our turn. Randy is much more familiar with the area than I am...so, he made the correct turn and left Jasker and I in the dust. So, we stood and looked at each other with confused looks on our faces for a while...then decided to back track and find the turn that I had so obviously missed.
Eventually we found our way back to VCC. Total mileage ended up just shy of 50, which felt like a lot with that wind and the large sections of gravel. J2 was definitely not feeling too good by the end of the ride. But, he hung in there like a champ...as usual. And, in spite of his claims of being a bit tired, I suspect he could have dropped me any time he felt like it and gotten home at a much more reasonable pace. In any case, I enjoyed myself thoroughly...it was a good ride. The weather wasn't bad at all. I hung in there with the fast group for a good portion of the ride. And, I got to hang out with Jasker for about an hour...which I thought was fun. Sadly, Jasker had to sit an listen to my life story for that whole part of the ride...sorry John!
Sandwiches and cookies awaited us back at VCC. That and some companionship...which was always welcome. It was a great ride.
There were two routes...45ish and 35ish miles. About 15-18 miles of which was on gravel. Much of it loose gravel. Looked like about half the group took the long route, the rest took some version of the short route.
I hung in there with the faster group for the vast majority of the ride, which made me happy. They weren't exactly going for speed records...but, they weren't taking it easy either. So, my goal was just to make it through the ride without getting dropped. And, I did that...sort of. At about the 20 mile mark the group split...some of the group heading back on the short route, the rest heading on to the long route. I stuck with the long route and managed to talk Jasker in to doing the long route as well (though, I believe he regretted that decision later).
Jasker and I rode together with Randy and James for a while...but, when the main group hit the seasonal road between 142nd and 140th, we decided to turn off and take the safe route. James continued on up the seasonal road...he had a nice, big, mountain bike that was well suited to that section of the ride. J2, Randy, and I all decided to stick with paved roads for the rest of the ride.
J2 and I rode with Randy for a while...but, when we turned west in to the wind and started heading up hill, we lost Randy for a bit. We decided that we would stop and take a little rest at the next turn and wait for Randy to catch up. What I didn't know was that I, in typical form, had missed our turn. Randy is much more familiar with the area than I am...so, he made the correct turn and left Jasker and I in the dust. So, we stood and looked at each other with confused looks on our faces for a while...then decided to back track and find the turn that I had so obviously missed.
Eventually we found our way back to VCC. Total mileage ended up just shy of 50, which felt like a lot with that wind and the large sections of gravel. J2 was definitely not feeling too good by the end of the ride. But, he hung in there like a champ...as usual. And, in spite of his claims of being a bit tired, I suspect he could have dropped me any time he felt like it and gotten home at a much more reasonable pace. In any case, I enjoyed myself thoroughly...it was a good ride. The weather wasn't bad at all. I hung in there with the fast group for a good portion of the ride. And, I got to hang out with Jasker for about an hour...which I thought was fun. Sadly, Jasker had to sit an listen to my life story for that whole part of the ride...sorry John!
Sandwiches and cookies awaited us back at VCC. That and some companionship...which was always welcome. It was a great ride.
25 April 2008
Illness
I feel like crap. I guess that is the long and short of it...I could expound on the topic. But, why? It's not going to make me feel any better about the fact that I don't feel well.
I left work early last night. Headaches, stomach hurt, slight fever, and complete, total, incredible exhaustion. Felt like it was a genuine effort just to remain standing.
Fell asleep at about 7PM last night...slept until about 9:30 this morning. Still feel exhausted. But, no more fever, no more headache. Stomach still feels a little weird, but not intolerable.
Hopefully this is just a little bug that I caught from the kids. Probably didn't help that I put so many miles in on the bike this week. My body isn't used to keeping that type of pace yet...need to increase the mileage on a slightly slower pace, I think.
Anyway. Enough whining. I feel a lot better this afternoon than I did this morning. I think I'll feel fine by tomorrow. I really don't want to waste a warm afternoon...I REALLY want to get on my bike and go for a ride. But, I'm afraid it would just make me feel worse rather than better. So, I'm going to resist the temptaion and just try to take the day off of the bike. I might try to ride in tomorrow...we'll see.
I really want to make sure that I'm ready for the P-Bob on Sunday. Sounds like that is going to be 45 miles of hell...I don't want to feel ill at the start of it because I know I'll feel ill at the end of it.
I left work early last night. Headaches, stomach hurt, slight fever, and complete, total, incredible exhaustion. Felt like it was a genuine effort just to remain standing.
Fell asleep at about 7PM last night...slept until about 9:30 this morning. Still feel exhausted. But, no more fever, no more headache. Stomach still feels a little weird, but not intolerable.
Hopefully this is just a little bug that I caught from the kids. Probably didn't help that I put so many miles in on the bike this week. My body isn't used to keeping that type of pace yet...need to increase the mileage on a slightly slower pace, I think.
Anyway. Enough whining. I feel a lot better this afternoon than I did this morning. I think I'll feel fine by tomorrow. I really don't want to waste a warm afternoon...I REALLY want to get on my bike and go for a ride. But, I'm afraid it would just make me feel worse rather than better. So, I'm going to resist the temptaion and just try to take the day off of the bike. I might try to ride in tomorrow...we'll see.
I really want to make sure that I'm ready for the P-Bob on Sunday. Sounds like that is going to be 45 miles of hell...I don't want to feel ill at the start of it because I know I'll feel ill at the end of it.
22 April 2008
On the topic of wasted weather
Hey! You! Yeah...you! You know who I'm talking about.
If you haven't been outside this last week, you're wasting beautiful weather. If you're not planning to do something, anything, outside in the next couple days...you are wasting great weather.
Look. We have a limited number of days like this in Michigan. You understand this, right?
I love having four seasons, and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. But, you have to understand the situation. We go from cold...brutal cold...in the winter. To hot...maybe not brutal, but definitely hot and humid...in the summer. And, that space in between the two is fleetingly short, wonderfully unpredictable, and occasionally temperate. Thus, when these few days per year come along...you know the ones...when it is 70-74 degrees outside, when the sun is shining and we have no real cloud cover, and there is little wind and no rain, you simply must take advantage of them. If you don't, it is a sort of blasphemy against the rest of the people who live in this beautiful state with you.
So, if you're indoors reading this blog (unless you're stuck at work and this is how you are killing your lunch hour), you should shut off your computer and go outside. Get on your bike. Go for a run. Go for a walk. Hell, go for a crawl. Play some golf. Play some tennis. Play...something, anything. Take your kids to the park. Take your kids to the ice cream shop. Take your kids around the block. Go outside and do some yard work if you must...but, for the love of all that is wonderful in this world...GO OUTSIDE!
I'm exceptionally happy to report that I've seen more idiots on bikes in the last week than I saw all last year. On my way to work yesterday morning I must have seen 10 other people commuting to work via bike (and, I'm talking about more than just that random guy on the $5 garage sale bike riding on the sidewalk or riding the wrong direction on the road). Looks like lots of people are feeling good about the weather, bad about gas prices, good about saving an owl, good about their fitness or bad about their weight, and have taken to a two wheeled version of their morning ride to work. I'm always happy to report such a trend for a couple of reasons...first; more cyclists on the road generally means that cars will be more aware of our presence. Second; more cyclists on the road means I have more opportunities to shout "good mornin'" at other cyclists. I love that!
Went for a ride this morning...and it was inspiring. Four of us went out to enjoy sunshine, mild winds, clear skies, fresh air, conversational exercise, and camaraderie. Myself, of course, and MC, Da'Ve, and Jeff participated...and it was great. I couldn't be happier...we managed to keep a pace that would have nearly killed me last year. 23ish miles of conversational riding...Da'Ve' and MC looked like they were out for a Sunday stroll as usual. I was doing well with the exception of a couple pulls at the front while heading in to the wind. Jeff struggled a bit...after along lay off he's working hard to get his fitness back to where it was. Based on how long it's been since he's done any significant riding, I was pretty impressed that he was able to do the pace we did. It wasn't super fast...but, it was a hell of a lot faster than I could have done if I'd taken as much time off as he has.
Now, I'm looking outside and wondering what else I should do...it felt so good to go out and ride that I want to go again. But, I want to share it with someone. I'd love to go ride with Karin, but she is busy doing the day care thing and won't be available for a ride until later this afternoon/evening. I need to work tonight, so I won't have too much time for an evening ride and I'm forced to skip the Tuesday Night Ride. So, if I'm going to avoid wasting this beautiful day I fee like I need to go and do something this afternoon.
Maybe I'll go for another ride by myself, then go for a ride with Karin this afternoon/evening? Got to do something...look at all that sunshine!
If you haven't been outside this last week, you're wasting beautiful weather. If you're not planning to do something, anything, outside in the next couple days...you are wasting great weather.
Look. We have a limited number of days like this in Michigan. You understand this, right?
I love having four seasons, and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. But, you have to understand the situation. We go from cold...brutal cold...in the winter. To hot...maybe not brutal, but definitely hot and humid...in the summer. And, that space in between the two is fleetingly short, wonderfully unpredictable, and occasionally temperate. Thus, when these few days per year come along...you know the ones...when it is 70-74 degrees outside, when the sun is shining and we have no real cloud cover, and there is little wind and no rain, you simply must take advantage of them. If you don't, it is a sort of blasphemy against the rest of the people who live in this beautiful state with you.
So, if you're indoors reading this blog (unless you're stuck at work and this is how you are killing your lunch hour), you should shut off your computer and go outside. Get on your bike. Go for a run. Go for a walk. Hell, go for a crawl. Play some golf. Play some tennis. Play...something, anything. Take your kids to the park. Take your kids to the ice cream shop. Take your kids around the block. Go outside and do some yard work if you must...but, for the love of all that is wonderful in this world...GO OUTSIDE!
I'm exceptionally happy to report that I've seen more idiots on bikes in the last week than I saw all last year. On my way to work yesterday morning I must have seen 10 other people commuting to work via bike (and, I'm talking about more than just that random guy on the $5 garage sale bike riding on the sidewalk or riding the wrong direction on the road). Looks like lots of people are feeling good about the weather, bad about gas prices, good about saving an owl, good about their fitness or bad about their weight, and have taken to a two wheeled version of their morning ride to work. I'm always happy to report such a trend for a couple of reasons...first; more cyclists on the road generally means that cars will be more aware of our presence. Second; more cyclists on the road means I have more opportunities to shout "good mornin'" at other cyclists. I love that!
Went for a ride this morning...and it was inspiring. Four of us went out to enjoy sunshine, mild winds, clear skies, fresh air, conversational exercise, and camaraderie. Myself, of course, and MC, Da'Ve, and Jeff participated...and it was great. I couldn't be happier...we managed to keep a pace that would have nearly killed me last year. 23ish miles of conversational riding...Da'Ve' and MC looked like they were out for a Sunday stroll as usual. I was doing well with the exception of a couple pulls at the front while heading in to the wind. Jeff struggled a bit...after along lay off he's working hard to get his fitness back to where it was. Based on how long it's been since he's done any significant riding, I was pretty impressed that he was able to do the pace we did. It wasn't super fast...but, it was a hell of a lot faster than I could have done if I'd taken as much time off as he has.
Now, I'm looking outside and wondering what else I should do...it felt so good to go out and ride that I want to go again. But, I want to share it with someone. I'd love to go ride with Karin, but she is busy doing the day care thing and won't be available for a ride until later this afternoon/evening. I need to work tonight, so I won't have too much time for an evening ride and I'm forced to skip the Tuesday Night Ride. So, if I'm going to avoid wasting this beautiful day I fee like I need to go and do something this afternoon.
Maybe I'll go for another ride by myself, then go for a ride with Karin this afternoon/evening? Got to do something...look at all that sunshine!
20 April 2008
JDRF Training Ride
Another great training ride today...and, this time I managed to keep myself under control. Go me.
We kept the group together today, and I think everyone had a lot more fun. The pace was leisurely by my standards. But, it appeared that af few were working pretty hard. It was important to remember that the pace wasn't important...we just needed to do whatever was necessary to keep the group together. And, I think we were pretty successful in that regard.
Had the chance to spend some time riding with Jeff, which was nice. He hasn't been riding in a long while due to a knee injury. And, now he is leaving VCC to head back to the world of restaurants. So, it was nice to get in a ride with him while I still had the opportunity.
Poor Cindey struggled with flat tires today...I believe she finished the day with a total of 3. MC found a spot where the tape had moved and exposed a spoke that was poking the tube. Not much could be done about it on the road...just needed to nurse the thing along and keep replacing the tube as necessary.
Weather was perfect...literally. 75 degrees and sunny. It felt amazing...I just wanted to ride forever. The end result is that I have a dandy sun burn on my arms...score!
As for my thoughts on my fitness level at this point in the season. Well, this is difficult to quantify. I suck...but, I believe that I suck less now than I did at this point last year. I did finally open up the throttle for the last two miles of the ride today. I just felt like I needed to go fast for a little while. And, it felt great. Averaged about 22 mph for the last 2 miles of the ride...so, that was pretty good I guess.
So, long story short. I love group rides. It was fun...I can see that this group is going to have a lot fun getting ready over the summer.
We kept the group together today, and I think everyone had a lot more fun. The pace was leisurely by my standards. But, it appeared that af few were working pretty hard. It was important to remember that the pace wasn't important...we just needed to do whatever was necessary to keep the group together. And, I think we were pretty successful in that regard.
Had the chance to spend some time riding with Jeff, which was nice. He hasn't been riding in a long while due to a knee injury. And, now he is leaving VCC to head back to the world of restaurants. So, it was nice to get in a ride with him while I still had the opportunity.
Poor Cindey struggled with flat tires today...I believe she finished the day with a total of 3. MC found a spot where the tape had moved and exposed a spoke that was poking the tube. Not much could be done about it on the road...just needed to nurse the thing along and keep replacing the tube as necessary.
Weather was perfect...literally. 75 degrees and sunny. It felt amazing...I just wanted to ride forever. The end result is that I have a dandy sun burn on my arms...score!
As for my thoughts on my fitness level at this point in the season. Well, this is difficult to quantify. I suck...but, I believe that I suck less now than I did at this point last year. I did finally open up the throttle for the last two miles of the ride today. I just felt like I needed to go fast for a little while. And, it felt great. Averaged about 22 mph for the last 2 miles of the ride...so, that was pretty good I guess.
So, long story short. I love group rides. It was fun...I can see that this group is going to have a lot fun getting ready over the summer.
19 April 2008
On the topic of live radio shows
I had Michigan Golf Live host their show live from my store today. This was my first experience with them and it was a lot of fun. From 8 to 10AM and then again from 11AM to 1PM Bill Hobson hosted his show, interviewed members of my staff, and just generally put together an entertaining radio show.
Unfortunately, he had two things working against him.
First, he had some technological difficulties. The entire show was broadcast and mixed via a connection by phone line to a studio elsewhere. So, as you might imagine, it is fairly critical that one have solid, active, stable phone connection in order to complete the show. But, as luck would have it, our phone lines went down for the majority of the show. That means that Bill, in addition to hosting a live talk show, also had to figure out how to rig the show together by cell phone to keep it broadcasting live. It was less than perfect.
Secondly, he was counting on me as his primary guest on the show. So, I had the rare opportunity to expound on the topic of golf and golf technology to a live radio audience. Good lord was that a bad idea. Despite the fact that my wife, family, and friends all claimed that the show sounded good...I'm of the opinion that I babbled like an idiot.
Luckily we were able to set up the show on a stable phone line for the second two hour section of the show. Unfortunately, we had to go off site in order to make that happen. So, Bill could not entertain himself by interviewing other members of my staff...he just had me. For two hours. Of pure, unadulterated, dullness in the form of my opinion on all that might be related to golf. I'm a loser and I believe I proved it today...to a live radio audience. What does that mean? Not much. Just that thousands of people across the state of Michigan whom I might never have otherwise met or interacted with now have a full understanding of my moronocity. Go me.
All kidding aside...I actually had a ton of fun on the show with Bill today. I'm trying to get another segment lined up for next month. I think it will help our business...and, its not too terribly expensive. So, it can't hurt. Right?
Unfortunately, he had two things working against him.
First, he had some technological difficulties. The entire show was broadcast and mixed via a connection by phone line to a studio elsewhere. So, as you might imagine, it is fairly critical that one have solid, active, stable phone connection in order to complete the show. But, as luck would have it, our phone lines went down for the majority of the show. That means that Bill, in addition to hosting a live talk show, also had to figure out how to rig the show together by cell phone to keep it broadcasting live. It was less than perfect.
Secondly, he was counting on me as his primary guest on the show. So, I had the rare opportunity to expound on the topic of golf and golf technology to a live radio audience. Good lord was that a bad idea. Despite the fact that my wife, family, and friends all claimed that the show sounded good...I'm of the opinion that I babbled like an idiot.
Luckily we were able to set up the show on a stable phone line for the second two hour section of the show. Unfortunately, we had to go off site in order to make that happen. So, Bill could not entertain himself by interviewing other members of my staff...he just had me. For two hours. Of pure, unadulterated, dullness in the form of my opinion on all that might be related to golf. I'm a loser and I believe I proved it today...to a live radio audience. What does that mean? Not much. Just that thousands of people across the state of Michigan whom I might never have otherwise met or interacted with now have a full understanding of my moronocity. Go me.
All kidding aside...I actually had a ton of fun on the show with Bill today. I'm trying to get another segment lined up for next month. I think it will help our business...and, its not too terribly expensive. So, it can't hurt. Right?
16 April 2008
JDRF Fundraising
Just a quick update...my fundraising seems to be going quite nicely. I'm consistently surprised by the generosity of those around me. I've received donations big and small from a huge variety of people...and I appreciate all of it! Friends, friends of friends, family, and distant family alike...they've all genrously donated. Amazing.
I'm at about 36% of my goal so far. I think that's pretty good for this early in the year. Plus, I haven't even talked to people from my company yet...and, I think I'll get some good donations from them.
I got a $500 donation from my Grandmother today. Wow! To quote her, "I'm going to be dead for a long time. I might as well donate some of my money." Ha...how's that for logic!
Anyway...if you're reading this, and you haven't donated yet. Well...get on it!
I'm at about 36% of my goal so far. I think that's pretty good for this early in the year. Plus, I haven't even talked to people from my company yet...and, I think I'll get some good donations from them.
I got a $500 donation from my Grandmother today. Wow! To quote her, "I'm going to be dead for a long time. I might as well donate some of my money." Ha...how's that for logic!
Anyway...if you're reading this, and you haven't donated yet. Well...get on it!
What a week!
Well... today marks the end of one of the longest weeks of my life.
A month ago I found out that a couple of the director level personnel from my corporate office were coming to visit my store. In addition, my Regional Vice President and my District Manager would be visiting at the same time.
This is the single most intensive visit a store can receive...the store can't just be really clean, bright, and well organized. It has to be merchandised perfectly. And, I mean perfectly. Because, these guys will know the difference. They're the ones who buy the product, negotiate product placement within the store, and determine where things are supposed to be in the store. So, if something is in the wrong spot...they'll know!
Anyway...we made some moderate progress over the last 3 weeks. But, with about a week to go I realized that we just weren't as close to perfect as I'd hoped. So, it was time to go in to full court press. Bring in all the help...management staff lived at the store for the past 4 days. Whatever it took...we needed to get it done.
So, how did it go? Well. We got it done. And, I think it was just about as positive as it could be for us. Our market has some unique competitive challenges. And, for that reason, I need some additional help from the people at my corporate office...but, they don't always understand that. But, this visit helped them understand. Which means I'll get more help. Which means my business will be more successful in the future.
I tallied up the hours for the last week...between Thursday of last week and today, I worked 106 hours. Yikes...that's a lot of time in my building for one week!
Needless to say, I haven't had much happen in the way of riding, running, etc. I'm excited to get going again...I don't think I'm going to ride to work tomorrow. But, I will on Friday and Saturday. JDRF training ride on Sunday. Ride to work on Monday. And...drum roll please...my first Tuesday Night Ride of the season on Tuesday. I'm totally pumped for that ride!
Time to return to some normalcy!
A month ago I found out that a couple of the director level personnel from my corporate office were coming to visit my store. In addition, my Regional Vice President and my District Manager would be visiting at the same time.
This is the single most intensive visit a store can receive...the store can't just be really clean, bright, and well organized. It has to be merchandised perfectly. And, I mean perfectly. Because, these guys will know the difference. They're the ones who buy the product, negotiate product placement within the store, and determine where things are supposed to be in the store. So, if something is in the wrong spot...they'll know!
Anyway...we made some moderate progress over the last 3 weeks. But, with about a week to go I realized that we just weren't as close to perfect as I'd hoped. So, it was time to go in to full court press. Bring in all the help...management staff lived at the store for the past 4 days. Whatever it took...we needed to get it done.
So, how did it go? Well. We got it done. And, I think it was just about as positive as it could be for us. Our market has some unique competitive challenges. And, for that reason, I need some additional help from the people at my corporate office...but, they don't always understand that. But, this visit helped them understand. Which means I'll get more help. Which means my business will be more successful in the future.
I tallied up the hours for the last week...between Thursday of last week and today, I worked 106 hours. Yikes...that's a lot of time in my building for one week!
Needless to say, I haven't had much happen in the way of riding, running, etc. I'm excited to get going again...I don't think I'm going to ride to work tomorrow. But, I will on Friday and Saturday. JDRF training ride on Sunday. Ride to work on Monday. And...drum roll please...my first Tuesday Night Ride of the season on Tuesday. I'm totally pumped for that ride!
Time to return to some normalcy!
09 April 2008
No Ride Today...
Well, its a little cool outside. Not that I'm getting picky about the weather. This is still better than the snow we had going until last week...but, its a little dreary, a little windy, and a little cool. So, for the moment, I'm going to skip my ride.
Besides, my legs are still a little stiff from lots of miles last week. So, I don't think I'm doing any harm by skipping a day. Maybe I'll go for a little run this evening. I haven't run in about a week...so, it wouldn't hurt to do a run. Even if it is just a short one. We'll see how I feel a little later.
Stopped by VCC to get Karin a saddle-bag today. Forgot to pick one up for her when we got the bike the other day. So, with the help of Ted and Jeff, she picked out a nice flowery looking one that matches her bike nicely. Installed that when we got home...so, she looks semi-ready for a ride now!
Besides, my legs are still a little stiff from lots of miles last week. So, I don't think I'm doing any harm by skipping a day. Maybe I'll go for a little run this evening. I haven't run in about a week...so, it wouldn't hurt to do a run. Even if it is just a short one. We'll see how I feel a little later.
Stopped by VCC to get Karin a saddle-bag today. Forgot to pick one up for her when we got the bike the other day. So, with the help of Ted and Jeff, she picked out a nice flowery looking one that matches her bike nicely. Installed that when we got home...so, she looks semi-ready for a ride now!
08 April 2008
Why I hate the great weather! (huh?)
Ok...so, I've spent the better part of the last 6 weeks bitching about the weather. Apparently my opinion of when spring should arrive differed greatly with that of the calendar, the cosmic cycle, la nina, and the global climate. Thus, we got more snow...I got more angry.
However, a sudden turn over the past week has me loving the great out of doors. Hell...I have tan lines!
You'd think that this would be the cause for great and glorious celebration. And, it was. For a couple days I stood outside...reigning over my lawn like the king of my own tiny land. In the spirit of Sports Center..."Bring me the finest meats and cheeses in all the land!".
Now, though, the weather is irking me slightly. Why? Well, because I'm exhausted. I've been waiting for weather like this for so long that if a single minute of daylight goes by when I am not doing something to enjoy it...I feel like its wasted. Thus, I've been riding as much as possible...taking the long way home from work...doing JDRF rides, doing rides with my wife...generally spending lots of time outside. However, I've also been spending even more time than usual at work. So, that means lots of very short nights lately...
in short. I'm exhausted. I'm taking the day off of the bike today. No run. No bike. No swim. No yard work. Nada. Nothing. Zippo. Zilch. And, I'm committing to a good nights sleep tonight. Minimum of 8 hours. No excuses.
On the plus side...I have felt great on the bike. And, I definitely reached a personal zenith during the JDRF ride on Sunday. The weather was great, my legs felt great, and I had Carmen at my side (I missed you Carmen!), I managed to hook up with Ted (which doesn't happen nearly often enough), and since I found Ted's wheel I managed to find Danielle's wheel by proxy. In short, everything just made me want to fly. I was able to take some long pulls at the front of the group (something I never did last year without feeling like I would die), I was able to maintain a good speed...and, I was able to really open it up on the second half of the ride.
On a personal level, this was probably the single most enjoyable ride I've been on. However, from a group or team perspective... I blew it. Big time. I didn't do what I should have done...which is make sure that everyone was having fun, that everyone was riding with someone. I failed at the one thing I vowed that I would do this year. I failed to help someone new...I want to do for someone else what Carmen, Jasker, and the VCC gang did for me last year. And, I didn't do that at all. MC would claim that is his job, not mine. But, I'm of the opinion that it is a group responsibility to ensure that the group has fun. We can't leave that all on MC.
I'll do better next time! I need to remember that it's not a race. Last year (and with the fast people over the winter) I didn't need to worry about that. Even if I pretended it was a race, there wasn't any point in it...I was getting my ass kicked anyway. I needed to go at my max just to keep up. And, that may still be the case this year... I don't know. But, this year I want to make sure I do things to help out the slower riders...assuming there are any slower than me. ;-)
While I'm on the topic of VCC, JDRF, and all things cycling...we added a new bike to the family yesterday. It was Karin's birthday yesterday and I wanted to get her a new bike. So, I semi-surprised her by taking her to VCC to get fit up for a new bike. Needless to say, she was infinitely excited. MC, Ted, Aaron, and NGG (New Guy Greg) all helped to get the bike set up for her while we were there. So, there is a lovely new Cannondale in the stable. Now, Karin has a really nice rig to do errands, the occasional group ride, and even a triathlon over the summer. To me, that is really exciting. I really want to her to find a healthy hobby that makes her happy (alliteration much?).
Oh...and, just to stay on the topic of griping about the weather. Potential for snow in the weekend forecast. I heart global warming.
However, a sudden turn over the past week has me loving the great out of doors. Hell...I have tan lines!
You'd think that this would be the cause for great and glorious celebration. And, it was. For a couple days I stood outside...reigning over my lawn like the king of my own tiny land. In the spirit of Sports Center..."Bring me the finest meats and cheeses in all the land!".
Now, though, the weather is irking me slightly. Why? Well, because I'm exhausted. I've been waiting for weather like this for so long that if a single minute of daylight goes by when I am not doing something to enjoy it...I feel like its wasted. Thus, I've been riding as much as possible...taking the long way home from work...doing JDRF rides, doing rides with my wife...generally spending lots of time outside. However, I've also been spending even more time than usual at work. So, that means lots of very short nights lately...
in short. I'm exhausted. I'm taking the day off of the bike today. No run. No bike. No swim. No yard work. Nada. Nothing. Zippo. Zilch. And, I'm committing to a good nights sleep tonight. Minimum of 8 hours. No excuses.
On the plus side...I have felt great on the bike. And, I definitely reached a personal zenith during the JDRF ride on Sunday. The weather was great, my legs felt great, and I had Carmen at my side (I missed you Carmen!), I managed to hook up with Ted (which doesn't happen nearly often enough), and since I found Ted's wheel I managed to find Danielle's wheel by proxy. In short, everything just made me want to fly. I was able to take some long pulls at the front of the group (something I never did last year without feeling like I would die), I was able to maintain a good speed...and, I was able to really open it up on the second half of the ride.
On a personal level, this was probably the single most enjoyable ride I've been on. However, from a group or team perspective... I blew it. Big time. I didn't do what I should have done...which is make sure that everyone was having fun, that everyone was riding with someone. I failed at the one thing I vowed that I would do this year. I failed to help someone new...I want to do for someone else what Carmen, Jasker, and the VCC gang did for me last year. And, I didn't do that at all. MC would claim that is his job, not mine. But, I'm of the opinion that it is a group responsibility to ensure that the group has fun. We can't leave that all on MC.
I'll do better next time! I need to remember that it's not a race. Last year (and with the fast people over the winter) I didn't need to worry about that. Even if I pretended it was a race, there wasn't any point in it...I was getting my ass kicked anyway. I needed to go at my max just to keep up. And, that may still be the case this year... I don't know. But, this year I want to make sure I do things to help out the slower riders...assuming there are any slower than me. ;-)
While I'm on the topic of VCC, JDRF, and all things cycling...we added a new bike to the family yesterday. It was Karin's birthday yesterday and I wanted to get her a new bike. So, I semi-surprised her by taking her to VCC to get fit up for a new bike. Needless to say, she was infinitely excited. MC, Ted, Aaron, and NGG (New Guy Greg) all helped to get the bike set up for her while we were there. So, there is a lovely new Cannondale in the stable. Now, Karin has a really nice rig to do errands, the occasional group ride, and even a triathlon over the summer. To me, that is really exciting. I really want to her to find a healthy hobby that makes her happy (alliteration much?).
Oh...and, just to stay on the topic of griping about the weather. Potential for snow in the weekend forecast. I heart global warming.
02 April 2008
Spring!
Well, I'm stepping out on a limb and saying that we have turned a corner with the weather. Today was gorgeous!
My ride in this morning was uneventful and, frankly, wonderful. It was cold (22 degrees at time of departure), but the sun was out and it was beautiful. I was plenty warm with my sweater on...even though it was cold. In fact, I was warm enough that when I stopped at a red light there was steam rolling off my arms and shoulders. Cool!
The ride home (about 5:30) was perfect. I ditched the sweater in favor of a a compression shirt and my jersey. Man, I always feel so much faster when I get rid of th sweater.
Anyway, the weather was beautiful. No wind to speak of, the sun was out...in short, it was bordering on perfect. If every single day of the year was like today, I'd be pretty happy. I'd take another 5 degrees warmer so I could get rid of my tights as well and just ride in my bibs. But, I'm not complaining. It was great to ride.
Went for a run last night...not a long one...not a fast one. Just a nice, easy, relaxing, 4 mile run. And, you know, it was exactly that. Easy, relaxing, and nice. I finished feeling good, not the least bit tired, and like I could have easily done several more miles. This is important to me because I'm still making up my mind which distance I am going to do for the Riverbank Run. I really wanted to do the 25K distance...but, I'm very concerned that I will not be able to do the distance, and that I won't have time to get ready between now and then. Perhaps I'll do this as my first 10K distance? We'll see.
I can't even begin to explain how excited I am about the first training ride of the year for the JDRF team. We get started on Sunday and I am totally stoked. The prospect of getting started on group riding again is very exciting. Between the Tuesday night ride out of VCC and the Sunday rides with JDRF...it's going to be a great summer.
My ride in this morning was uneventful and, frankly, wonderful. It was cold (22 degrees at time of departure), but the sun was out and it was beautiful. I was plenty warm with my sweater on...even though it was cold. In fact, I was warm enough that when I stopped at a red light there was steam rolling off my arms and shoulders. Cool!
The ride home (about 5:30) was perfect. I ditched the sweater in favor of a a compression shirt and my jersey. Man, I always feel so much faster when I get rid of th sweater.
Anyway, the weather was beautiful. No wind to speak of, the sun was out...in short, it was bordering on perfect. If every single day of the year was like today, I'd be pretty happy. I'd take another 5 degrees warmer so I could get rid of my tights as well and just ride in my bibs. But, I'm not complaining. It was great to ride.
Went for a run last night...not a long one...not a fast one. Just a nice, easy, relaxing, 4 mile run. And, you know, it was exactly that. Easy, relaxing, and nice. I finished feeling good, not the least bit tired, and like I could have easily done several more miles. This is important to me because I'm still making up my mind which distance I am going to do for the Riverbank Run. I really wanted to do the 25K distance...but, I'm very concerned that I will not be able to do the distance, and that I won't have time to get ready between now and then. Perhaps I'll do this as my first 10K distance? We'll see.
I can't even begin to explain how excited I am about the first training ride of the year for the JDRF team. We get started on Sunday and I am totally stoked. The prospect of getting started on group riding again is very exciting. Between the Tuesday night ride out of VCC and the Sunday rides with JDRF...it's going to be a great summer.
01 April 2008
April Fools Day
It's April 1st. So, I should probably be posting something on my blog that is some sort of a witty scam. Something evocative and thought provoking. Sadly, I'm just not feeling it.
It's probably a bit tiresome for readers to keep visiting this blog and read my gripes about the weather...but, what can I do? Look outside! Mother nature is sucking the joy out of my life one cold day at a time. I honestly thought we might be turning a corner yesterday...but now there is the "potential for scattered snow showers" this afternoon/evening.
It does no good to blame the weather dudes and dudettes. But, it makes me feel better. So, I'm blaming them. OK...not really.
There is a light at the end of the tunnel...but, it seems a long way off. The 15 day forecast on accuweather.com is showing two days reaching 60ish degrees around mid-April. One might suppose that is reason for excitement, though I think it's a bit sad that we've been forced to look forward to the mere possibility of a 60 degree day 2 weeks from now. It's a sad state of affairs.
Perhaps the frustration comes from the fact that the light at the end of the tunnel has been there for about 5 weeks now...but, we never seem to get any closer to it. Each day is cold and dreary and has the potential for snow...and the 15 day forecast always seems to contain that one mythic warm day at some point in the distant future.
I plan to wallow in the exceptional joy of that first day that I can ride to work on the Volpe with summer tires on it. That first day that I get dressed for my ride that does not include 20 minutes of getting dressed and undressed before and after the ride. I can't wait to ditch my AmFib shoe covers and gloves. It would be fantastic if I could pack my balaclava away for the year.
April...spring...leaves...warm weather...sunshine...I'm crying on the inside.
It's probably a bit tiresome for readers to keep visiting this blog and read my gripes about the weather...but, what can I do? Look outside! Mother nature is sucking the joy out of my life one cold day at a time. I honestly thought we might be turning a corner yesterday...but now there is the "potential for scattered snow showers" this afternoon/evening.
It does no good to blame the weather dudes and dudettes. But, it makes me feel better. So, I'm blaming them. OK...not really.
There is a light at the end of the tunnel...but, it seems a long way off. The 15 day forecast on accuweather.com is showing two days reaching 60ish degrees around mid-April. One might suppose that is reason for excitement, though I think it's a bit sad that we've been forced to look forward to the mere possibility of a 60 degree day 2 weeks from now. It's a sad state of affairs.
Perhaps the frustration comes from the fact that the light at the end of the tunnel has been there for about 5 weeks now...but, we never seem to get any closer to it. Each day is cold and dreary and has the potential for snow...and the 15 day forecast always seems to contain that one mythic warm day at some point in the distant future.
I plan to wallow in the exceptional joy of that first day that I can ride to work on the Volpe with summer tires on it. That first day that I get dressed for my ride that does not include 20 minutes of getting dressed and undressed before and after the ride. I can't wait to ditch my AmFib shoe covers and gloves. It would be fantastic if I could pack my balaclava away for the year.
April...spring...leaves...warm weather...sunshine...I'm crying on the inside.
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