Working on the Wisemen

Working on this. Maybe something will rub-off.

Happy New Year

New Endorsement

I wish "New Endorsement" meant that I was getting paid to fly the plane above. In this case, it specifies additional privileges obtained through training. Any plane with a hp rating above 200 is considered "high performance". If you want to fly one then you need to obtain a formal High Performance Endorsement from a flight instructor. The plane above is C182R and runs with a 230hp. Compared to a Skyhawk (C172) it's bigger, heavier, faster, more stable AND drops like a rock when you pull the power.

I finished this endorsement on Tuesday and it feels good. I like the plane, it stays where you want it and tends to have less thrash in windy conditions. The power settings are something to watch, especially on short final. Too slow can induce a stall too early that drops the nose "right now" that could collapse the nose gear. Nose gear collapse means a prop strike and an immediate required engine pull and overhaul, regardless of damage, and a minimum $30K price tag. These comments are for me as a reminder that "low and slow" makes for a bad and expensive day.

That said, it's very manageable and I'm looking forward to flying it. I'm accepting donations and sponsorships.

So What Did I Get Done?

I have written a few Friday blogs declaring what I would get done. Here's the reality:

Most of the list got done. The OBX trip took place on Sunday instead of Saturday. Wreaths Across America was a huge success. Colin and Lauren really enjoyed the Bonfire and the Friday Christmas part was "memorable".

The wise men must still be looking for the star as the piece of plywood sits upstairs waiting for some love. The leaves did not get done as mother nature helped with some high winds to blow most of the leaves out of the yard and down into the cul-de-sac. I'm happy, neighbors in cul-de-sac "not happy".

So yesterday was a 7 hour round-trip affair for 90 minutes of shutting off the water, clearing out lines, pouring anti-freeze and making deliveries and pick-ups at the house. While not much fun, it beats emergency phone calls and sweating pipe.

All in a weekend's work. Now, about the wisemen....

Another one...

Another weekend full of stuff (but not expecting anything different):

Three things to do tonight and can only pull off two of them:

• Scouts BonFire at Camp Justice: Colin chose this over practice (I would too)
• Christmas Party at friends
• Flying this PM (working on the high performance endorsement)
• Wreaths Across America Ceremony on Saturday
• Quick trip down to OBX Saturday PM (shut the water off and clear the pipes)
• Back late Saturday night or Sunday morning
• Church Sunday
• Lots of leaves now
• Still working on the wisemen.

Next week is a full week. Kids off after Wednesday w/ work off after 1/2 day Friday. Strange weather. After 70 on Wednesday, back to 40 today. I'm surprised we're not sick.

Wreaths Across America - Dec. 15th

Wreaths Across America is back again this year. Veterans cemeteries across the country will commerate the loyal service of veterans this Saturday, Dec. 15. Ceremonies at national cemeteries will run simultaneously, beginning at 12 Noon EST. The link below is to participating locations.

http://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/

The Southside Composite Squadron will host at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia for the 2nd year.

Weekend Play

A few short weeks 'til Christmas and a lot to do. Listening to Mannheim Steamroller while I type. Type Away!

It's cold in the Commonwealth finally. Low 30's today with snow flurries two days ago. And the weekend....

• More decorating
• Might this be the year for building the 3 wise men?
• Colin's first round ball practice tonight
• Dinner out with friends tomorrow night
• Leaves, only 1/2 done here
• Last touches for cleaning out the home office (and getting the remnants up to the attic).
• Getting ready for Wreaths Across America II, next Saturday the 15th.
• Finish building new buffet for the dining room.
• Planning activities for the family during the holidays

A good weekend to all...

It's been awhile

It appears I've taken the entire month of November off. Not much to report and I've taken a break from the bike (and it shows).

November has been a nice "de-tox" month. De-tox meaning settling down from all of the running around. Gone for awhile is the constant on-the-go activities. It's been nice having only 1 night a week away from the house instead of 4. Because baseball and basketball coaching seem to overlap into a 6 month long affair, I did choose (w/ good counsel from Jodi) to step away from coaching basketball for one season. I hope I can stand while still standing by and watching Colin from a different side of the court. The lone busy night continues to be Tuesday's with Civil Air Patrol. That's still enjoyable, even with a wave of "people" issues of late.

It's been nice to work with Colin on homework (not so sure it's nice for him) and read book's with Lauren. There's not too many moments more special than your daughter bringing her blanket and book to you, then climbing on your lap for a read.

Finally Rain

Sitting here with a cup of Sumatra, there's a warm glow inside to offset the gray outside. Starting Wednesday we are finally receiving the rain we needed so much.

Our fiscal year ending at work, there's a sense of things calming down. San Diego has a large HP site that is currently closed due to the wild fires. Several HP homes have been damaged or destroyed. Sad.

Today is about 1/2-day of work and then I'm a bachelor for several days. Jodi and the kids will go up to PA this afternoon for the weekend while I figure out what I want to do. A few projects in line and college football, perhaps. Then off to the airport and the Left Coast on Sunday, back on Halloween.

Keep coming rain....

A great weekend

The weather has been fantastic here. The downside is no rain and mandatory water restrictions.

Saturday, my 4-year-old and I went down the airport to pull the CAP plane out of the hangar for static display at the airshow, then went and looked at all of the planes and helicopters. She wanted to go inside an old DC-9 used for the Berlin Airlift during WWII, and we did. She also loved the VIP blackhawk used for high-ranking D.C. offficials. Then off to her soccer game where she stole a ball and scored.

Sunday was Colin's day. He and I went with the rest of his Cub Scout den to the local park to learn how to play Frisbee golf. It was a lot more fun than we thought it would be and will likely go back.

I can't imagine a better way to spend the weekend then with the family.

A short break

It's been a semi-rough few weeks. The wife and I finally figured out that we had too much stuff going on among work, 2 kids, baseball coaching, Civil Air Patrol, Scouts, and a 6-week baseball clinic. Throw in 2 houses and the soup gets thicker. No complaints, we made all of the choices as we always do.

The Good news: Fall baseball is now over (Colin and I are looking forward to the break) and his clinic has ended. That takes care of 2 nights per week and 3 hours on Saturday.

The Bad news: Maybe not so bad - Colin will play Upward Basketball this winter and I've chosen not to coach him. That's a tougher decision then it seemed. These years go by so quickly... However, I need some down-time. Regardless, he knows I'll be there and we'll work on stuff at home.

The Great news: We had an outstanding campout this past weekend at Bear Creek Lake State Park with the Cub Scouts. Organizing it for the 3rd annual is some work and the event grew to 45 people, including 16 Scouts. These are times that the kids will always remember.

I'm ready for Standard Time! It's too dark to ride now before work and that's the best time for me to do it. I know lights make that doable, and I have a few. I have had a few situations where I've been scared crapless with drivers that were clueless.

To the Beach...

My brother flies in from Atlanta this evening and then it's down to OBX. Crossing our fingers for good weather. Still a real dust bowl in VA, need rain something awful.

A good weekend to all...

Nothing out of the Ordinary

Not a lot happening this week. The bike rides are typical and the weather is nice. It's great to see the Spartans playing good defense again and they'll have their hands ful with the Badgers on Saturday.

"Our biggest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our biggest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
Your playing small doesn't serve the world.
We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us and as we let our own light shine we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same."

- Marianne Williamson

A shake-up in the rides

Something a bit different this week now that the HRM is back. Monday was Power Intervals: 4 x 2 mins each and a total of 2 sets. It was work.

Today is OverUnder Intervalls. We'll see how that one goes.

The morning weather has been cooler this week, expecting it to get back to normal this weekend.

Happy Riding

New HRM / Computer

After losing my Cateye and wearing out my previous wristwatch Polar HRM, it was time for a new one. The wireless caught my attention and the Polar CS200cad model seems to have gotten good press. It's wireless for HRM, speed and cadence.

It's installed and we'll see here shortly how it works.

Nice not having all the wires

Fall Around the Corner

After rain yesterday in the early evening the temps cool off here and the humidity is way down. Nice for a change. It made for a very nice ride this AM.

I've ordered a new HR monitor and computer and impatient waiting for it's arrival.

The Weekend Plan

The bike is back and no major hassles. Just a few cables replaced. I will head out shortly for a lunch time ride.

Here's the weekend plan:

• Starbucks
• Bike ride in the AM if I can get everything ready for:
• 6 weeks of Fall Ball starts tomorrow and I'm coaching Colin's team. Game time 11am
• Mow the Lawn
• Saturday evening mass
• Surf for a new HR monitor / bike computer
• Replace more sprinklers (can't believe we've been here 10 years)!
• Some Sunday fun with the family, not sure what, perhaps the pool.
• Interior Planning Meeting with the boss (after 10 years it's time to do some things).

Something in the Air?

Wednesday's ride was same ride as Tuesday's, just 3 minutes faster. I didn't plan on it, just felt good. Over 18.1 miles the average mph was 20.1. Tuesday's ride was faster than previous rides. So what's going on? Probably just fresher legs from the downtime last week.

I'm not overly excited as I don't know if I can sustain that pace over longer rides. I would know more if my HR monitor was up and running. Time will tell.

Bike is in the shop right now for an annual tune-up. Hopefully back later today.

Back to School

The start of 3rd grade

Colin is back to school and I reflect that the summer has gone by quickly, way to quickly. Must be that we were always on the go, and we were... He's growing way too fast!

The bike rides this week are going well after an 0ff-week last week. The weather has been very nice and beg to be taken advantage of. Better do it as the days before the days get too short.

Saturday was a good day, scratch that, "a great day". It was nice to see the Spartans kick off the season the right way AND see the Wolvies get their butts handed to them by 1-AA Apalachian State in front of 109,000 fans in West Ypsi. Ooops. Lots of football to play but it's was a nice Saturday.

Go State Go!

Maintenance on a Rainy Day

A bit of drive train maintenance and overall cleaning was a good thing with some partial rain last week. One question: What do you use to clean the frame behind the crank?

A clean bike on the Ultimate bike stand

I replaced the Performance brand chain cleaner with one from Finish Line. The latter worked really well and didn't seem to leave a mess all over the place. Not sold on the Performance degreaser though. I'm sure "biodegradable" has something to do with it. Sometimes I just need down right nasty chemicals.

The bike I sponsor (I pay them)

Work Monday

It's always tough packing the truck for the return trip back from the beach. It was a hot week and the weather was overall pretty darn good! One last week before school starts...

North 12 Loop

Riding Goal Accomplished! With overcast skys and the wind out of the North it was a tale of 2 rides from Sanderling to Corolla to Kittyhawk and back. 45 miles and 2.5 hours later I'm a bit stiff and couldn't expect any different. Otherwise I feel good, so far....

Off to the beach!

OBX Rides

So far I've been safe from redneck drivers out on North 12. Today was a nice ride up to the Corolla Beach (end of the road and the start of the sand road to points North). 28 miles round trip and a personal best average speed, which I was suprised by given that the winds were directly off the sound and not much help in either direction along with 94 degrees and humidity. Lots of cyclists out!

Those same winds off the sound brought out the biting flys from the mainland. A bit of a pain up at the beach. Colin, Lauren, Jodi and I brushed it off and spent the day in the waves. Lauren loves to swim with daddy as we "duck-dive" under the waves.

We'll all sleep good tonight.

Almost time

Just about everything is out to load the truck in the morning and head down to OBX. I had my neighbor come over as I'm having problems keeping my 2nd largest cog engaged with the chain. The derailleur is fine for everything else but same. This seems a bit strange as I'd expect shifting to be slightly off for the other cogs as well. It doesn't look bent and the positioning seems okay. Cleaning and lubing didn't help the cause. We left it as is and will let 3Sports handle it when I get back.

I'm fine for the OBX as the flat environment won't get me any anywhere close to this gear. Just hoping it doesn't get worse.

I wish a good week for all. I will post during the week if I can get the dial-up connection working.

Cheers.

Friday Trials

I tried to take today off, just too much going on and there's some stuff at work that needs to be closed so that I can mentally disengage for a week off. Oh well.....





Quite a lightening show last night here in Midlothian. After 13 years of living in MI and 10 years here in the Commonwealth, I HAVE NEVER SEEN OR HEARD ANYTHING LIKE IT! From about 8pm through 1AM, it was a strobe light show. By 10PM both kids were in bed with us. A few of the thunder cracks felt and sounded like they hit the house. They certainly got me to jump twice. Looking outside this morning it's amazing that very few trees are down. However, power is still out to be about 42,000 homes in the area.

Preparing for Beach Week

Not easy getting things wrapped up at work to enjoy a week away. I always end up making a list of tools to bring along for some work around the house AND, as always, end up thinking about not overdoing it with the endless projects so that this can be what it's supposed to be...vacation with the family.

With that in mind, here's what my new list looks like:

• More sand castle building and body surfing with the kids on the beach and less book reading
• Enable down-time for Jodi:
• Take on more meal prep and clean-up.
• Watch kids so she can shop, spend time with her mom, read, sleep, etc.
• We always get in bike rides, fishing, walks with the kids and need to keep that going (they're growing way too fast).
• Call some friends and family I've neglected for too long.
• Dinner: just me and Jodi, make it happen.

Of course, bike rides will also be in there and I'm committed to a ride I haven't done before: loop from Kitty Hawk to Corolla on Hwy 12. I'm estimating about 43 miles. Doable, and it's been decades since I've done distances beyond 30 miles.

The weekend...

Just starting on my first cup of coffee after a ride, shower, light breakfast and some time spent with the kids (and getting ready for a 9am call).

Stuff to do this weekend:

• Noon Pizza Party w/ the family over at church to close out Lareto
• Anniversary dinner this evening (17 years tomorrow)
• Mow the lawn
• Clean bike
• Attend Saturday Eagle Scout Award Ceremony of a friend's son
• Some long rides
• Church
• Pool
• Start getting ready for the beach the week of the 19th

100 again today

It was already 80 degrees when I got off the bike this morning at 7:30AM. Just not fun to be outside. It looks like the weekend might finally bring the SouthEast some reprieve. The heat doesn't bother the deer as I saw 6 today in different pockets.

SOME PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS GRUMBLING THAT THE ROSES HAVE THORNS; I AM THANKFUL THAT THORNS HAVE ROSES.

Alphonse Karr

Too Darn Hot!

98 degrees today with a head index of 106. Even at 6:30AM I was dripping on my ride. Not sure you can drink water fast enough.

Baseball Done

...at least until Fall Ball. Colin's team won 14-2 in 4 innings to close out their experience. It was a fun game.
One more picture for the home team....

What to do....

With baseball finally ending tonight a period of almost 6 months comes to a close. Colin will be ready for a break until Fall Ball. I know I am. Got to start thinking of the things I can now get done. Here's a start:

• Some longer bike rides. My morning rides stop at about an hour and it would be nice to start kicking that up a notch
• House stuff: new knob/latch for the back screen door
• Trip to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg. Time to hit the slides...
• Trip to the D.C. zoo. Kids loved this 2 years ago to see the Pandas
• Wrap up the Private Pilot High Performance Endorsement so that I can fly whatever is in the CAP hangar.
• Beach Week 17 days from now....
• Celebrate 17 years of marriage
• Possible Trip in Sept to the Reno Air Races (if I can get a hall pass)
• Maybe take in a MLB game...

Baseball winding down

The Huguenot Heat lost to a tough Atlee team last night, likely the team to beat in the 16-team tournament. What's tough is that Atlee played the same infield the entire game. However, it's not against the rules. Perhaps just a bit irresponsible given that these kids are 8 year-olds. Colin had another good day hitting: 2 for 2 with a double and a single. 4 for 5 for the 2 games in this tournament to date. The Heat are knocked out of the semi-finals with the loss with 1 came to play tonight. Then, the team finishes up with consolation game on Thursday. It's been a great experience for Colin and his dad couldn't be prouder!

Colin at 2B

Player Announcements

Got it in

The bike came off the wall a 2nd time today to get it's full ride in.

Rain Ride?

Started out thinking I might just get some sprinkles and then headed back before I got too far as it started to come down with no bright spots further on. I don't mind the rain too much, it's just that Richmond isn't terribly bike friendly,for same reason they save money by not building shoulders, and rain and work commutes don't mix well here. Perhaps lunch time if the some heat comes out.

Wisconsin WORS Wacers, we'll try to keep this weather down here past Saturday. No sense having a 24/9 mud festival. Prep Well!

"WE CAN EASILY FORGIVE A CHILD WHO IS AFRAID OF THE DARK; THE REAL TRAGEDY OF LIFE IS WHEN ADULTS ARE AFRAID OF THE LIGHT."

Plato

A good week of riding

Six days of riding has been the most I could offer in a long time, 110 miles. A few of you have do most of that in a single day. It's what I have to give right now. I'm working on a 4-week plan for a possible English Century in August. I've seen a few Carmichael plans and will close on one shortly. I'll decide on the "entry" shortly.

More Baseball

Colin behind the plate
No hit this time, a nice shot up the middle if the Pitcher wasn't a Hoover.

The Huguenot Heat drew the top seed for the semi-finals starting tomorrow, after winning their 3 pool games this week. The icing was a 4-2 win over their sister National League team from Huguenot. A great game. So it's likely 2 ball games tomorrow and a repeat of this game. Colin is doing well and having a blast. He's also worn out from 4 days of baseball camp that ended yesterday.

Another Funny Thing...

An old guy cut in front of me coming out of his driveway this morning. Never looked, never saw me. I yelled "you gotta stop". He drove off. While I was never really in jeopardy (I saw him coming) I've often wondered why people that darn near run somebody over just keep going and never stop.

I thought nothing of it until I saw him again 2-3 miles later. He turned around and went looking for me in the neighborhood. Due to my Duck experience a few weekends ago I'm a bit leery now of anybody that pulls up next to me with sheet metal. He stopped and rolled down his window. He sincerely apologized, several times, for almost hitting me. I finally stopped spinning around him (I don't unclip for most people) and thanked him for apologizing and coming to find me. We shook hands and he was on his way.

I'm still convinced that it's not often the things that happen to you in this life time. It's your response to what happens that makes the difference. This guy responded. At first I felt a little remorseful for being a bit rough on him initially. Upon reflection I shaked that off. My life is important to me and I'll speak out to anyone that puts it harms way needlessly. This guy responded well. Something to remember next time I screw up.

a funny thing happened on the way to the ride....

I don't ride much with others. Not for lack of desire, just haven't met a whole lot of aficionados and haven't tried the sponsored rides yet (soon). Well, I started my 6am ride this morning and my triathlete neighbor across the street steps on my wheel about a third of the way through. He and I ride for a bit and then 2 of his other triathlete female friends pass us going the other and double back. Now four of us are riding together and it was enjoyable (No evil thoughts guys). That ended when they said "Sorry to hijack your ride, but let's do James River Hill". I wasn't ready for that as I've been putting in more "foundation miles" in the last 2 weeks. Now I won't get invited to ride with others very often shouting "next time" so I went. It's not a terrible hill, just gets the blood boiling if you haven't been doing hill climbs and are in less than "optimal" shape like I am.

To make a long story short, my legs are shot right now. The feel like the front wheel of the guy who hit the dog yesterday during Stage 9 (was it 9?) . It won't always be like this.

iPod....i like!

Based upon the advice of a friend (Thanks mdc) I picked up an iPod shuffle a few months ago. Now, how do I get it back from my 4 year old? She loves music. It sure makes the ride appear to go much faster. Always, just curb-side earpiece in to hear the traffic. The size is awesome as I hardly know it's there.

My niece showed me an on-line tool for downloading and now I'm hooked finding every song I ever liked. Right now the shuffle has quite a collection of different stuff, a lot of it from the 80's admittedly. I picked up quickly that it helps to have something with a reasonable cadence (sharp as a bowling ball I am). At the risk of moronic exposure I'll provide a taste:

• Alan Parson's Project
• Pink Floyd
• Earth, Wind and Fire
• Kool & the Gang
• eiffel 65 - I'm Blue (kids love it)
• Rascal Flatts (Highway - again for the kids, even the 40+ ones)
• Eminem - Lose Yourself

Hard to believe the last one myself, but loved 8-mile and MI will always be in my blood. MDC, I've glanced down your play list a few times and have to admit that I don't recognize the tunes. My ignorance. However, it's nice to know I can find them and check it out. If I had to throw one song out there that maybe most would not think of it's the following. Pink Floyd (The Wall) "Run Like Hell" Disc 2

Done with Mr. Mom

After a long weekend being a single parent, the Mrs. is back and the kids are happy. I hold off on the riding when she's out of town. I feel a bit funny having someone else watch the kids while I ride and the wife's not local.

Some new purchases: Giro Atmos Helment and a Specialized Rider's Club Jersey. The Giro was selected after looking at the Bell Sweep R, Specialized Decibel and the Atmos. After getting advice about the Bell (thanks Scott) and not being able to find many Decibels, the Atmos seemed obvious and I found a nice price on E-bay. I used it yesterday afternoon during my 96 degree ride. The cooling was very noticeable compared to my old cheapo. I still have my pre-historic Bell Biker out in the garage (and I think I'll leave it there).

Thunderstorm Season

Muggy and hot Monday through today. It's been a standard clear morning followed by afternoon thunderstorms. The 6am rides at least provide less humidity. Already 80 degrees out by 9am. Good reason to pound the H2O.

My oldest turned 9 today. It seems like just yesterday....He's getting so tall! He's not beyond hugs and snuggling up to dad yet. That will be a sad day.

Gotta Love NC Rednecks

Two Fridays ago I made the ride from Duck mile post 4 down to the Kittyhawk bypass and back. On the return and heading into the town of Duck, a pickup truck with NC plates pulls up along side and shouts "the trail path costs a million dollars a mile, use it a$$hole". Sidebar: I don't ride on the one-side-only trail path that extends up and down North 12. I've nearly bought the farm twice from cars that pull out onto the cross walks at connecting streets. So me and my other cycling comrades are out on the small shoulder of N12.

Back to the story: I yelled out a very precisely honed and well-thought out "fox you" (forgetting that a 1/2 ton wins a chicken fight with 2-wheeler every time). The driver pulls in front of me straddling the shoulder onto the grass. I take the left side out into the highway. He passes again, honks his horn along side me and starts gradually moving over to force me off. I hit the brakes, he drives off, our brief dance is over. No, "fox you" was not worth my life, but I stopped at the Duck Police office and gave a report anyway.

This was a first (and hopefully) a last.

York Muscle Car Madness

Here's a link to the York Annual Muscle Car Nostalgia Event and Drag Race put on by Jodi's dad:

http://www.yorkus30.com/

July Already?

After a nice week at the beach and sending the folks off back to MI I daresay it's a tad quieter here.

Good news and bad news. The good news: Colin made his 8U all star team. The bad news: Colin made his 8U all star team. Practices start next week and will take him through the tournament at the beginning of August, with side tournament that starts next weekend. That means' he'll miss his grandpa's car show next weekend up in York, PA. He's ecstatic, just changes a few plans, AND that's what it's all about. I'm Colin's dad!

A parent was nice enough to send along some post-season pictures (We're all there).

.

The Beach is This Way

After a quick trip to Boston it's time to start getting the gear out for a week at the Beach. Yes. The parents are on their way down from MI with my niece and should arrive this afternoon. Then packing and yard work and off to OBX Sunday morning.

Should be a great week for some long rides....

The Heat is on

Richmond is looking at 97 degrees today with a heat index of 101 (w/humidity factored). Lots of riders out this morning while the temp was a cool 72.

A heartbreaker and end of season for the Angels

Alas, baseball has come to the end. After a clutch hit from Colin that cleared the bases in the top of the 4th (just be rain postponement for 2 days) we picked up where left off last night. In the end it wasn't enough and the Angels lost by 1 run in the bottom of the 6th. A great season and the coach is glad it's over. More time to hit the bike!

I almost don't know what to do tonight and tomorrow...time to create a list. A good weekend to all...

High of 97 today

Hot in Richmond today. Calling for 97 degrees with humidity that makes it feel like it's 103! Hard to breath out there.

The weekend:

• Last games for the official baseball season. Playoffs start Tues
• Sunday end of season picnic
• Fix the attic fan: no power and its very hot up there!
• Fix some sprinklers
• Rides
• Pool
• Margaritas

Cyclists without Helmets?

With the nice weather now everybody and their brother is out on a bike. I'm always intrigued by those that don't wear helmets. It's either ignorance or quite possibly they've already smacked the cranium on the hard top and scrambled their senses. So............. do you wave to these people even if they wave to you? Part of me says no. The other part considers the "rap" that cyclists have of being unfriendly (at least not waving or nodding). I'm still uncertain there and have "also" considerered yelling out "get a helmet". I haven't done that yet: last I checked Armstrong didn't die and leave me as the bike god.

No ride yesterday, I don't have my HR monitor and I may have overdone it Monday. My Left quad feels like its been over-extended. Better today.

Friday!

Almost to the bottom of the mug and comtemplating yet another weekened. Other than the holiday weekend it's seems like it's just all baseball. That's true of this weekend and more so. Friday night and Saturday afternoon games, then a picnic and skills day at the fields on Sunday. I can see the light as this is the 2nd to last weekend, then playoffs. Then, summmmmmeeeeeerrrrrrr. I might even be able to start participating in some group rides with no practice and my Saturday's open.

Colin on the right

However, it's likely my little guy is going to make the 8 year-old all star team (hitting .900). Then the tough choice: let him do more practices throughout July with tournaments in August. Seems like too much.

The neighbor just called and wants to know if we should power wash our houses this weekend. Might as well before it hits the 90's with 90% humidity.

Huguenot Little League Angels

The Angels collected a "W" last night over the White Sox. This was a make-up game from rain 2 Saturday's ago.

The clan had a great Memorial Day weekend. We took our son out of school Thurs/Fri and left for OBX right after his game Wednesday night. Although arriving at midnight, cold ones were had and we kicked-off a weekend of great weather and good bike rides. I've got a favorite Duck to Corolla ride that I like. I end up going North or South first with a quick check of the wind. Most of the wind this weekend was out of the Southwest off the Sound so I spin that way first, toward Kittyhawk. Downtown Duck can get a bit tricky. We had a lot of visitors over the holiday weekend. When they hit Duck shops they tend to walk in the bike lanes. While we have a paved jogging/walking path it's an absolute no-go for fast riding. Cars coming out of the neighborhoods just don't pay attention to any activity on those paths. I've come close to having my life ended on the one occasion I did try it. If you can believe it, the driver was actually mad at me. Go figure.... I did my best to give him a new paradigm.

Anyhow, it's still the best set of flat, good roads and makes for great rides if the wind isn't howling.

Some new "Wrap"

Another set of "white" tape. It was getting ratty so time to put some new stuff on. I chose the fi'zi:k microtex tape upon the recommendation of the LBS mechanic. "Most cork in white tends to get grimy over time. This stuff will keep clean with mild soap and water" he says. We'll give it a go.

Also got another pair of Performance Quattro's as some lucky schmuck at Lowes now has my last pair. Despite going back twice no one has turned them in, and I guess I didn't expect them to, which is a sad statement of the times. But then again, My BAD. At $30 I like them (on sale most times from Performance, down from $60).

I'm not sure about any of the Landis stuff anymore. I do know this, I hope they either bust him or clear him, AND SOON, so that the Sport can move on...

Finally, We've got some baseball games to reschedule due to both games getting rained out this Friday and Saturday. Most likely scenario is a game instead of practice this week. Then, down to the Outer Banks late Wednesday night for the long holiday weekend, and some great road rides.

Tunes

Based on a recommendation from mdcmoto, I now have an iPod shuffle to help with the rides (curb-side ear out of-course for safety). I like it so far. Now just need to choose all the music.

Weekend:

1. Coffee
2. Scouts
3. Baseball (more rain)
4. Mulch (if no rain)
5. Shrek the 3rd
6. Church
7. Coffee
8. yard sales
9. find a new HR monitor

IF WE DON’T CHANGE OUR DIRECTION, WE ARE LIKELY TO END UP WHERE WE ARE HEADED.

Chinese Proverb

Successful Weekend

The rains kept a perimeter around our weekend activities and threatened a few times, finally letting loose on Saturday night, well after our main activities ended. The Angels got in 2 baseball games, 1 win 1 loss. The win was preserved after holding off a last inning rally by the Orioles.

The Virginia Wing Search & Rescue Evaluation was a success. Aircraft, aircrews, ground crews and vans travelled to FCI, our home base, from all over the state. Over a dozen missions were planned and executed with everyone arriving back safely. Our squadron served up food as a fundraiser and we did the best we have ever done. We have a great set of folks, both adults (seniors) and cadets. We were also the largest squadron present by far at approximately 27 members. It's a great organization to be a a part of.

The photo at right is the "Tarmac" at FCI filled with CAP planes. While we always have 1 aircraft stationed at our hangar, it was nice to see 8 other aircraft completely filling all of that empty blacktop we usually have. Closest is a 172P. The second aircraft is CAP's latest aircraft with the latest "glass" cockpit, the Garmin 1000. Nice equipment.

T-storms in the Commonwealth

7-Day Forecast for Latitude 37.52N and Longitude -77.65W:


A weekend "inside" catching up on house stuff and reading some books sounds really good right now. Problem is the little league games have to be made up which would likely be the middle of next week. It happens. The real kicker will be the SAR EVAL. It has no rain date. With 60% chance of thunderstorms I'm not too optimistic. Being that it lasts all day, that will be a bummer and a person elation at the same time!


PROGRESS ALWAYS INVOLVES RISK; YOU CAN’T STEAL SECOND BASE AND KEEP YOUR FOOT ON FIRST - Federick Wilcox

Thursday........................blah

Well it's Thursday....and I've gotten in ZEEEEEEEEEERO bike rides. I don't feel well. Not necessarily sick, but have no energy and the early bed times don't seem to help. It may be some type of stomach virus as the old stomach has a minor amount of queasiness. Can you say "lethargic". Maybe getting the blood moving would help!

When is it too much?

Reflecting upon all of the stuff that we were involved in this past weekend, it seems exhausting just thinking about it. I've heard the expression: "I needed the week to start to get a break from the weekend". That feels solidly on target about now.

Both sets of grandparents are now gone, including my folks transitioning back to MI from the winter in FL. They were on-hand for Colin's First Communion. It was a fantastic day for him. The highlight for him was dinner at his favorite Japanese Steak House and having the grandparents watch him play baseball.

So we got through 2 of those baseball games and the festivities on Sunday. Then another baseball practice last night. As manager the recording constantly feeding through my head is "remember that they're 7 and 8 year-olds, remember that they're...".

That's a lonely pile of mulch in the backyard waiting to be spread.

Next is mildly busy work-week with, yes, a baseball game Friday night. The different twist Saturday is handing over the team to someone else while our CAP squadron participates in a Search & Rescue Evaluation proctored by the USAF. Now if the weather holds.



Early bedtimes are the remedy this week.

Monday Morning Coffee

I'm through my many cups of Monday Morning Full Lead and the blogs and important websites. What a great weekend here in the Commonwealth.

We hit all of the things planned last Friday: 2 more baseball games, Whistlestop Festival, Cub-scout camp-out and even got some mulch and fertililizing done. It takes writing these posts sometimes to realize how much we do!

The highlight was the camp-out. Colin and his 4-year-old sister Lauren really enjoy the camping. It was non-stop play-time among all of the kids. I really enjoyed just watching them play and run around. We also got 2 sessions of fishing in. Not much action, but enjoyed the quality time with son and daughter. Since someone else in the Pack was responsible for all of the food, we didn't have to lift a finger in that department, which was great hit for the Mrs. She joined us after closing out the treasurer duties at the Whistlestop.

We have a busy week planned with family coming into town this weekend for Colin's First Communion. Sunday will be a very special day for him. Time to go pitch some more mulch!

A great week to all!

Another Busy Weekend

Man it seems like we got to Friday again a little bit to quickly. With rain in the forecast the Little League games appear a bit iffy for tonight and tomorrow, and then there's the Cub Scout Campout Saturday night. Did I mention that the bi-annual Whistlestop festival at Robious Elementary is socked in there tomorrow too? I sure hope the weather holds as we'll have one disappointed Scout and younger sister if both baseball and camping get canned for the weekend.

Go Angels!

"People ask me what I'm on. What am I on? I'm on my bike - busting my ass - six hours a day. What are you on?" - Lance Armstrong

The Unreasonable Man

Here is a link for updates on the TransIowa Race: www.ride424.com

Possible thunderstorms today so a ride is in question.....

THE REASONABLE MAN ADAPTS HIMSELF TO THE CONDITIONS THAT SURROUND HIM . . .

THE UNREASONABLE MAN ADAPTS SURROUNDING CONDITIONS TO HIMSELF ...

ALL PROGRESS DEPENDS ON THE UNREASONABLE MAN.

George Bernard Shaw

Coming down with something. It's too nice to be inside but just not feeling well. I'm hoping it was just something that I ate last night and that it will go away. I got in a short ride Monday just to loosen up stiff legs, but still not "right".

Best of luck to Scott Cole, an old friend, that will be competing in the Trans-Iowa race this weekend. It's hard to explain, and this link will do the job: http://transiowa.blogspot.com/

Stiff Monday

Legs still a bit stiff Monday from a hard ride last Thursday and some hills on Friday. That coupled with a lot of stairs to climb over the weekend and seems like a short light ride is the plan of the day.

A good weekend of Little League Baseball. Fantastic 80 degree weather Sunday brought the Marguerita crowd out.

A quick Thursday ride for a little less than an hour and 17 miles. It's getting nice around the neighborhoods with spring eventhough it was overcast and in the 50's.

I intend to ride for 90 minutes today and then get ready for a busy weekend:

• Celebrate America Day Parade at my son's school at 12Noon
• Little League game at 5pm tonight
• Cub Scout Pack meeting at 7pm
• Little League game at 9am Saturday morning
• Head down to the outer banks for some maintenance work in the afterrnoon
• Back to Midlothian (Richmond) Sunday morning.

Have a great weekend and please join Viriginia in a moment of silence at 12Noon EDT today to remember the lives lost at Virginia Tech on Monday and to pray for better days ahead.

Windy in VA

A cold, overcast and windy, very windy day. Winds at 22mph gusting to 40mph. I hate to say "trainer".

By the way, a belated CONGRATULATIONS to the Frozen Four's National Champion Michigan State Spartans! GO STATE!



PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS BLAMING THEIR CIRCUMSTANCES FOR WHAT THEY ARE. I DON’T BELIEVE IN CIRCUMSTANCES. THE PEOPLE WHO GET ON IN THIS WORLD ARE THE PEOPLE WHO CAN GET UP AND LOOK FOR THE CIRCUMSTANCES THEY WANT, AND, IF THEY CAN’T FIND THEM, MAKE THEM.

George Bernard Shaw

Spring in VA

After a few months away, I'm back, with apologies to those who train in the slush and sub-freezing weather.

The kids' spring break was spent in FL and Charleston, SC. Three good rides on "Alligator Alley" from Naples toward Miami. Fast driving but nice shoulders.

HR monitor starting to blink and will likely be in the market for a new one soon. Suggestions?

Back On Line

After several weeks trying to figure "where" my blog site went AND working through the transition away from the beta. I'm back on.....More to come.