Ride Vermillion

Bike Trails & Areobars

2009-05-26T13:07:00.005-05:00

So this last Sunday the family and I decided to get out of Vermillion and look for a fun family outing. We decided to load up the bikes and make the trek to the big city of Sioux Falls for a little bike trail fun. You might ask "Why drive to Sioux Falls to ride bike?". Well the bike trail in Vermillion is all of about 3 miles long and riding around the streets of Vermillion gets a little boring as the town is all of 3 miles long at the most, not to mention dodging cars with a 6 & 8 year old riders.

We got to Sertoma park and unloaded our rides and we were off. I had no plans on how far or how fast we would be riding as this was family time and I was up for whatever the Mrs. and the kids were comfortable with. We set a pace at about may-be 7 to 8 mph, which my 6 year old girl could handle but still stopping frequently, as in every 2 or 3 miles for her to have a break. Remember now this is a 6 year old girl and an 8 year old boy riding. The longest distance ridden by either of them to that point was Mr. T. a big 7 mile ride last year and Ms. K about 3 miles.

This is the first time either of them had really ridden on a bike trail with true traffic, there were plenty of walkers, roller bladers and bikes out that afternoon. I carefully reminded them of the rules for riding a trail like that, as in SHARE the trail. No riding side by side but in a line, which consisted of me leading, then the kids with the Mrs. riding sweep. We rode and rode. We rode way further than I had imagined and after a while arrived at Falls Park where we took a nice break and walked around the park. This was way further than I had imagined us ever riding that day and at that point the group pretty much decided we were going to try to ride the whole loop.

We departed Falls Park in our single line riding style and up to this point had not had any issues, sure we got passed, but people were friendly, pleasantly saying "on your left" as they rolled on by us. The kids were really catching on riding a straight line and not being too distracted, but remember my kids are 6 & 8 so distractions should be expected. About this time I look up to see a guy coming towards us riding hard, I mean this guy is in a full areo position and riding like it's a time trial on the Tour de France. I call back to the family to give warning to stay in the line as a biker was approaching. My 8 year old glances around me to get a look and of course his bike follows his glance. Granted he strayed out of our single file line a few inches but NEVER crossed the center of the path.

ZOOM, the super cool, all powerful, areobar, BIKE TRAIL, rider goes flying by me, I thought I heard someone say something put figured it was just some walkers chatting to each other. My wife waited a 1/2 mile or so and said "Did you hear what that guy said?" I responded "No" which is when she informed me he had told her to "Keep her f$!#ing kids off the bike path". I could hardly believe it, isn't that is what the bike trail is for? A place where families and kids can ride together safely. I'm glad my wife was thinking clearly enough to wait to tell me or I would have ran down that guy on my mountain bike and they would still be dragging the river for his body.

Regardless of that one idiot, we had a great ride on the Sioux Falls bike trail and I wish we had a trail of that caliber here in Vermillion. I'm also very proud to report the whole family completed the complete loop of the trail. The longest ride by far for everyone in my family, except of course me. It did help my training in one way...I got in a lot of saddle time that day.

Later

Dog Attack

2009-05-08T06:44:00.009-05:00

Yeah, I once again haven't posted in a while because it would read something like this. I went to work, I rode my bike, I went to sleep. Well last nights ride produced a pretty good bike story. Good story if you like pain and blood that is.

Cycling Cathy and I rode out of Vermillion about 5:30 for a pleasant evening ride. Our planned route was the Meckling loop which is right at 30 miles, it is a route I ride at least once a week during cycling season and am very familiar with it and the dogs on it. We had a nice ride into a mild breeze and chatted about the upcoming Tour de Kota. We made it to the 1/2 way point in the ride and made the turn to put the wind at our backs. As we approached Meckling Cathy said to me "if that dog comes out after us I'm calling the police." I reached in my jersey pocket and pulled out my "Halt" dog spray just to be ready, you know just in case.

Out came the BIG black dog, and I mean small cow type big dog. I probably had the chance to out run him but that would have meant sacrificing my friend to the beast so the decision was quick and easy, stop, fight and defend. I quickly tried to stop and dismount so I could defend myself on two feet instead of two wheels; the the dog lept at my face. In a totally reflexive defensive move I raised my arm to protect my face. That is when the dog sunk his fangs into my wrist. The dog stumbled after his lunge at me which gave me the chance to get off my bike and deploy the "Halt" spray. I hit him with the whole damn can. It didn't stop him, in fact at this point he went after Cathy, who was now off her bike. Cathy, being the wise lady she is, used her bike as a defensive shield keeping it between her and the dog. She also hit the dog multiple times with dog spray.

For whatever reason the attack finally stopped, not sure if it was the pepper spray or just all the commotion. At this point it was time to access the damage. I ended up with a pretty good puncture "fang wound" on my wrist and some deep scratches on the bottom of my wrist from where he drug his bottom teeth across my flesh.

As I stood on the road bleeding, Cathy called the sheriffs department and made a quick trip to Toby's restaurant to get some ice to put on my injury. During this time the hill billy that owns the dog is trying to catch said beast. His wife, who is standing there watching me bleed makes the comment "we ain't got no money". What ?!?!? I'm standing in the middle of the road bleeding and instead of offering a towel, some water, may-be a flippin band-aid she is worried about if she is getting sued.

A person in the house next door finally came out and offered some assistance. They were nice enough to allow me into their home to wash off some blood and try to clean the wound some. As I'm cleaning up the neighbor lady makes the comment that she does not leave her house when "that dog is out".

The deputy arrived shortly after I got done cleaning up and took our information. All this time the dogs owner still has not secured the dog. Finally about 30 to 40 minutes after the attack the dog was caught. About this time Liz rolled up with the bike rack on the car and collected me and Cathy and off the the hospital I went.

Once at the hospital I got my wound properly cleaned and got a tetanus shot. I was just getting ready to leave as the deputy walked in with the wonderful news that the dog has never had a rabies shot. Oh Joy! Here we go. Much discussion was had by the Dr. people and they finally decided to wait on starting the rabies vaccination series and try to get the dog tested ASAP.

That pretty much sums up the whole event, at this point I'm working with law enforcement on getting the dog destroyed and tested. Positive thoughts for a negative rabies test would be much appreciated.

Later

Yup I'm still alive

2009-03-17T14:00:00.003-05:00

Yeah, I know I haven't posted anything in like 4 weeks and the reason is I've had nothing going on to post about. Ride the trainer...ride the trainer....ride the trainer, you get the picture. Riding the trainer is bad enough in its self let alone blogging about it.

Saturday I finally freed the road bike from the cursed trainer and attended the St Patrick's day ride in Yankton. We had a great time Biking Brady, Cycling Cathy, The Hammer and Tez were all there. We even were treated to a great pre-ride lunch and post-ride beers at the Club House.

Sunday we were off and riding again Craig T., Biking Brady and myself made a quick run to Elk Point and back the wind was tough on the way there and really not very helpful on the way back. The wind really did make for hard riding but if you wait for the wind to die down you won't be riding much in South Dakota.

Monday night Biking Brady and I headed out again for a quick 20 miles and it was pretty quick as we rolled out of town about 5:15 and rolled back in exactly an hour later.

It finally feels like riding season has really started after 3 days of riding in a row. No monster mileage rides yet as the Elk Point and back was the longest of the 3 rides but it feels really great to get out on the road again.

Oh yeah, that new bike is the best biking purchase I have ever made.

Later

I'm in, are you?

2009-02-13T19:00:00.004-06:00

Tour de Kota 2009, I registered tonight for the whole week. I missed riding the whole week last year for the first time since it started. I'm looking forward to another good week of riding...even though it is covering a lot of the same territory. I do have to say I'm very excited about the Chamberlain to Pierre day as that is some of the prettiest country in South Dakota and also has some ummm.... should we say.... a few small rolling hills ;) .

Yeah I haven't posted for while..so here you go

2009-02-11T11:19:00.002-06:00

Sponsor an Executive

2009-01-28T11:35:00.002-06:00

Weekend Stuff

2009-01-26T15:08:00.002-06:00

I attended the FAB meeting in Sioux Falls on Saturday and became a new member of the club. It was a good time and great to see so many people show up for a meeting to support their club and cycling in general. I guess now I have a dual membership going between the Lane Hogs and FAB. My opinion is you can never belong to too many bike organizations.

Sunday I was feeling the need to get out and get some fresh air so I decided to give a little snow/ice biking a try. Looking back I should have went for a walk instead. My hats off to you good people that do it everyday, but it's not for me. The temperature was a brisk 7 degrees which does not bother me a bit. The problem I have is the ice and just overall traction. I tried riding on the snow,I tried hitting all the clear spots but always felt like I was a heartbeat away from a bone shattering crash. It might not have helped that I got a good look at the kErnEl's wrist on Saturday. Will I still ride during the winter? Oh yeah, I'm just going to stick to times with I can keep the rubber on dry ground.

Later

A Whole Lot of Nothing

2009-01-15T14:49:00.002-06:00

That's about all I have had going on. It's cold, the weather is crappy and I think I have a bit of a case of the winter blues. I have been pretty faithful on my resolutions so far and have been getting some good cardio workouts in. I could REALLY use a good bike ride, but with no studded tires and a strong dislike for negative temperatures that might need to wait for a bit. Sounds like a bit of a thaw might be in store for us the next couple of days, I for one am ready for it.

Later

Now back to your regularly scheduled blogging

2009-01-04T17:59:00.002-06:00

Yep, I'm back... I'm sure all my 5 or 6 followers were just dying for me to get back in blogging mode. I hope everyone had a good holiday season. I really do like the holidays and getting together with friends and family but I'm also glad when it's done and life can get back to normal. Well as normal as it gets.

Since it's now 2009 I guess everyone is busy making and breaking New Year resolutions. I've got a couple of New Year resolutions/goals I'm going to work for. I believe in the KISS (keep it simple stupid) method for resolutions so here they are...

1. Ride my bike more... farther and harder.

2. Eat less and better.

3. Finish Gut-Check.

There you have it my quick and simple resolutions/goals for 2009.

Later

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-23T06:50:00.001-06:00

I'm done blogging for the year, between work and family events I've got a pretty busy couple of weeks. I'll be back to posting in January, I know, you can't wait. In the mean time have a Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year.

Later

I feel it comin on.

2008-12-13T18:22:00.002-06:00

No not the cold weather, wind or snow, but some sort of cold/sickness. I've got a sore throat and just overall a crappy feeling. Oh well I got to get it out of the way sometime, might as well be now and hopefully I can get it kicked in a couple of days. I've already tried to get a jump start on killing the bug by downing a couple vitamin C tablets and a good dose of Zinc.

I did get a short ride in this afternoon though even though I was not feeling the best. I just couldn't pass up a mid December day in the 40's. I toured around town on the mountain bike for about an hour and half. I have know idea how far or fast and I really don't care, it was just nice to be outside on the bike.

Not much else happening, so I will leave you with a quick tip we learned at our house this weekend.
No matter how dirty your cell phone gets NEVER run it though the washing machine.

Later

Cross Training, I guess.

2008-12-05T19:40:00.005-06:00

I'm having a real hard time devoting time to the trainer this year so far. I just really hate the stupid thing so I've decided to leave it alone until January 1st. Instead I will be working out the the treadmill and with weights. I've done pretty good this week spending some time on the treadmill everyday. I set the incline at 8% and the speed at 3.8 mph and I'm off. It's not a run, but a real brisk walk up a steep hill and after 2 miles of that I'm pretty much rubber legged. It's amazing how quickly a person can adapt though the first week 2 miles at that pace was, I'll be honest pretty difficult, now it's almost easy. I guess it's time to crank that incline up to 10% the speed will not increase as a runner I am not.

Yeah I know get on your bike and ride to work is the answer to all my problems right? I do have several reasons why I don't ride to work and here they are...

1. To get to town I have 1/2 mile of 4 lane 65 mph highway (SD Hwy 50) with no shoulder. I will ride this in the summer on my road bike but not in the dark... EVER, which is what I would be forced to do going to and coming home from work.

2. Kids, the Mrs. usually takes the kiddos to and from school, but I have the more flexible schedule in case a call from the school comes in due to a sick kid or early out.

3. Work out time, I spend my lunch hour working out everyday. I can get a good work out in without taking time away from the family at night.

There you have my 3 excuses the 2nd and 3rd I could work around, but unless you have a way of talking the town of Vermillion allowing me to carve out my very own single track into town the 1st is going to be a deal breaker.

On a different note, if anyone in the Vermillion area reading this is up for a Sunday afternoon roll around town let me know. I plan to go unless it's to slick to keep the rubber on the road.

Later!

Thanksgiving Weekend Leftovers

2008-11-30T16:18:00.002-06:00

We spent the Turkey day holiday at the in-laws in Minnesota. We left Thanksgiving day morning and made the 3 hour trek to Blue Earth, MN, home of the Jolly Green Giant. The weekend was spent spending time with the family, eating, watching football, napping and eating. We had a nice relaxing trip with the only exception to the relaxation was partaking in a bit of Black Friday madness.

Who is the idiot whoever came up with this idea anyway. Yes, I know I do have a choice to go or not to go, but why the insanely early hours to open the doors. Wouldn't the same sale be just effective at say 7:00 or 8:00 A.M? Any way we arrived in the parking lot of the Blue Earth Wally World at 4:10 A.M. for the 5:00 A.M. opening. We ended up standing in line for about 40 minutes and 30 of that was inside the entry way, due to a very nice Walmart manager, in return she was not trampled by the crowd. Once in we collected the items we came for we checked out and then went back in to do some Christmas shopping for the kids, since they were still sound asleep at Grandma and Grandpa's house.

After a weekend of entirely too much laying around and eating I figured a ride was in order this afternoon. I considered the trainer, but the thought of it made me a little sick to my stomach, so I suited up and jumped on the trusted old Gary Fischer for a bit of urban Mt. biking around Vermillion. The temperature was a pleasant 32 degrees with a steady but light snow for most of the ride. It was nice to get out even though it was only for an hour and 1/2 or so. I was even the responsible bike owner and washed and lubed my bike when I got home.

Not much else for other news so....

Later

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T09:32:00.002-06:00

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving, and take it easy on the turkey.

A Coupon for your Christmas Shopping

2008-11-24T14:21:00.001-06:00

Misc. Stuff

2008-11-17T19:15:00.002-06:00

Not much bike riding happening except for the trainer so here is the latest misc stuff going on, if you care, read on.

This last weekend was spent deer hunting. Did you know that cold weather biking gear makes great deer hunting attire? I put on my insulated bibs and one of my biking base layers on top and then proceeded to layer on my normal hunting cloths. I was toasty warm as I sat in my blind Saturday morning.

The first morning in the deer blind was great, the blind it's self is located in the wind mill tower on my parents yard about 12 feet above ground. I got to watch a 2 point buck and a yearling fight at about 50 yards way. I saw the big 4 x 5 buck which had been hanging around but could not get a good clear shot at him. The high point of the morning was watching a fawn walk up to my blind and tap its hoof on a small puddle to break the ice to get a drink. It was all of 5 yards way from me, I could hear each breath it took. I watched lots of deer the first morning but never took a shot.

My shot came Saturday afternoon. I had just finished a cup of coffee and was going to start layering on the clothes to head back to my blind when I glanced out the door of my parents house. Walking across the old feedlot about 100 yards from my parents front door was the 4 x 5 buck I had saw that morning. I grabbed my rifle, which was leaning against the wall of the entryway to my parents house, opened the screen door and took the shot from inside my parents house. If you are in need of venison I now have some to spare.

I other news the Mrs. is off to a conference in Chicago this week so I'm home alone with the kids. If I don't post before the end of the week you know they have taken over the place and I have probably locked myself in a closet with a bottle of something.

Later

Remember to Thank a Veteran Today.

2008-11-11T07:51:00.000-06:00

Uuuhhhhgggg

2008-11-08T13:23:00.004-06:00

It's that time of the year, the wind is blowing, the snow is flying and the temperature is just down right chilly. You know what that means....the bike is officially on the trainer as of today (you can stop laughing now Snakebite). Yes, if nice weekend day with clear dry roads rolls around it will be off the trainer and on the road in a heartbeat. As much as I hate the trainer and riding indoors I do realize for me to have a chance of completing Gut-Check next year much trainer time is going to be required. Biking Brady has graciously offered to um borrow (not burn and give to me, we would never do that) some of his training DVD's which I think will be helpful. Not much else going on except trying to stay warm and trying to get motivated to go jump on my trainer bound bike.

Later

Don't forget to:

2008-11-03T07:50:00.000-06:00

Busy Day

2008-11-01T20:54:00.009-05:00

What a busy great day!

Biking Brady and I rolled out of Vermillion about 9:30 or so this morning for a 50 mile spin. We planned on meeting some rollers from Yankton, Sioux City and Sioux Falls who were riding from North Sioux City to Yankton today. It was a bit brisk when we left I think the temperature was at 39 degrees on our departure. Once out on the road we warmed up quickly settling in at about an 18 mph pace kept the heart pumping and quickly warmed us up. Our timing was almost perfect as we arrived at the meeting place with the other riders only minutes before they showed up. We rolled into Elk Point about noon where we stopped for a couple adult beverages before Biking Brady and I mentioned that we both had plans for the afternoon so we had to get the wheels turning again. This was my first longer ride on my new bike and I couldn't be happier. I do not have one complaint about the new bike and even better yet my left hand and arm do not have one bit of pain after a 50 mile ride at a pace of just under 18 mph for the entire trip. On my old bike it would be about 2 days before I felt my left pinkie finger again. Cycling Cathy I'm sorry I could not join you for your leg of the trek to Yankton.

Once home I jumped in the shower and quickly got ready to go watch the Lady Coyotes volleyball game. They have a great team this year and took care the Fighting Sioux in 3 sets. I have a second cousin who is a senior on the team so it was fun to watch her in action and visit with some relatives I don't get to see very often.

That pretty much wraps up the day and after all the running around and riding I'll be glad I get an extra hour of sleep tonight.

Later

Halloween Pictures

2008-11-01T17:20:00.005-05:00

Search for the perfect cage

2008-10-26T17:04:00.004-05:00

Since I had a meeting in Yankton on Saturday and was not able to ride on one of the only nice days this week I thought I would head to Yankton a little early in search of the perfect bottle cages to complement my new bike. Yes, I could order them from my LBS but would like to check them out a bit before I make up my mind.

I headed to the first bike shop in Yankton (I won't use names to protect both shops lack of inventory) and found 2 carbon fiber cages. The first priced at $45.00 and the second priced at $55.00 with the difference between the two a whole 4 ounces. Come on a $100.00 for flippin bottle cages! I told the dude that was helping me that I need to lose 4 ounces around my middle before 4 ounces on a cage was worth $10.00 extra so needless to say my search continued.

I pulled into the second shop with only a few minutes to spare before my meeting was to start and a few seconds was all I needed. When I asked about carbon fiber cages the dude behind the counter looked at me like I had a third eye in the middle of my forehead. His comment was "I've only sold one of those since I've been here, but I have lots of steel and aluminum ones to pick from".

Well call me picky but when I have just purchased a full carbon fiber bike I would like a cage that one, matches the bike and two, does not rip my bottles to pieces.

I do have to make the comment that both shops were very nice and tried to be helpful, but come on only two higher end bottle cages in the whole town of Yankton. I guess my search will continue, next time in the big city of Sioux Falls which hopefully will have a bit more inventory than the shops in Yankton.

Later

TGIF

2008-10-24T15:10:00.001-05:00

A little political fun.

www.palinaspresident.us

Opening Weekend Pictures

2008-10-20T20:54:00.010-05:00

BB gun practice.

More BB gun practice.

Redneck hunting at its best. No pheasants were harmed during this procedure. 13 acres of 8 foot tall fire bush weeds and not one bird.

Opening Weekend

2008-10-20T13:54:00.008-05:00

Another opening weekend of pheasant season has come and gone and it was a pretty good one overall.

Saturday morning started with a little work on the deer stand to get it prepared for the upcoming season. Not much work was needed except for cleaning out a bit of raccoon poop and putting a few loose boards back in place. It should be all set now I will just need the deer to show up at the right time and place.

After deer stand repairs were made it was onto BB gun training and practice. I gave Mr. T. and Ms. K. safety instructions and showed them the proper way to aim and hold their weapons. I set up some clay pigeons on a couple of cans for them to shoot at and they happily shot and shot and shot some more. I have no idea how many rounds they went through but I know the lead content on my parents yard has gone up drastically. Ms. K. even commented how sore her shoulder was at the end of the day due to the recoil of the BB gun. She is a bit of a drama queen.

We set out at noon on Saturday with our unique hunting party. The only two toting guns were me and my Dad. The Mrs. and Mr. T. came along and did a LOT of walking. My Mom and Ms. K. took care of the driving, Ms. K. made the comment that her job was to keep the driver happy so she couldn't be bothered with walking. With only two guns and a brisk wind the pheasants had the clear advantage but we managed to bag our limit by 4:30 Saturday afternoon.

Sunday greeted us with a nicer day and the advantage switched from the pheasants to the hunters and we quickly reach our daily limit by 1:45 Sunday afternoon.

It was a fun weekend and even though no bike riding was done and I got a pretty good workout (especially Sat) walking though the fields. I will try to post some pictures from the weekend in the next day or so.

Later

Smooth

2008-10-17T08:49:00.003-05:00

Is the best way to describe the new bike. I took it out for a quick ride after work last night again and continue to be amazed at the difference from my old ride. It's a much smoother ride, it corners much better and amazingly I seem to be able to climb a bit better on it. Don't get me wrong a great hill climber I am not but it does seem better on the new bike. I'm really hoping for a window of nice weather, on a free weekend, to get a longer ride in before the weather really gets crappy (winter) outside. The opportunities for riding after work are getting shorter and shorter with it getting dark so quickly, but I will grab each chance I get as I'm already dreading the thought of the trainer.

Not much else going on except I'm off this afternoon to head to my parents place for the great South Dakota tradition of pheasant hunting. Mr. T. and Ms. K. are excited as BB gun lessons and target practice will commence in the morning before the real hunting starts. I also plan to get some work done on my deer stand for the upcoming deer season.

Have a great, safe weekend no matter if your on the bike or in the field.

Later

I couldn't stop myself

2008-10-13T20:11:00.003-05:00

A new bike has a powerful pull. It was chilly, damp and windy today but she kept calling to me from the garage and finally I suited up and headed out. With the 20mph west wind it was a bit brisk, but it is October so good riding days are going to get harder to find. It's always a real sign that seasons are changing when you have to dig out the toe covers, insulated leg warmers and insulated jacket. I'm very glad I went out though so I could get a real good feel for the new bike, with my pedals and saddle on board.

In other news I just watched the Mrs. rip a tooth out of Ms K. head. When my little girl gets a loose tooth she wants it out the SAME day and tears and blood are soon to follow. She is tougher than me, in between popping roots on the tooth to come out, she runs over to show me how much looser it is and that is the point I about lose it myself. So anyways the tooth fairy will be stopping by our house tonight.

Later

New Bike

2008-10-12T16:23:00.006-05:00

She has been hanging in Bike Plus for 2 years just waiting for me. So finally here are some pictures of the new bike. It is a 2006 Giant OCR Limited, with a grand total of 10 miles on it (by me on the first test ride). Upgrades that have been made already, I put my Fizik saddle and Crank Brothers pedals from my old ride onto the new bike. Please don't bust my chops about the non matching bottle cages, they will be replaced with carbon fiber matching cages soon.

I didn't get a ride in today as we were busy with church and then a benefit 10k bike ride in Vermillion. The whole family rode, the Mrs. and Ms K. riding 5k and Mr. T. and me riding the 10k. Mr. T. conquered Winery Hill without walking his bike, I was very proud of him. The Biking Brady clan will be arriving soon for a relaxing evening (we lock the kids in the basement).

Later

WOO HOO, YIPPEE!!

2008-10-11T17:06:00.005-05:00

I just sold my old bike, my trusted, true and tested Trek 1500 is on it's way to it's new home. Yes, I was a little choked up to see it go BUT I also picked up my new ride from the bike shop this afternoon so the timing was perfect. I promise some pictures of the new ride shortly. Please think positive thoughts that it stays dry tomorrow I really want to go for a good spin on the new bike.

Later

New Ride

2008-10-09T19:48:00.001-05:00

Gonna happen, Gonna happen soon. Updates and pictures are forthcoming.

Later

Today sucks!

2008-10-07T22:43:00.003-05:00

I was a pallbearer at my Grandmother's funeral today.
I'm TIRED, emotionally and physically.
It's only Wed tomorrow and I'm supposed to go back to work, may-be I will be sick (sick of work).
The country is going bankrupt and taking all of us with it.
My elbow hurts.
Selling a bike on-line is a pain in the ass (didn't know there were so many 120lbs tire kickers).

I think, no, I know it's time for a bike ride.

Later

B 2 B and other stuff

2008-10-04T21:58:00.003-05:00

Bunyan's 2 Bob's part II Fall addition was the ride for today. It was a bit windy of course but this is South Dakota so it was typical day. We met at Bunyan's around 10:15 or so and riders started rolling in for the before hand beverages and conversation. For this edition of Bunyan's to Bob's I selected the gravel / mountain bike route, and I have this comment about that route. "NEVER AGAIN"! I will be more than happy to ride from Vermillion to New Castle but the gravel from New Castle to Martinsburg is basically a cyclists torture chamber. Hill after hill with gravel pits of loose gravel, more hills, lots of washboard, hills, fire, death and hills, ok you get the point. I'm quite sure I will ride Bunyan's to Bob's many more times, but I will stay where I belong on the hard top, smiling as I glide down hills at 35 mph.

In other news I mentioned a post or two ago I got the phone call that no one wants. I got the 2nd phone call at 6:30 this morning. My Grandma passed away right around mid-night Friday night. I didn't mention it at all today to any other rollers as I didn't want to bring down anybody else's ride and I didn't know if I could talk about it anyway. Yeah, some people will say, should have you really ridden today and my answer to that is YES. I know my Grandma and the last thing she would have wanted was me sitting at home feeling sorry for myself and as you all know sometimes bike therapy is the best therapy. The funeral is Tuesday so I will be off the grid for the next 5 days or so.

Later

Bike for Sale??

2008-10-03T19:33:00.003-05:00

I'm considering selling my Trek 1500 road bike. If you know anyone that is interested in a well cared for road bike send them my way. Bike has just had new rubber (front & back), new rim (back), new chain, new brakes, new bar tape and the rear cassette was gone through. Areo bars and computer are possibly included if the price is right. If I can get it sold for a good enough price I will be looking for a new ride in the near future.

Later

One of those phone calls

2008-10-02T19:13:00.002-05:00

I received one of those phone calls tonight that everyone hates to get. It was my Dad telling me that my 96 year old Grandma has gone into heart failure. She was alert this morning but has not been responsive since. The Dr. says there is not much they can do but except keep her comfortable and wait too see what happens. 96 years is a good long run but your never ready to get one of those phone calls.

Later

Options

2008-09-29T09:00:00.001-05:00

OK, Ive been kickin a few options around for the upcoming cycling season (Oct 08- Oct 09). I'm looking for some input, additional ideas and also wondering if anyone else is IN. To put this in perspective I will turn 40 in August of 2009 so for my mid-life crisis I've decided to ride my bike. My wonderful Mrs. has given me the blessing for a busy year on the bike and she even came up with one of these ideas herself.

Here we go:

1. Gut-Check 2009. I'm planning on it, I have the sag worked out, I'm going to train like it's my last attempt (it is per the Mrs.). Problem is right now the dates for Gut-Check happen to land on the same day as the MS 150. As much as I want to complete Gut-Check if these dates continue to conflict I will be riding the MS 150. The MS ride means too much to me go let go of. I REALLY hope this conflict is resolved so I can attend both rides.

2. The Year Rounder. If you haven't heard of this it is at least 1 century ride every month for one calendar year. The rules are very simple 100 miles in a 24 hour time period each month for a year, oh by the way it HAS to be outside. I'm thinking this would be great training for Gut-Check and a really fun challenge. I can foresee 20 laps on the mountain bike around Vermillion in the middle of February.

3. 40 for 40. This is the Mrs. idea. It works like this: 40 miles a day for 40 days in a row (get the idea, I'm turning 40). Here again another great idea for Gut-Check training but a big time eating monster and there for sure will be a few rough weather days. It pretty much means not leaving Vermillion for 40 days and if I do the bike comes along.

4. All of the above. This is what I would like to shoot for, BUT it requires Gut-Check dates to be changed for next year.

Now that I've explained (I haven't commited yet) all my ideas for torturing my soon to be 40 year old body I have one question for you.

ARE YOU IN???

If not for all options which one?

and

Have I gone totally off the deep end??

(Late update the dates for Gut-Check have been changed!)

B 2 B preparations

2008-09-27T18:39:00.007-05:00

I took my mountain bike to the LBS today for a little tune up (tires, brakes, chain and cables) before the fall addition of Bunyan's to Bob's. That's right my mountain bike the rarely seen creature that resides in my garage that usually only comes out in times of extreme cold and crappy weather (December - February). I'm going to attempt the Bunyan's to Bob's fall addition on my mountain bike. The Mrs. thinks I have a death wish as she use to traverse those back country Nebraska roads on a regular basis. I'm definitely not a technical rider but I think I'm good enough to handle a loose/soft gravel road. Time will tell, if I show up at Bob's bleeding and minus skin on important parts, I was wrong. I have been on some of those roads before and one thing I know, it will be worth taking your time and very worth taking your camera. We went on a 45 mile road ride today around Alcester and the fall colors are really starting to show so by next weekend the Nebraska hills should be very pretty. If your reading this you should be at the B 2 B ride next weekend just a few things to look forward to:
- BOMBERS. if you have to ask, you need to show up to have one
- BEEF, a side of it delivered on a bun
- BEER, you can't just drink Bombers
- BARS, two of the most classic bars in the area
- BIKES, how else you gonna get there
- BIKE RIDERS, who else would you sooner hang out with
- BEAUTY, it's fall, the leaves are changing color, the river hills of SD and NE

-BE THERE!!!!

TGIF

2008-09-26T08:30:00.000-05:00

A little late for talk like a Pirate Day but here you go.

Pirate Pick-up lines:

I must be huntin' treasure, 'cause I'm diggin' yer chest.

You're just the tasty wench I've been keeping me eye out for!

Hey, sexy -- how about a Jolly Rogering?

Ya certainly put the shiver in me timber.

See this hook? Variable speed with five alternate attachments, Baby.

WOW! I bet we could fit SIXteen men on that chest!

Me skull and crossbones arn't the only thing I plan on raisin' tonight.

Do ya' mind if the parrot watches?

Nice poop deck on ya, lassie. Care fer a swabbin'?

Avast, me pretty! Strike your panties and prepare to be boarded.

So you're the new cabin boy, eh?

Do you have the latest copy of Windows XP with cracked product activation? (software pirates only)

Yo, ho! Bottle of rum?

Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrre you free on Saturday?

Is there an 'X' on the seat of your pants? Because it appears that there's wond'rous booty buried underneath!

Difficult Decisions

2008-09-24T09:30:00.002-05:00

This is a difficult decision for me, on one hand you have bikes and beer (2 of my favorite things) on the other hand a tradition I have not missed in 39 years. Yep, that's right I have not not been home (my parents place) for opening day of pheasant season for 39 years. I would really like to take part in Schnoctobeerfest it sounds like a great ride and I think it would be a lot of fun. It's always a good time to meet with old friends, make new friends, get a little riding in and of course sample a few beverages. Then there is opening day of pheasant season, if your not from the heart of pheasant country, small town South Dakota you probably don't understand, but it is really almost a holiday all its own. People come back from all around the county, classmates I haven't seen or heard from since last opening day make the pilgrimage back to tromp through the countryside to try to bag a few birds. When it comes down to it its not about the birds but about the tradition of getting together with family and friends. Anyway with that all being said I will be once again head into the fields to do a bit of hunting that weekend. The main reason for me is that I don't know how many more of these weekends are still in the future for me. My Dad is getting up there in age to be trouncing around the fields so I feel I should take every advantage of each opportunity I get to do this tradition with him. Mr. T. would also be pretty upset if he didn't have to chance to go after a few pheasants with his sawed off broom stick. A 7 year old is a little young to tote a shotgun so he walks along with his broom stick, a hunter in training. To all those heading to Schnoctobeerfest have fun, ride safe and have a beer or two for me.

Later

Support your candidate

2008-09-18T09:19:00.000-05:00

There are few months until the election, an election that will decide

the next President of the United States. The person elected will be

the president of all Americans--not just the Democrats or the Republicans.

To show our solidarity as Americans, let's all get together and show each other

our support for the candidate of our choice. It's time that we come together--

Democrats and Republicans alike.

If you support the policies and character of Obama, please drive with your

headlights on during the day.

If you support McCain, please drive with your headlights off at night.

Thank you for your participation.

Raptor Fight

2008-09-17T07:31:00.000-05:00

1 minute, 25 seconds

Created by Bunk Beds Pedia

Margarita Ride 2008

2008-09-14T12:09:00.004-05:00

Another Margarita Ride is completed and I believe overall it went off pretty well.

The weather was a bit humid (aka rain) but the temperatures were pleasant and the wind was a non factor. I enjoyed the 45 mile loop with the company of Bald-n-Surly we rode at steady but not killer pace and didn't encounter any problems except for me flatting just as we rolled back into Vermillion The sharp pink chip seal claimed its share of tires on the day. Numbers were a little off of last year due to a competing ride in Sioux Falls (which is changing its date for next year), but we still ended up with 130 rollers or so. Not bad considering the soggy conditions.

After the ride a few friends and bloggers got together and enjoyed a couple (dozen) or so adult beverages. Stories were told and ideas for improving the ride for next year were tossed around. It was a fun day and I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as I did.

A special thanks to all who help pull this thing off, just to name a few: Biking Brady (the main man), Mrs Biking Brady, Cycling Cathy, Eric M, Hammer (great shirt design) and all the volunteers and support people. Special thanks to Mrs. CDV and my kids for running two rest stops and laying out the spread of food for the after ride gathering. Your the best. I'm sure I've forgotten a person or two, but you get the idea, a ride like this does not just happen it takes a lot of work and cooperation.

Later

Yikes

2008-09-11T08:16:00.004-05:00

Here is another good reason to wear your helmet on every ride. The only person I know prepared to run into one of those is Cycling Cathy, toting her bear spray.

The Republican Ticket

2008-09-09T18:55:00.002-05:00

Weekend Recap

2008-09-08T14:21:00.004-05:00

We had a pretty busy weekend even though there was no bike riding involved.

Saturday we took off to the big town of Volga, SD to visit the Schade Vineyards. They were having their yearly wine festival weekend. We had a lot of fun picking grapes, stomping grapes (my feet are still a little purple) and tasting different wines. We returned home with 2 1/2 cases of wine in the car, I'm glad we didn't get stopped by the police on the way home I would still be in jail on boot-legging charges. If you get the chance stop by there sometime, they are great people (they are my aunt and uncle) and it's really interesting to see the whole wine making process in action.

Sunday was spent turning our house into a home gym. I've mentioned before that I'm really trying to get back into doing some weight lifting on a regular basis. This hasn't been going as well as I would like and part of the reason is I HATE free weights. I don't like the hassle of switching out weights and I don't have a bench. I cured this problem by picking up one of these. Let me tell you putting one of these contraptions together is a workout in itself. It took me and the Mrs. a total of 12 hours (6 hours with the 2 of us) to get everything up and running. I'm looking forward to getting to work on it.

I now have: 1 stationary bike, 1 treadmill, 1 weight machine and 1 bike on the trainer once the weather gets bad. If you would like I am selling memberships to the Ride Vermillion Gym for only $25.00 per month. Bring your own towel.

Later

Coming Back

2008-09-08T13:22:00.004-05:00

Possibility of Lance riding 2009 Tour de France you can read about it here.

TGIF

2008-09-05T11:39:00.002-05:00

Been a slow crappy week as far as riding goes so I got nothing except a little late Summer Olympic humour. Here ya go.

Here are the top nine comments made by NBC sports commentators so far during the Summer Olympics that they would like to take back:
1. Weightlifting commentator: 'This is Gregoriava from Bulgaria. I saw her snatch this morning during her warm up and it was amazing.'
2. Dressage commentator: 'This is really a lovely horse and I speak from personal experience since I once mounted her mother.'
3. Paul Hamm, Gymnast: 'I owe a lot to my parents, especially my mother and father.'
4. Boxing Analyst: 'Sure there have been injuries, and even some deaths in boxing, but none of them really that serious.'
5. Softball announcer: 'If history repeats itself, I should think we can expect the same thing again.'
6. Basketball analyst: 'He dribbles a lot and the opposition doesn't like it. In fact you can see it all over their faces.'
7. At the rowing medal ceremony: 'Ah, isn't that nice, the wife of the IOC president is hugging the cox of the British crew.'
8. Soccer commentator: 'Julian Dicks is everywhere. It's like they've got eleven Dicks on the field.'
9. Tennis commentator: 'One of the reasons Andy is playing so well is that, before the final round, his wife takes out his balls and kisses them... Oh my God, what have I just said?

10 Years

2008-08-29T06:37:00.000-05:00

Today the Mrs. and I have been married for 10 years. It really doesn't seem like that long, but time does fly. I'm one lucky dude to have her and am looking forward to spending the rest of my life with her as well.

Just to give you an idea of how lucky I am here is a list of my anniversary presents from the Mrs.
- Pearl Izumi Thermal arm warmers,
- Pearl Izumi Thermal leg warmers,
- Pearl Izumi Attack bib shorts,
- Carmichael Training DVD; AND
- a Gut-Check training aid which she spent hours on, making herself.

The Gut-Check training aid is really cool, it has places to put: average speed, hours ridden, miles ridden and time spent lifting weights. Each month has a motivational message from people like, Lance Armstrong, Greg LeMond and Vince Lombardi. It should be a real help to keep me on the right track for training. Not to mentioned this last week if I haven't been on the bike she will ask me very kindly "aren't you going to ride today", which is all I need to hear to get my butt in the saddle.

Did I mention how lucky I am to be married to her.

A use for that worn out chain.

2008-08-27T14:30:00.007-05:00

Now if I could just come up for a use for my punctured tubes and worn out tires.

TGIF and it's my birthday

2008-08-22T09:13:00.003-05:00

and here is my cake!

Not really my cake but I kinda like the idea.

Goals: I want to ride 50 miles

2008-08-20T17:45:00.003-05:00

So the kids are back to school, one of the things they take home from school everyday is their "agenda". This is a book where they keep a small journal of each day at school and also provides the parents and teachers way to get messages/info back and forth. I was checking out Mr. T's agenda after school today and on one of the 1st few pages it has a place for goals and things they would like to do. His one thing he would like to do is "ride my bike 50 miles". I'm a very proud and happy Dad after reading that and can't wait to take him on his first 50 mile ride in a few years.

Unfortunately another goal was getting Mom and Dad to get him a dog. That one, um, I'm not so sure or excited about.

Later

Congrats!!!

2008-08-17T17:25:00.002-05:00

To all who road and to all those who finished the 2008 Gut-Check. You can check out the results here. Hopefully my name is on that list next year.

Later

Game On

2008-08-14T18:41:00.004-05:00

Gut-Check 2009

I really feel like shit (sorry Mayor I don't want to mess up my G rating) but I REALLY wish I was on my way to the South Dakota/Wyoming border about now. I didn't think it would bother me this much but it consumed my thoughts most of the day.

I have decided, after a discussion with the Mrs. last night that Gut-Check 2009 is on the schedule. I feel better and am much more focused when I have a goal in sight. It beat me last year and that still bothers me. The worst part is when I stopped last year my legs felt good, my rear end felt good but it was my ARM that failed me. My left arm had went totally numb, and honestly a year later I still don't have all the feeling back in my left hand pinky.

Training for next year starts next Tues. Why next Tues you say, it's when the kids go back to school. This frees up my lunch hour for training time. Yeah I know it's only an hour but it really makes a difference. I spend 45 minutes on my (recumbent) stationary bike Mon., Wed., & Fri. and lift weights for 45 minutes on Tues. and Thurs. This is on top of my normal riding in the evenings and weekends. Hopefully it will keep/improve my legs over the off season and get my upper body strong enough to keep feeling in my left arm.

On top of that weight, at my thinnest roadie wiener weight I weighed in at 160 lbs right now I'm at 185ish or so. This will change, honestly I really had to work/starve myself to get to 160 and did not feel strong at all at that weight. My goal is 170 to 175 this is when I feel my best and strongest so that is my goal. Its only 10 to 15 lbs which shouldn't be much of a problem with a proper training regiment.

Last but not least I feel I have the support of my family to defeat this beast of a ride. The Mrs. is on board, (she's even willing to sag my sorry butt again), the kiddos are aware that Dad will be starting to ride and lift more, with that kinda support how can I not give it another go (do I have a great and supporting wife and kids or what). There will be times it will be tough and a strain, but then again is there anything that's worth achieving that's not.

366 DAYS AND COUNTING!!!

Lack of Posts and Lack of Rides

2008-08-10T17:51:00.004-05:00

I must be going through a post MS ride funk. My bike is still in the same position as when I arrived home from Sioux Falls last Sunday. I really can't explain why but know things WILL change this week. I've been fighting some allergy type stuff which has been causing my eyes to water, itch and swell up. I'm going to try to make sure I pop a Zyrtec every morning to try to remedy this issue.

Ms K's birthday party was also a big time grabber this last week. I started getting the yard ready Thursday night and spent 3 hours mowing and trimming. Friday the whole family went to the Clay County Fair (the Vermillion, SD one) and ended up the night at the demo derby. I'm thinking all this time outside in the dirt and dust did not help my eye issues. Saturday was the big birthday party. Pretty much the whole day was spent getting ready.

The birthday party was a lot of fun, for the kids as well as the adults. We had a total of 28 people at the party and 16 of them were kids. Games were played, food was ate and beverages were consumed, all in all a fun night. Our guests departed around 10:45 or so and then it was clean up time. Neither me or the Mrs really wanted to take on that task but we figured just suck it up and get it done and that way we wouldn't have to worry about it on Sunday. We finally got the house picked up, dishes washed, fire pit put out and kids to bed around midnight.

Today was spent pretty much recovering from yesterday, in fact I think I'm ready for my 4th nap of the day. Between naps I watched the Olympics including the womans road cycling race. Hey, it's the closest thing to riding I've done all week.

Later

Pedal the Plains; Day 2

2008-08-03T17:32:00.003-05:00

Humid, Hot and never a true tailwind were the weather conditions for day 2. We departed Vermillion and formed a Lane Hogs / FAB pace line, and what a pace line is was. The Big Blue Tandem in the lead, followed by Snakebite on the Big Dummy drafting behind those two monster bikes is like following 2 semi's down the interstate. The rest of the pace line included: The President, Bald N Surly, The Owner and myself, not to mention 4 or 5 others which do not have blogs to link to. It was a lively pace, about 20 mph +/- depending on hills. We held this group together for about the first 20 miles or so. After this the group split up into several smaller groups for the remainder of the ride. It was hot, it was humid and we really never ended up with true tailwind. I rolled into Sioux Falls about 12:20 glad to beat the worst of the heat.

So that wraps up my 4th MS ride. I had a great time and had the opportunity to ride with a lot of blogger friends. I even had the chance to ride an hour or so with the Mayor, I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.

As always it was fun to be out on the road, but the greater cause is much more important and hopefully by us all showing up and doing our part we can put and end to MS and then find the next cause to ride for.

Later

Pedal the Plains; Day 1

2008-08-02T21:08:00.002-05:00

Can you say WIND. That pretty much sums it up. I rolled out of Sioux Falls shortly after 7 and covered the first 20 miles in just a tad over an hour. That would be the fastest 20 miles of the day. The rest of the day was spent battling a very stiff head wind. I rolled into Vermillion about 12:45 and considered the century route. The cold beer and shade quickly made my decision easy. Could I have rode the last 25 ? Sure I could have, did I really want to face that wind for another hour, nope. All in all day 1 was fun and it was great to visit with all the riders and bloggers. I'm looking forward to a nice tailwind tomorrow.

Later

Find a Penny pick it up...

2008-07-31T14:36:00.003-05:00

Ok, I'm walking down the street and see a penny lying in my path, I stop pick it up and put it in my pocket. The person walking with me is dumb founded exclaiming "I can't believe you stopped to pick up a penny". My reply is I can't believe your to lazy and out of shape to bend over and pick something up.

So the question for the day is; Would you? If not for a penny what is the lowest denomination of change you would stop for?

This is why we ride

2008-07-29T12:13:00.003-05:00

Hopefully my last post about my experiences in the Heart Hospital for a while.

After riding to the hospital from Vermillion on Saturday, I quickly hit my Dad's motel room for a much needed shower. I threw on some street cloths, the shirt I happened to grab was my MS 150 T-shirt from last year. I headed up to see my Mom and reached the elevator doors about the same time a lady was rolling up to them in her wheel chair. I held the doors for her well she boarded the elevator. Once aboard I noticed her checking me out. Yeah, I know I'm a handsome fella but she wasn't actually checking me out but my T-shirt. She asked me if I had ridden the MS ride before and I told her I was looking forward to my 4th year of riding it next weekend. She gave me a smile and said "Thank-you for everything you have done for me."

That is why I ride.

Tagged

2008-07-27T17:31:00.003-05:00

If you could have any one — and only one — bike in the world, what would it be?

It would be custom built, made just for me by some little bike geek in Italy. It would cost around $15,000.00 dollars and would have a nitro option for beating Biking Brady up hills.

Do you already have that coveted dream bike? If so, is it everything you hoped it would be? If not, are you working toward getting it? If you’re not working toward getting it, why not?

I'm dreaming about it, and that's about as close as I will get.

If you had to choose one — and only one — bike route to do every day for the rest of your life, what would it be, and why?

Meckling Loop, I'm a simple man with simple pleasures. It's close to home, it's a perfect distance (30 miles) and I usually ride it with great company.

Do you ride both road and mountain bikes? If both, which do you prefer and why? If only one or the other, why are you so narrow-minded?

Both, I prefer road, no real reason, just like the feel of the open road, with no distance or time limits.

Have you ever ridden a recumbent? If so, why? If not, describe the circumstances under which you would ride a recumbent.

No, Never had the chance, I would jump on the first one available, I will try anything once.

Have you ever raced a triathlon?

Nope.

Suppose you were forced to either give up ice cream or bicycles for the rest of your life. Which would you give up, and why?

No question here, ice cream is gone. I like it but would never give up my bike for one food.

What is a question you think this questionnaire should have asked, but has not? Also, answer it.

Why is tagging someone legal? Because there is not such thing as Blogger Police.

What is my favorite thing about cycling?

Freedom

Now, tag three biking bloggers. List them below.

Hammer

Cycle SD

Tez

If anybody else wants to play...consider yourself tagged as well.

Blogging from the Heart Hospital

2008-07-26T20:45:00.002-05:00

This post is being brought to you courtesy of the public Internet terminal at the Heart Hospital.

I took off this morning for my ride up to Sioux Falls to spend the weekend at the hospital with my Mom, who by the way is doing EXCELLENT. I met up with Biking Brady and Cindy L. who were on there way to the Tri-County Tour ride. This worked out great as I had some company for the first 25 miles or so. It was a nice morning for a ride, but as we headed out we noticed a few rain/storm clouds brewing. After I split from my two fellow rollers, I picked up my speed to try to get ahead of the rain clouds, it didn't work. I rode in a steady rain for a little over an hour. When I got to Lennox I stopped to ring out my socks and gloves as the rain had pretty much stopped. I rolled out of Lennox and about 4 miles out of town I flatted. I quickly fixed my flat and continued on. The rest of the ride was uneventful until I was a 1/2 mile from the hospital when guess what, I flatted again. When I fixed the first flat I had noticed a pretty good gash in the sidewall, but since I only had a tube with me I didn't have much of a choice but to cross my fingers and soldier on. Tomorrow I will be putting on a whole new tire, I'm glad it held up as far as it did. I'm pretty happy about the ride even with the 2 flats and getting soaked, 59 miles at a 16.8 mph average.

Later

Bike Therapy

2008-07-25T20:35:00.002-05:00

I'm happy to report to my 5 or so readers my Mom is doing great. Considering I was sitting in a private room with a Chaplin Wed. afternoon and the surgeon said she might not wake up, she is now walking up and down the halls of the Heart Hospital. The staff at that place is amazing, I have never experienced a hospital with that level caring and skill. Now that I'm confident my Mom is out of the woods I need to release a bit of pent up stress from the last couple of days. I think a RIDE is in order. The plan is to meet up with Biking Brady and Cindy L. about 6:30 tomorrow morning, they are riding to a group ride by Beresford. I will then continue on to Sioux Falls to spend the weekend at the hospital with my Mom. If any Sioux Falls bloggers read this I will be approching Sioux Falls via Lennox then onto Tea and would welcome any rollers along the way. Hopefully a good 60 mile ride will help me put my emotions and stress back in check after this rough couple of days.

Later

To Tired and Wired to Sleep

2008-07-24T22:19:00.002-05:00

Have you ever been to tired and to wired to sleep, I'm there. Out of the past 48 hours I've been up 45 hours. My Mom looks like she is going to be OK, but there are big reasons I've been up this long and I'm not prepared to discuss them on this forum now, if ever. Thank-you to Mr. and Mrs. Biking Brady to for listening to me ramble when I really need someone to talk to, you are true friends.

Later

P.S. Dudes and Dudettees,

By the looks of things I might not get many miles in between now and the MS 150 so be kind and when you pass me give me a push!

Busy Saturday and Week to Come

2008-07-19T22:20:00.004-05:00

Saturday was a great but busy day. It started out by meeting Mr & Mrs Biking Brady for a ride at 7:30 A.M. It was a nice morning with little wind and mild temps the only problem was the humidity, it was about 90 to 95%. We took off on our intended 50 or so mile route right on time and met a couple of other rollers (Kathy R and Dave H) in Elk Point. It was a nice ride and good company, although with the humidity a bit damp and sweaty. By the way if Mr & Mrs Biking Brady advertise a 14 to 16 mph ride plan on 17 to 19 mph ride. Not a problem, but they are getting scary good on that tandem. Look out for them on Gut-Check next year! After 54.5 miles I arrived back home just in time to cool down nicely, shower and join the family for lunch.

After a post lunch nap, the Mrs was off to a wedding and the kiddos and I were on our own for the afternoon. 1st plan of action was KILL GOPHERS, the little buggers are really making a mess out of our yard. We made a trip to Campbell's Supply and picked up a live trap and poison grain. I know not very nice but this is war damn it. After making our yard a glowing toxic waste dump we set the live trap in the middle of the garden with a carrot for bait. At 8:00 P.M. this evening we had our first gopher in the live trap. I won't go into details but I don't believe in catch and release when it comes to gophers.

After the gopher quest I moved onto some bike maintenance/upgrades. I removed all the wrap from the bars and put some gel inserts on the bars and then some gel wrap over the gel inserts. No I'm not wrapping the bars in pillows but trying to make things a bit more comfortable on my hands. Last year on Gut-Check I did some damage to my left hand/nerves and OK I'll be honest its still not good. I have use of my pinky finger but if I ride anything over 30 miles I still loose all feeling and use of that finger for several hours. Even taking a month off the bike has not given it back. Any ways I don't know if it will help but I have some of the softest bars available right now and it looks much better that the pipe insulation I had taped on it before.

The up coming week will be a bit of a stressful week. I have a very busy Monday and Tuesday at work and to top it all off I have to be at the Heart Hospital Wed. at 5:00 A.M. for my Mom's heart valve replacement surgery. This is going to be a difficult day and I'm dreading every minute of it. I know these people know what they are doing, but damn it, its my MOM. Nuff said except I would appreciate any prayers or positive thoughts anyone wants to throw her way that day.

Later

I wish I could vote on this!

2008-07-18T11:31:00.001-05:00

A fitting legacy for George W. Bush.

Only 185 days left and he is done.

Words of Wisdom

2008-07-13T20:50:00.002-05:00

Never start a plumbing project at 6:00 P.M. on a Sunday evening, instead go on a 20 to 30 mile ride with friends (I turned them down for plumbing).

All plumbing supply/hardware stores are closed after 6:00 P.M. in Vermillion.

Washing dishes in the bath-tub sucks. Ok, the Mrs. didn't use the tub but the laundry room sink isn't much better.

Always have a full 1/2 gallon of some sort of whiskey available to celebrate failed projects(screwed this up to).

So, I've now screwed up 2 rides as I will be fixing tomorrow, after work, instead of riding.

@$#&

Later

Flying through Rapid City

2008-07-09T11:35:00.006-05:00

In my last post I described my Indy driving through Rapid City to get my daughter to the ER and I realized I forgot to mention something that caught my eye even though I was in total panic mode. It looked something like this.

The one I saw actually looked even more like two complete frames welded on top of one another complete with the 2nd set of bars. I'm thinking it might not be the best set up to ride in high cross winds.

Fireworks, Weddings & Stitches

2008-07-06T22:23:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone had a great 4th of July here is my recap of the weekend.

We left Vermillion Thursday about 2:30 P.M. to head out to Rapid City for my brother in laws wedding. We made our way to my parents farm about 125 miles from Vermillion, there we stopped had dinner and spent the evening with my parents. We had picked up some fireworks which we had a good time blowing up Thursday evening.

We loaded up Friday morning and were on the road by 7:30 A.M. We took time to do the Bad Lands loop along the way to the Hills. We stopped and did a little hiking and site seeing in the Bad Lands, the kids really enjoyed it and the weather was great.

We continued on to Rapid where we had rooms at the Ramkota (can you say water park). We checked in and soon found out the air conditioner in our room was pretty much crap. We tried it on low, we tired it on high, we called maintenance. Needless to say the maintenance crew at the Ramkota has an 8th grade education, combined. They made two trips out and said "Oh it should be fine it's just a little froze up, just run it on low". After the 2nd maintenance moron said that I took matters into my own hands and yanked out the clogged air filter and threw it to the side. It ran better, not good, but at least we weren't sweating. The next day I went to the front desk and told them, new room, new air conditioner or a free stay. We finally ended up with a new room.

Any way from Friday night until Sunday about 10:30A.M. or so was filled with wedding festivities. It was fun but busy, as Mr. T and Ms. K were ring bearer and flower girl, and the Mrs had to sing in the ceremony so we got to partake of all the picture fun, rehearsal and so on. We had a great time and the whole wedding portion of the weekend was really fun. I'm fortunate, as I really enjoy spending time with my in-laws and extended family.

Before we made the 6 hour trip back to Vermillion we decided to try to take in one quick site seeing trip in the Hills. We collectively decided to head to the Black Hills cavern (cave), this is where the weekend got really exciting.

We started our tour of the cave, it was nice, a small tour group, a cool (temp wise) cave on a hot day, what could go wrong. A little over 1/2 way through the tour after we had just passed a sign saying "You are now 50 feet underground" Ms K. took a header down a steep flight of steps. It was dark and slippery, she was excited to be in the cave and also a bit tired from the busy weekend, were not sure exactly what happened but anyway she went down HARD. The Mrs. was the first to her, Ms. K popped right back up a little shook but talking and walking, we thought a simple spill, like I said it was DARK. The Mrs. picked up Ms K. and kept walking asking her where it hurt. Ms. K responded my head, at this point I asked the guide for his flashlight and was going to give the princess a once over. It didn't take long as blood was now gushing down the side of her precious face. I told the guide get us out of here the quickest way possible. He abandoned the rest of the tour group, yelling at them to stay put and we were on our way to the surface. The Mrs in the lead carrying Ms K and me and Mr. T trailing. After a couple flights of steps the Mrs realized caring a 45 to 50 lbs 6 year old out of a cave was not going to be easy and handed her to me. The race was on. If you ever want a good workout walk 50 feet or so underground and watch one of the most important people in your life get hurt. We reached the surface and finally got to get a good look at her injury, it was about a 2 inch cut in her forehead, down to the bone.

I applied pressure while the Mrs and Mr. T went for the car, while applying pressure the cave personal gave me directions to the hospital. We did the switch at this point the Mrs in back with the wounded and me driving with Mr. T. on the lookout for the blue hospital signs. Anyone who wants to doubt how fast a Prius can roll should have been a witness to the next part of this saga. I was running 80 to 90 mph on the straight a ways and 75 in the 35 mph zones. I ran every stop light. Why the hurry you say for just a 2 inch cut in the head. When we got in the car and were no more than 3 miles down the rode and she passed out for the first time, we got her woke, then she threw up. At one point I tossed my phone to Mr. T and told him to dial 911, Ms K heard this and screamed "I don't want to go in an ambulance". She passed out a 2nd time, we were all REALLY, REALLY scared.

We finally got to the hospital where they took her vitals and checked her out, the passing out and vomit were due to her going into a mild shock. She ended up with 3 to 4 internal stitches, I'm not sure of that amount as I had to sit down a bit myself because at that point I was about to pass out, and 7 external stitches.

She will be Ok, THANK GOD. There is NOTHING worse than seeing one of your children hurt. I'm still shook and I know the Mrs is as well.

Hopefully anyone reading this had a calmer end to the weekend than we did.

Later

Traffic Control

2008-07-03T14:50:00.000-05:00

Warning - not just for Texans but anybody planning on a visit ! Zero tolerance speed camera With the Texas highway death toll continuing to increase, this will be the first year that Zero Tolerance Speed Cameras will be used. The new cameras look different from the normal cameras. I have included a photo so that you are familiar with them. Make sure you do not speed when approaching one Please take this warning seriously as you will not get a second chance.

Have a Happy 4th of July!!!

Later

Positive Thinking

2008-07-02T15:59:00.006-05:00

Everyone seems to like complaining about the current price of gas, well here are 10 positive things that come from $4.00 gas. Whining and complaining isn't going to help, not using it will.

Well Tuned Ride

2008-07-01T06:38:00.003-05:00

Ok, so I haven't had much of a chance to get out on my "new" bike. Had big plans for lots of miles last weekend when mother nature decided to throw a small hurricane at us. Finally got out for an easy 30 miles last night. There is nothing better than riding on a smooth road, on a still evening, on a well tuned up bike. My ride was so quiet and smooth I could hardly even tell I was on a bike, had one of those no chain kinda rides.

I have a pretty busy couple days ahead the rest of this week as tonight I have volunteered to fill in a coaching position at Mr. T's baseball game. Hopefully I can get a ride in on Wed. evening and then Thurs. its off the the Black Hills. No, I won't be riding the Big Mick, instead I will be attending my brother-in-laws wedding. Yeah ,I know its a wedding, but I'm looking forward to the trip and it should be a lot of fun.

Later

7000 mile check-up

2008-06-27T08:19:00.005-05:00

There comes a time in the life of every bike when it needs a little work. That time has come for my Trek 1500. Last Saturday while riding a century with friends, Mark P. noticed little wobble in my rear wheel. It wasn't enough for me to notice on the bike but after closer inspection my rear rim was cracked. Off the the LBS for me, I dropped my ride off and told Rich to give it the once over to see if anything else needed some attention. I ended up with new front and back brakes, a new chain, a straightening of my slightly bent derailleur and of course a new rear wheel. Hey what do you know I almost have a new bike again. Hopefully it's good for another 7000 miles or so now.

Big Oil Wins

2008-06-26T13:11:00.003-05:00

If this isn't enough to piss you off a little bit, well, then you might just be Dick Chaney. Only 4 flippin days profit is all it's going to cost them, just doesn't seem quite fair to me.

Wii Fit

2008-06-24T09:20:00.003-05:00

One of these showed up at our doorstep yesterday. The Mrs. and the kids hooked it all up and we were ready to play after the T-ball game last night. Aerobics, strength training, balance training and yoga are all included with your own virtual trainer. Was it fun? Oh Yeah! Was I a little stiff and sore this morning, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't. I tried some of the strength training, yoga and a couple balance games and apparently worked some muscle groups that cycling does not. Is it the silver bullet to weight loss and 6 pack abs, probably not but it is a whole lot better than sitting on the couch. Oh, I forgot to mention my Wii Fit age is 55, I guess I need a bit more training.

Century Saturday

2008-06-21T18:29:00.005-05:00

My first century of the year, it was really unplanned and a whole lot of fun.

I left Vermillion solo at 8:00 A.M. with plans to meet up with Cycling Cathy at Dalesburg church, a small church about 14 miles from Vermillion. This went according to our plans and Cycling Cathy and I arrived minutes a part and took off from there. Our plans were to ride towards Beresford and meet up with Mark P., Kwen S., Chad P. and Andy who were meeting in Beresford. Cycling Cathy and I rode and rode and next thing you know we are 5 miles from Beresford. We decided to stop at the top of a hill and wait for the other group. We didn't wait long as they were busy climbing said hill. We all departed for Vermillion which is where we had planned to have lunch and a pit stop.

We rolled into Vermillion and headed to the Coffee Shop Gallery where we meet up with Angie and Ed F. Ed's timing was off a bit today and he had ridden all the way from Burbank to Beresford and back without meeting us on the road. We ordered food and sat down for a nice lunch. We asked another customer at the cafe to take our picture, he took our picture and asked where we had been and where we were going. We told him our route and next thing you know he was running home to gear up and ride with us.

We rolled out of Vermillion minus Qwen S. but plus Angie and Ken (our new recruit) and headed to our next stop which was Gayville. At this point I mentioned to Cycling Cathy we just as well polish off a century. She was up for the idea so off our group went.

We got to Gayville and this is where Angie, Ken, and Ed F. (who easily bagged a big century+ day) decided they had had enough and headed back to Vermillion and Cycling Cathy and I plotted out how many miles we had to continue to complete our century before turning around and heading back to Vermillion. We were now down to Mark P., Chad P., Andy, Cycling Cathy and myself.

We rode 9 miles out of Gayville towards Yankton when Cycling Cathy and I turned around and headed back to Vermillion. Mark P., Andy and Chad P. headed onwards to Lewis and Clark campground where Mark P. and Andy would be camping overnight. Chad P. was going to ride them to their camp site and head back to Alcester to complete his 130+ mile ride.

Cycling Cathy and I headed back to Vermillion with thoughts of Summer Shandy running through our minds. We made it back to Vermillion and headed to my house where Charlie(Cycling Cathy's cool hubby) would be meeting us to give Cycling Cathy a ride back home, after an ice cold Summer Shandy of course.

I was a great ride with great company the whole way. We changed our routes and changed our plans often during the ride trying to adapt on the fly to wind and heat, which made for a fun interesting ride.

Cycling Cathy thanks for the company and your great attitude, I will ride a century with you any day of the week.

Later

TGIF

2008-06-20T08:56:00.003-05:00

I don't know about anyone else but I'm sure glad it's Friday. I always hate coming back to work after a week long vacation, it always seems like there is a weeks worth of work that needs to be done. I finally feel like I'm caught up at work, now its time to try to catch up on some biking.

I did get a nice 30 mile ride in Tues night and had good intentions of another 30 last night. The 30 miler last night quickly became somewhere around a 12 to 14 mile ride. I took off about 4:30 P.M. and noticed a few rain clouds in the west. Not enough to worry me, a little rain has never bothered me while riding. Once I was about 5 miles out the little rain became a lot. I kept riding though the temp was nice, there was no wind and I couldn't get any wetter. I reached Mulberry Point outside of Vermillion and rode back in the rain the whole way. I had intentions to ride out to Clay County park and just casually ride around Vermillion but then the lightening started. I don't mind riding in the rain but riding in lightening is not my idea of good safe fun. So I bagged the rest of my ride.

Anyways I'm planning on doing some riding tomorrow the route is still a little up in the air but I plan to meet up with some other local rollers and hope to get around 60 miles or so in.

Have a good weekend!

Later

Disney 2008 a few pictures.

2008-06-15T16:04:00.015-05:00

My two favorite girls.

The Bubble girls at the wedding.

Indiana Jones stunt show.

Mr. T. being Goofy

Story Time

Ms. K. getting Stitch's autograph.

Mr. T. & Ms K. in front of the castle.

Don't feed the gators!

The gators were actually scared of this group.

Viking invaders in Norway in Epcot.

I enjoyed the wine at dinner

Goofy showed up a breakfast.

I'm Baaack!!

2008-06-12T21:21:00.003-05:00

It's been a while, but I've returned from Disney in one piece, which I hope the same for the TDK riders as I've hear it has been a challenging week. Any way I will post more on Disney later as I'm still to tired to make this to long I will give a brief summary of our trip back, THE TRIP FROM HELL!!

We left Disney at 12:10 P.M. eastern time and should have been home and in bed by 10:30 or 11:00 P.M. central time, NOT. The trip from Orlando to Dallas was not a problem, everything on time and in order that is when everything went down hill.

We arrived in Dallas on time and were supposed to leave Dallas for Omaha at 5:30 P.M. and arrive in Omaha about 7:30 P.M. Well we were delayed until 6:40 P.M. for some reason but got in the air about 6:50 or so. We got in made right? NOT. We got to Omaha on time but T-storms were raging through out the area. We circled Omaha for 45 minutes and they decided to re-route us to Kansas City. We got to Kansas City took on fuel and headed back to Omaha, as the T-storms were supposed to be gone. Where do these guys get their weather from, anyone who has lived in the Midwest knows when a large line of T-storms sets up across the entire Midwest knows they are there for quite a while.

Any way off to Omaha we were by means of flying around Wichita, KS and trying to circle around the storms. It was the scariest plane ride I've ever been on. Up, down, side to side it all sucked. We hit ground it Omaha about 11:30 or so and me and my bro in law head to get the cars while our kids and Mrs. pickup up the luggage. No problem right? NOT!

I get to the Prius and the car is DEAD!! This is an electric car if you don't know so jumping it is a little more tricky. So we set out to jump an electric car in pouring rain standing in about an inch and 1/2 of rain water. I was a little nervous. We got the car started and finally headed home, we pulled in the garage about 3:10 A.M. and by the time we got the kiddos in bed and bags out of the car I hit the bed about 4:00 A.M. Needless to say the 7:00 A.M. alarm for work came to soon.

We are home, we are tired, but we had a great time I will post pictures summary of the trip hopefully this weekend.

Later

Off the Grid

2008-06-01T16:38:00.004-05:00

I'm checking out for a week or so as I'm off for vacation. I'm sure you will all go through withdrawals not seeing any new garbage posted here. The next day and a half will be spent mowing, packing, wrapping up things at work and preparing to leave.

To all you TDK riders, here is wishing you mild temps, tailwinds and cold beer on the tour. Ride safe and have fun. I will be thinking of you all and expect detailed blog postings about the ride.

As for me no biking for at least a week and a half, I will instead be occupied with weddings, my extremely excited smiling children and Disney characters.

Later

Ouch!

2008-05-31T19:00:00.003-05:00

My legs are fried, literally. Not tired, not sore muscles but SUNBURNED. I'm an adult, even though I don't like to admit it, and I take full responsibility and will try not to whine about it but damn it it does hurt. Yes, I applied sunscreen, I guess not frequently enough. I would add some more about the 75 mile ride today but my legs hurt to much to have the laptop sit on them.

TGIF

2008-05-30T08:07:00.002-05:00

We can't afford our gasoline.

Have a good weekend!

Don't Forget

2008-05-29T11:38:00.002-05:00

To vote on June 3rd, I took care of it today.

The Countdown is on!

2008-05-27T14:45:00.000-05:00

MySpace Countdown

One of those days

2008-05-26T10:20:00.004-05:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you feel like a big steaming pile of: And your head feels like this:

I had one of those days today on my bike. I knew I got a little too much sun yesterday and was going out feeling a little dehydrated and weak, but I stunk it up. In fact I felt so bad after 5 miles I stopped and just about lost my Hy-Vee biscuit and gravy breakfast. With that being said I think its time for a nap.

It's not just a day off work

2008-05-26T06:20:00.000-05:00

Please remember to thank those who have served and remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

If the Dogs don't get me the Cats will!

2008-05-25T14:35:00.002-05:00

Since I was a little frustrated with my earlier time trial by dog ride, I decided I needed a few more relaxing miles. Just to set the tone for this post let it be known I love animals and never like to see one get hurt, injured or killed, that is unless I'm out hunting them.

I decided after lunch to take an easy spin out to Mulberry Point and back a route I knew I wouldn't have any dog problems on (see previous post). As I headed out of Vermillion on the business route of Hwy 50 I was just reaching the area where road crews are widening the shoulder of the road. The shoulder right now is not there if fact if you cross the white line your in for about a 2 foot drop off. Knowing this I moved over to the shoulder on the other side of the road as I felt it was the safest place for me to be. Just as I did this I noticed a mini van coming toward me. As I was watching the van approach a black cat darted out of the ditch in front of the van and got smoked. I felt sick to my stomach seeing this happened several hundred yards in front of me and thought about stopping to try to help the poor thing. It did several flops and circles around the road and then disappeared into the ditch. I really did not want to start tromping around the ditch in waist high grass looking for an injured cat, who I knew by watching him get hit wouldn't make it anyway, so I decided to continue on. Just as I came to the spot of cat vs van all of a sudden a black streak comes flying out of the ditch and hits my front tire. It just about causes me to go down and almost launches me into on coming traffic. I stop regroup, check for bike damage and do a quick scan for the cat. It had disappeared again. How and why the cat did not end up in my spokes I don't know, but am very fortunate. Needless to say a very strange day of riding.

Reminder to self: Increase life insurance amount tomorrow.

Later

Who filled my seat post with Alpo?

2008-05-25T11:13:00.007-05:00

I woke up this morning checked the wind and temp and thought to myself why not go out and get an early 30 mile ride in. I grabbed some breakfast, got ready and slipped on my Gut-Check dog tags. I figured since I'm home alone a little ID to identify the body might be nice in case of an accident. Little did I know that dog tags attract dogs. At 10:00 I set out to ride the Meckling loop, a ride I usually do a couple times a week. There are a couple of places on this loop that have some dogs but usually they are well behaved and don't cause any problems. Today was NOT one of those days.

Shortly after leaving Vermillion and turning onto Bluff road I noticed a tan spot in the middle of the road about 1/2 a mile ahead. I figured it was a deer, I was wrong, instead it was a deer sized dog. He was trotting along in the passing lane going the same direction as me. As I approached he glanced back at me a couple of times but made no attempt to turn, growl or give me any need for fear. That is until I was next to him. He lunged at me just as I pulled up next to him, I stood up and hammered the pedals as hard as I could, he gave chase. I yelled at him as I gave it my all to put a gap between us, he kept coming. After an 1/2 mile of me running about 28 mph he gave up. My heart was ready to explode. I thought to myself why didn't I grab my Halt spray before I left the house.

I continued on. The next place that is always known for dogs along this loop was just a couple of miles ahead. These dogs usually run up the the side of the road and stop at that, not today. As I approached the farm place I could see the 3 mutts lying in the yard. I thought to myself it's my lucky day, they are sleeping and won't even bother, I was wrong again. Just as I was even with the farm place they came with all they had. I had a good jump but they had good traction in the grass and gained on me quickly. Once they hit the road I could hear the claws sliding across the pavement trying to gain on me. Once again I hammered and hammered hard, they chased for almost a mile.

I recovered a bit and headed on. I was just coming up on a farm place with a large feed lot, I have never noticed a dog at this place but guess what, out of the ditch comes another dang dog. He had much smaller legs and I didn't have to hammer as hard to stay ahead of him but he followed me for 2 miles.

By this time I haven't even ridden 10 miles and have been chased by 5 dogs. If you have ever ridden the Meckling loop you know whats next. The school house with the 2 Rotts. These are well behaved dogs and I have never had a problem with them. As I roll up about a 1/4 mile away from the school house, what happens. The Rotts come out of the ditch by the driveway, each one stands in a lane on the road and face me. They have NEVER done this to me before, I look around for the owner, as they are usually outside with the dogs, no owner is to be found. I did the only thing I could think of, I turned around. I figured it was better to back track and take my chances with the 5 dogs who probably at best might knock me over and maul me slightly rather than tangle with 2 Rotts that would eat me and still be hungry.

I did make it home. Only 4 dogs to out run on the way home and they were tired because they all had had a early morning work out thanks to yours truly. My easy 30 mile ride turned into 20 mile time trial thanks to every dog in Clay county wanting a piece of me.

Later

TGIF

2008-05-23T09:12:00.005-05:00

A love story in four pictures.

Stinkin Weather

2008-05-22T07:57:00.002-05:00

So the Mrs and the kids are out of here for the weekend, they are planning a long road trip to MI. I don't have enough time off available from work to go along so I'm home alone for about 5 days. Whats a guy to do?? RIDE you say and yes that was the plan, unlimited riding time Saturday, Sunday and Monday what more could I ask for. Have you looked at the weather forecast for this weekend rain, wind, rain, wind and some more rain. I can't get a break.

Later

Bunyan's to Bob's

2008-05-18T06:47:00.014-05:00

Bikes, Burgers, Beer, WIND and more WIND it the best way to sum up the Bunyan's to Bob's ride.

At 8:00 I arrived at Bunyan's, being the first one there I went for a quick spin around the neighborhood. By 8:15 rollers began to arrive and we settled into bar stools to await the 9:00 start time. In the mean time beer was drank, conversation was had and ceiling tiles were signed.

Ceiling Tiles Signed?? Bunyan's has started a tradition of signing their removable ceiling tiles. The Bunyan's to Bob's ride has it's own tile and was signed by all the riders, look for pictures on other blogs, I'm sure it will show up.

At 9:00 we were ready to roll, and roll we did with a brisk wind at our back we quickly made it to the bridge where we lost those crazy mountain bikers. Good time was made. We were easily rolling at about 22-24 mph with the ever increasing wind at our back. We pulled into Ponca and the group I was with decided on a quick pit stop. The small gas station/lumber yard/farm supply store had Orange Crush soda in a glass bottle, we couldn't resist. After downing our Orange Crush we were out the door with thoughts of burgers running through our brains. The last 7 miles into Martinsburg were a bit more of a challenge but only a small taste of the pain we would get to experience on the way home.

We made our way into Martinsburg and rode up to Bob's bar, the bar with no beer. The no beer was probably a good thing as we would need all the water we could partake of for the ride home. Burgers, cheeseballs and fries were ordered. The pyramid of cheeseballs arrived first, one order easily taking care of the 9 people at our table. Next it was the burgers or should I say sides of beef on a bun. The burger itself is right around 6 to 7 inches across the bun it about 3 to 4 inches across, meaning you eat about a pound of beef before you even get to the bun. It really isn't a bun but a beef delivery system. Much food was consumed, we would need every calorie of it as the worst wind I have ridden in for quite some time was soon to greet us.

Rollers left Martinsburg a bit spread out but we all soon grouped up at the gas station in Ponca. A pace line of around 10 rollers left Ponca and headed off to do battle with the wind. A 12 to 14 mph pace was established by Travis K. who would pull us all the way to Newcastle. Thanks again Travis. As I glanced back our pace line was beginning to fall apart the wind was knocking people out left and right. What was a nice long pace line soon dwindled down to 5 rollers. Finally we made Newcastle were we found air conditioning and a wonderfully nice poppy selling lady at the local gas station. Poppies were purchased and the cool air was enjoyed.

After Newcastle our pace line was thinned even more, now the group I was in was down to the kErnEl, the Muscle and myself. We decided to try to hold on to our 12 mph average and made our way out of town. About 2 miles out we heard a loud pop or bang, the Muscle's derailleur had exploded, pieces parts where everywhere. A call was made to Laura, the emergency sag driver, and a Muscle rescue was on the way. The kErnEl and I waited for the rescue wagon and what once was a 10 person pace line was now down to 2.

The kErnEl and I battled the wind together and caught up with Ed F., The Mayor and Evie. They had passed us while we were picking up the pieces of the Muscle's ride. We stopped at the Dakota Street corner to group up, have a drink and ride the last few miles in together. We finally made it back into Vermillion. The beer never tasted so good.

Looking back at the ride the only thing I can think of is.....

WHEN CAN WE DO IT AGAIN

Later

TGIF

2008-05-16T07:17:00.002-05:00

It's Friday, I got nothing except tomorrow is:

BUNYAN'S TO BOB'S

If that doesn't cheer you up and make you smile then nothing will.

Later

The Mrs.

2008-05-14T16:24:00.001-05:00

The Mrs. offered to mow the lawn for me tonight so I could get a ride in! Am I a lucky guy or what??

Thanks Dear!

Mother's Day Ride

2008-05-11T18:40:00.004-05:00

Ok, may-be a husband shouldn't go for a bike ride on Mother's Day, but my wife understands it has been a difficult spring to get much riding done. Between weather and activities, available riding time has been hard to find. The Mrs gave me the go ahead for a ride today so I of course had to take advantage of it.

I discussed with my fan club (that would be my 2 kids) on how far and where I should ride. They had lots of ideas, here are a few, Sioux Falls and back, Kentucky, North Carolina, China and of course around the world. All sound like fun rides but with a 3 hour time frame not very likely.

I sent out an email to the Lane Hogs to see if I could get some company. I didn't think it was very likely as Mother's day and many graduation activities are going on. Needless to say I didn't have any takers on the ride so it was solo for me.

I headed out of Vermillion at 1:30 the temp was 55 and the wind out of the NNW at 9-10 mph. It was clear and sunny though and a beautiful day to be out on the bike. I set in at my, happy I can ride all day pace, which is 15 to 16 mph and headed out. The first 30 miles flew by, I felt great, better than I expected so I decided to keep going. After another 8 miles or so I started feeling not so good. I realized the temp had continued to climb and I had not taken off enough layers to keep myself cool. I stopped, lost a couple of layers of cloths, sat for a bit, drank a whole water bottle and decided I was feeling a little better. The last 8 miles was a little rough, my stop and attempt at refueling with water didn't make up for my overheating. Anyways I made it home and it took me 2 full beers before I felt better. A nice day and a nice 45 miles regardless.

Later

$4.00 gas

2008-05-11T17:17:00.001-05:00

Who loves $4.00 gas some people do.

Sunday ride summary coming later.

TGIF

2008-05-09T07:07:00.002-05:00

Busy Weekend

2008-05-05T10:08:00.004-05:00

Once again the weekend has come and gone and it's back to work. I had a very busy weekend unfortunately there was no riding involved.

Friday I got off work about 2:00 P.M. and made my way home and did a bit of house cleaning. We were going to be gone most of the weekend and had a baby-sitter scheduled for Friday night so I tried to pick up the house a bit.

Friday night the Mrs and I were off to her dept banquet. It was a fun night I even got to present a fellowship award (scholarship) to a student. I was given the honor as I'm one of the newest Scottish Rite members in the state of South Dakota. After the banquet it was off to Carey's for some liquid refreshments. I walked in the door of Carey's bar and who was sitting there drinking a beer, none other than NBA star Mike Miller. He is a close friend of one of the Mrs co-workers husband, so anyway now I can say I had a beer with a NBA player.

Saturday it was off to my big sister place in Omaha for a Disney planning session. We discussed and drew up Disney plans for several hours, hopefully having a good plan in place will help eliminate some confusion when we finally get to Disney.

Sunday we made our way home from Omaha and arrived back in Vermillion around noon. After unpacking we planted the rest of our garden. Beans, peas, onions, carrots, sweet corn and pumpkins were planted. This is our first attempt at a garden so hopefully we will see some good results from the work. After garden planting the Mrs took the kids to run up and down Spirit Mound and I stayed home and sat on the lawn mower.

Overall a very busy and tiring weekend, unfortunately looking a the schedule for this week finding time to ride is going to be a challenge, but it will be done. The Mrs has a very busy week finishing up classes for the year and I have several meetings I have promised to attend.

Later

TGIF

2008-05-02T07:41:00.000-05:00

I feel much better

2008-04-30T20:58:00.003-05:00

A good ride always makes the world seem like a better place. It was a bit windy, but Biking Brady was nice enough to pull for the entire ride, I'm glad we got out before the real crappy weather blows in.

Grumpy

2008-04-29T17:22:00.007-05:00

This is what happens when I don't get out on the bike enough, guess what I'm there. I plan to try to remedy this problem a little bit tomorrow night before all hell breaks loose in the weather department AGAIN. I have never had a tougher spring to get out and get some good quality miles in, time and weather both being the problem.

Weekend Stuff

2008-04-27T15:05:00.006-05:00

Here we are Monday is once again right around the corner. I had a very busy weekend and will hit a few of the highlights.

Friday I left for the 230th Scottish Rite Reunion in Yankton. I headed out of town about 9:15 A.M., it was raining hard and really blowing. I took it easy on the way to Yankton as there was a lot of water on the road and the wind was really gusting. Once I arrived in Yankton I made my way to the Scottish Rite Temple and checked in for the weekend. The dudes running the reunion were pulling their hair out by this time. The snow had started, people were calling in a saying they would not be able to make it due to the weather and conditions outside were only getting worse. Discussions were held on if the whole thing should be called off. The decision was made to continue with the reunion. If you have not had any experience with the Scottish Rite I will give you a little information on the reunion.

The Scottish Rite Reunions are held 2 times a year, each spring and each fall, the reunions are a chance to see other members, discuss business, and do degree work. In order to become a full member of the Scottish Rite first you have to become a Mason, once that is completed there are 32 degrees (classes) of Scottish Rite training you have to complete. The degree work started Friday at 12:30 P.M. and went until 10:30 P.M. Friday night, resuming Saturday at 6:45 A.M. and finishing up at 4:00 P.M. Saturday afternoon. After the degree work was done a dinner and banquet was held, I even had to give a speech.

The degree work is a look into yourself as a person, your relationships with others and your purpose and place in the world. The way this is accomplished it through acts, you are put into was is best described as a play and you are a character. Everyone else is in elaborate costume and knows their lines, except you. You are given instruction but part of the process is how you react to the different situations and how the different situations make you feel. It is really full theater, the sets are 100 years old and are really unbelievable.

Last but not least is the reason for the Scottish Rite, one of the main reason it exists is for philanthropy. The Scottish Rite philanthropy is children with speech and language disorders. The provide funds to run clinics and give book grants & fellowships for speech/language students. I will stop now since your probably sick of this by now, but if anyone wants more information feel free to contact me.

Sunday (today) was a recovery day, I was so tired from the weekend I slept in while the Mrs. and the kiddos went to church. This afternoon I did get off my butt and mowed the lawn. Only in South Dakota can you have a blizzard on Friday and mow your lawn on Sunday.

Here's to hoping for some good riding weather this week!

Later

Fried

2008-04-26T20:08:00.004-05:00

I'm back from my Scottish Rite Reunion and I am toast. It was a fun, informative and educational weekend but also very, very tiring. I am proud to report I have now completed my 32nd degree of Scottish Rite training and am a full fledged member of the Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. Yes I even have a funny hat, of which I'm very proud to wear. I will post more about the weekend after a 12 hour recovery nap.

Later

Biking/Family/Economics

2008-04-24T18:52:00.002-05:00

OK, if you read this blog you probably read Biking Brady's blog as well. Well I will put in my 2 cents on this up coming cycling year and look back into last year.

Last Year - Serious training started January 1st. I put in 400+ miles per month on the TRAINER Jan, Feb, March & April.

This Year - I put in 150 miles per month Jan, Feb, March.

Last Year - Every ride was a training ride, EVERY ride. I rode TDK at 18 mph average per day, everyday except 1. I rode the MS ride at 19 mph average each day. Club rides, people stopped showing up if they knew Biking Brady and I were coming, they got sick of our all out training pace. I treated each ride as a training ride for Gut-Check trying to make myself stronger and faster. I did get stronger and faster but I didn't have as much fun as I should have. Don't get me wrong the 07 cycling season was great and I enjoyed it but training became a mission, something I had to do. It became work.

This Year - I'm going to ride lots! I will ride a lot but I have no training plan, no set speed I want to be able to ride at, no mileage goal, I want to ride as much as possible and enjoy every mile of it. I also don't have as much time for training this year, I have a family wedding/vacation planned in June for a week and 1/2, happens to be the same time as TDK. I have another family wedding in July in Rapid. These are going be fun family trips but very costly $$ wise and would take away a large chunk of training time.

The $$'s this year is a factor too. Gut-Check was a costly ride for me last year, if fact I figured out the week of TDK was less expensive than my weekend Gut-Check ride. Will I do Gut-Check again, I fully plan on it. May-be next year, it beat me once and I really don't like to admit defeat. I fully plan to stare the beast down again in the future, just not this year.

Later