Obscene traffic

Today's commute was uneventful, thank goodness. The traffic was incredible this morning close to our satellite campus at the Pickle. I was nearly unable to cross 183 and Burnet twice this morning. The ride on the other hand had practically no vehicles. Not sure why there were so many vehicles this morning but they were sure in a hurry to get to the next red light. I circled around in a parking lot for about 5 minutes before ditching the effort to cross 183 at the u turn before Burnet and crossed Burnet to get to the light to cross 183. Had to hang out in the turn lane for a minute or two before completely crossing. I swear there were hundreds of cars passing and not one had more than one person in it. What has our country turned into?
How about Tiger limping around the US Open and still making a playoff? Got to root for Rocco. Never won a major against 13 time winner. Go Rocco.

longer commute

Decided to ride a little longer today as I went out to the boat to pick up a log book. Turns out one of our grad students can't keep track of his days in the field. The ride ended up being 24 miles this morning. Nice little commute but that messenger bag gets a little heavy and sweaty after an hour. Lots of lights to go through also. I was only 9 of 25 this morning. Not a very good percentage for catching green lights. Yesterday was worse only 5 of 15. Wouldn't it be great if bikes ruled the roads and cars were asking to share the road? We may be getting there. Gas is above $4 a gallon. Who is actually profiting from this?

It pains me

Suffering from back pain sucks. It all started Friday when the boards for our deck decided to fall out of the back of my truck. As I was frantically trying to get them back in, I strained my back. Well it didn't stop me from working and not knowingly compensated all weekend with my lower back. Whilst lubing my chain for my ride to work yesterday morning just lifting the seat and twisting I felt the pop in my lower back. It almost brought me to my knees. I can't believe the irony of this. I am not sure what is hurting more. The pain in my back or not riding due to the pain in my back. Sure hope this Ibuprofen helps...

dropped chain

People are really strange here. Trying to figure out this biking community. I wave to everyone on a bike, so you would think the other would wave back? Does this fall into the lines of the timidness expressed in the TX driver? Can't take hands off the handlebars? Can't nod the head? Eyes must stay focused or can't focus? Bumper sticker say "Keep Austin Weird" Well guess what guys, that ain't gonna change quickly here. You all are weird....
Well I was approaching the 11th light today on my morning commute, having only caught 5 green. And I saw that traffic was moving toward me. This is a blind approach to the light and can only be seen about 100 feet before you get to the intersection. Since traffic was moving and looked as if it had just started I thought "Great a green light". So I start revin' it up and just past the tree that hangs over the road to obstruct your view I see Yellow then Red. Crap. I am in the big ring and 3rd. shift to the small ring so I can at least start on the uphill when the light turns green and low and behold the chain drops and no momentum to pick it back up. I nearly feel over getting my foot out. So stuck at the intersection on an uphill with no chain. Just had to get the hands dirty. Glad I did it since I have been neglecting maintenance. I will need to clean my bike up soon. Anyway ended up 5 for 13 for the morning commute.

10 to 2

Late start to the morning for me so I commuted with the 10 to 2 crowd. Less people but more need for medication. Wow, these people need to go to driving school. They always think they are doing you a favor by camping out at a stop sign to let you go when they have the right of way. Cars and trucks will hurt if you get hit. Efficiency is not the realm in TX. Gas guzzling SUV's and trucks is the way here. Oh Austin is so green, BullShit! They are still part of TX and texans could care less how much gas costs. They will keep buying it and parking on the interstate during rush hour everyday. I love riding across the interstate and seeing how many of these people are wasting time by sitting in their vehicles to get to work or get home everyday. No wonder our nation is obese. Lazy, lazy, lazy...
Enough of that. Had a nice ride home on Thursday 7 for 15. First 8 lights I caught green or somewhat green. Great ride on Saturday. 25 miles of undulating asphalt. I don't think I went a half a mile without climbing or descending. Just glad to be riding. 5 of 13 this morning, so the 10 to 2 commute is looking the quickest. Can't wait to ride home when it should be 100 F. At least it is dry. After living in New Orleans, it's weird to not be drenched after a ride.

Riding again

Well more like commuting. Finally got my lazy ass back on the bike and am commuting 11 miles to an from work. I think everyone in Austin or even TX is on Prozac or Zoloft or any of those pills that make you happy when you feel sad. Drivers here are spacey. I actually feel safer riding my bike to and from work than driving. I have found a route that is pretty much has continuous bike lanes, although cars are aloud to park in them and occasionally you get the nut job who drives in it. Today there was only one jerkweed who honked at someone who was giving me space as I was forced into the lane by a parked truck in the bike lane. Guess he forgot his meds this morning. I have several routes to choose from and encountered 12 lights today. Caught 5 red so pretty good morning. I am sure the ride home I will encounter more red lights. A few weeks ago I was 12 of 15. Looks like Contador will take the pink jersey to Milano, if he doesn't crack on Gavia. What does Johan have that no one else does? Hmmmm.....

Riley

Riley
Jan. 24, 2000 to Dec. 4, 2007

A very rough night as one of our family was put to rest early this morning. Our Pooh-bear, Fuzzy-man, Super fuzz, Big Fuzz, Beaver dog, the Fly catcha' amongst many other nick names. He responded to them all. We want to remember the happy times with him, which was all the time. Watching him carry a huge log around then devour it later. Playing ball non stop. Howling with us and the sirens. Enjoying the Blue Hole with his buddy Cash. I wanted to let you all know about him, because as you got to know him better you found out what a great dog and companion he could be. So when you see a log you don't think is possible for a dog to move think of our Fuzzy Elvis. He has left our house but not our hearts.

Wacky

Man o man are people screwed up. check out this nut job's "artistic voice". Why can't television just have a TRUE view of how America is really doing. Just a thought.

Double wammy

The uphill trudge to work was met with headwinds of 20 and gusting to 30. Nothing to hide behind just kept head down as much as possible. The cooler temps were the only good thing this morning. At least I wasn't drenched in sweat arriving at the goolaug. What a screwy place this is. Makes me wonder if I really made the right decision. It was the only option at the time so we will see how this works out for at least a year. Our home is progressing and hopefully we will meet the Dec. 15th projected closing date. Keep your fingers crossed.

Revolution

We need to get that mf out of office... Just listen to Keith Olbermann. He's got it right you right winged fools!

Can you do better?

I don't think it could be said any better....
"Congressmen who willfully take actions during wartime that damage morale, and undermine the military are saboteurs and should be arrested, exiled or hanged!"
President Abraham Lincoln

Here here!!

Existence

At Tulane.... No longer. the guys there have pulled my email account so I no longer exist at Tulane University. I feel a little empty over this because my great grandmother always wanted me to go there. Although I didn't go to school there, being employed there can almost replace that. I guess if I was an alum or donated a ton of money I could have kept an account there. Time to accept Texas as home... Naaa! Southern Louisiana is the place for me. Coon ass through and through!

Scary things

My memory! Finally got to my old computer and can log in. I believe we are all in line for the dreaded CRS disease, it's just how close to the front are you? I must be getting there rapidly. Rode to work this morning and got to the office and picked up my towel and clothes to go downstairs to take a shower and forgot my pants on my desk. Had to put all my cycling stuff back on and truckit up stairs then back down. Glad I left them here yesterday or I could have been pantless today. Not a good thing with the way people are around here in TX. Back in New Orleans I probably would gotten away with it. I might need a small note pad to carry around with me. What day is it? At least I can remember that down at the right corner of the screen. Happy Halloween everyone.

Policia

Never there when you need one but always there to hassle you. Traffic had no problems going around me yesterday morning until the cop got behind me. I thought at first this guy must have some brake problems. Turns out he was just hitting the button on his intercom to get me to move. Hey dumb ass there is a curb right next to me and if I move any further over to the right my pedal will hit it and I will surely end up on the ground and under your tires. He finally came on his loud speaker and told me to turn in the parking lot so he wouldn't hit me. No one else had that problem. Where do these guys learn how to drive. Of course... he was probably late for the hot doughnuts down the street.

Double letter states

They have to be the worst drivers. It hasn't failed here. Everytime I have a close call with some ignorant motorist their license plate is from Mississippi (the worst), Tennessee or Pennsylvania. I haven't had problems with Hawaii but not sure how that would go. Is it something with the double letters? The level of education? or down right stupidity. I think the later because I don't like traveling through any of these states in the first place. It has to do with the drivers. All the drivers ed flunkies have congregated to these states. It's got to be the repetitive letters.

aan

Another day and another blog about not much. Got in close to 60 miles this weekend and my legs are sore. Not used to the rolling hills I have been pounding. I really haven't rode the hills out west yet but plan to do so someday. Got my sights set on the Wurstride. It will be nice to suck down some brews and feast on some brats at the end of a long ride.

Traffic

Too much early morning or for that matter anytime traffic. Not used to all the vehicles. I guess I was spoiled with the levee in New Orleans. Speaking of NO, I was back there briefly to retrieve some equipment. Man was the food ever good! You take things for granted when you are somewhere for a while. But going back, I went to Mandina's on Canal. Got the seafood platter with grilled fish and shrimp. I totally recommend getting the fish and shrimp grilled instead of fried. I ate dinner and lunch the next day on the same tab and was full after each. It was wonderful. That amount of food here would have cost me an arm and a leg and wouldn't have even come close to the flavor. Still looking for the good food.

I know what it means...

A few weeks ago we had to say good bye to New Orleans and have been missing it since and will continue. The day we drove out C couldn't even speak she was so broken up. I had tears flowing down my cheeks. It really didn't hit me why I felt so bad, but now I know.

The people. There are far too many stories to talk about in a simple blog, but to all you guys on the levee, my neighbors, the local dj, my coworkers, the bus drivers, the supper club, the artists, the musicians, the professionals, the blue collars, the unemployed, etc. Just to pass by any of you there and you get a smile and "how ya doin'?" Next thing you may be having a beer with them at a local bar or even in their home. Tasting some food off their table or offering some off yours. I miss sitting on the porch and conversing with whomever walks by, tossing a few back. The ease with how the city went about. Most don't get it and it isn't the most efficient way of going about business, but that's the way it is.

To all you suburbanites, You Suck! This life sucks and it will take you down rapidly. I just hope our house will be done soon so we can move closer to the city. Maybe we will see Austin in a different light then. But now, I see the green city isn't so green. Most democratic Texan city is very conservative, what's up with that? Music scene? I miss the tuba guys on the corner practicing into the night, give me some Funky Liza. Where is Chris Rose?

I know what it means...

Last levee ride

Well it looks as if I have done my last levee ride as a New Orleanian. We have a contract on our house and have to vacate this Friday. Lots of crap going on with the move as we have had inspectors a plenty come through yesterday, appraisers today and more inspectors tomorrow. I am spending my days looking for housing in Austin. Looks like we have a place far from town. Not the New Orleans commute that I am so used to. Suburbia life is going to suck! We have a home being built, but due to all the rain TX construction has been delayed. I sure hope Austin will have safe roads for riding. Due to the population increase there I have found quite a few vehicular accidents involving cyclists. Could be a stressful commute down the road. I will definitely look forward to another day up on the levee, but until then got to find somewhere to ride.

Erin gone no rain

Well Erin passed us up without a drop and it is still damn hot. Got out to the levee, late as usual, and had someone pass me as I was warming up. I should say loosing up the legs as it was all ready in the mid 80's and I was sweating profusely. I jumped on his wheel and went for the ride. He was down on his tt bars so I sat in. After a few miles he let me take the pull and I asked if he was done or heading out further. He said he was going to the end, so I pulled until I met the group, just past the parish line and jumped in with them for the return. For the days of summer here it was unusually windy and we had a cross head wind on the return. It was a nice workout but sometimes a little of "what the @#$% are you doing".
At work now and starting to pack things up for the move to Texass. At least they are having a wet summer. I better not say too much or we will get crushed by Dean. Speaking of not saying too much, why is this snippet from Cheney just making headlines. What a hypocrite. 1/20/09 isn't close enough, get rid of 'em now!

Storm's a brewin'

We are looking at Tropical Disturbance 34 in the Gulf and Tropical Storm Dean out in the Atlantic. I wish 34 would turn due north and drop some rain on us. Man is it hot. The AC just won't shut off and it is 84 in the house. As for Dean, he can stay out in the Atlantic and head north for some of those hobnobbers up on the eastern seaboard.
Finished a short ride today in a full soaking of sweat. Seems to be a pretty repetitive experience these dog days of summer. Met up with Elyse at the zoo, she has been out of commission for the last month. So we rode out slowly to Florida chatting about photography and bike racing. I decided to turn with the group and head home, problem about having to go to work. I was pleasantly surprised to find the pace civilized. Good since I have no form right now. I found out from Randy that Tulane made the top 25 of US News for recovering schools. They actually headed the list. At least they made some list.

Sweatering

It has been so hot lately I feel as if I am wearing a wool sweater on my rides. Had a nice dinner at The Pelican Club downtown saturday night which lead to a late sunday morning ride. Kind of dehydrated due to the many cocktails consumed whilst eating a delicious meal. Richard sure knows how to cook but not to good about showing up for rides. This morning wasn't any different than the last 2 weeks of sweltering heat. 20 miles and completely soaked to the bone. If we don't get some rain soon I am going to have to water the roof for some relief. Anyone out there wishing to buy a house in NO? We are selling and heading to Austin with new job positions. Got to sell, but the market really sucks right now. Insurance, taxes, economy, crime,... just depressing. Somebody help!

Tinted windows suck

My fitness level is pathetic right now. I practically melted this morning on the levee. Tried to stay with a 4 man break that was just smoking and only lasted 5 minutes. Almost heaved my mango juice. Met up with Richard and we soft pedaled it in. As we were going through the Zoo parking lot a small SUV decided to back up right into us. Or course they had tinted windows so dark that you couldn't even see the driver. No eye contact is a bad thing. We yelled and they continued to back up as we swerved to miss. I have a feeling they were busy adjusting the radio and not paying attention to the surroundings. Hey your behind the wheel of a 3500lbs weapon. PAY ATTENTION!

Heat and Age...

just don't mix. I was as usual late for the levee ride this morning, but caught up to Joe on the way out. Joe is about 500 years old and he looked it today. We had a slight head wind going out and I had him sit on my wheel. He kept dropping off so I kept dialing it down. We made it to Florida St and saw Donald with two girls and I really thought we should have turned around there, much better scenery, but Joe wanted to meet the larger group. We finally saw them just past Williams and we turned before they arrived, but Joe didn't have the speed when they passed and he couldn't catch on the tail end. I kept looking back and decided to pace him home. Clayton was on the tail end of the group and if you are used to riding with him you always keep your distance. One he doesn't ride often and when he does he is always at his limit and only mm's from the one in front of him. Jerky moves in the paceline makes for a nervous ride. So anyway I kept Joe with me as I could hear the squeak of his chain. Everytime I lost that sound I would slow down so he could catch up, because it was damn hot. I am talking Africa hot!!! Once we passed the playground I had a look at ole Joe and he is leaning to the right barely on his seat. "You all right?" "Age is not on my side." was the response. So we soft pedalled it home. I left him at the park hoping he is still alive. I am sure he made it home, but I bet he is one tired old dude.

Remember the Hokies

Below is an excellent article that explains the Hokie community and how special it is to all students, faculty, staff, alumni and local residents. Ut Prosim.

by Will Stewart, TechSideline.com

General Manager and Managing Editor

Apr 18, 2007

I am in the business of writing, of articulating my thoughts, of putting into words what others may only sense as a blur of feelings. I have never backed down from the challenge, be it capturing the emotion of a landmark victory, the pain of an agonizing defeat, the triumph and heartbreak that are part and parcel of athletics, even the horror of 9/11 over five years ago. It is my calling, my passion, my God-given talent. But I fear this ... this is too much. I am not speaking lightly when I say that I cannot comprehend the loss suffered by the families, friends, and loved ones of this tragedy. I have tried to imagine what it must be like to suddenly lose someone close to you in this way. But I can't. I have a wife and three children, and when I try to put myself in that place, that terrible place where so many people have been thrown with no recourse, I can't. It has only been two days since it happened, but it feels like forever. I am exhausted from being exposed to the brunt of it, from the message boards to the constant news coverage, to the conversations of family and friends, to the scenes on the Virginia Tech campus. Others have said they can't sleep. Not I. When I have fallen into bed past midnight the last two nights, sleep has come easily. It's getting up the next morning that has been difficult. We never thought this would be us. We have watched these kinds of tragedies from afar, but this one has hit us where we live. The media have descended from around the world, poking, prodding, and worst of all, trying to place blame. An immense amount of pressure has been brought to bear on the Virginia Tech community, first by Cho Seung-Hui himself and then by the crush of international attention. While some of the coverage has been compassionate, much of it has not been, and some of it has bordered on cruel and sensationalistic. None of this surprises me, but being at the center of it still stings, and it changes your perceptions forever. As I searched for meaning in what happened, I finally found it. I found it in the incredible poise, control, and togetherness shown by the Virginia Tech family. The true character of a person, group, or institution shows itself under pressure, and what the Virginia Tech community has shown us is grace, cohesion, intelligence, and compassion. I have always thought that there was something different about Hokies, and the last few days have proven it. We always talk about the passion that Hokies have for Virginia Tech, about the special connection they feel to the university, and this tragedy has shown that talk doesn't ring hollow. If it wasn't true, if there wasn't a special bond between members of the Virginia Tech community, then they would have flown apart in the face of this adversity. They did not. They drew together and showed the world a united front. Those interviewed by the media refused, for the most part, to be drawn into the baiting questions that sought to place blame on university president Charles Steger and the Virginia Tech Police Department. The very students who were in danger Monday let the world know where they stand when they applauded Dr. Steger at Tuesday's convocation service. The vultures were circling, hoping to pick the bones, but the people at Virginia Tech refused. They showed what it means to be Hokies. They drew together. The students in particular have exceeded my expectations. We tend to think of them just as kids. Loud, shallow, self-centered, focused on the trivial, often spoiled. Adorned with body piercings, tattoos, and too much facial hair. What we have seen instead, in the countless interviews of students on news channels up and down the dial, are bright, articulate, respectful individuals that any university would be flattered to call its own. Well-groomed, well-spoken, wearing dress clothes, ties, even suits, patiently answering questions, keeping their composure in the face of more than most of us will ever experience. I am on the one part humbled -- they are better people than I was at their age -- and on the other part proud. Well done, students of Virginia Tech. You are representative of the type of people Virginia Tech is admitting and producing -- you, not Cho Seung-Hui -- and I am proud of both you and my university. From the beautiful and gifted Reema Samaha to the cheerful, intelligent and talented Ryan Clark, Cho's victims were pictures of inspiration. These were not vapid, self-centered individuals. It is sad that their lives were cut short, but perhaps the way they conducted those lives will inspire others. They make me wish I could go through college again, to be more like them. By the nature of what I do for a living, my window into the Virginia Tech world is athletics. Among the fans, athletics is about passion. It is about pride in victory and anguish in defeat. These emotions are always strong, always out of proportion to the importance of the games themselves, but I have always felt that with Virginia Tech fans, there was something beyond the typical fan relationship with their sports teams. Now that I have seen that passion and togetherness extend beyond the playing fields and the stadiums and coliseums and into the glare of this awful spotlight, I know it to be true. Being a Hokie is not a mercenary relationship. It is not a business proposition. It is not an exchange of goods and services for money. It is a shared bond, a love that comes from somewhere we don't understand and can't explain to others. We do not take from this university; it gives to us. Perhaps when we first arrive on its campus, we have our own selfish interests in mind, but by the time we leave, we are transformed. We are Hokies. It is sad and tragic that this happened to us. Because we love this university, we are devastated by what happened here. But if it was necessary for us to suffer in order for others to benefit, it is a burden we will bear, because our motto -- Ut Prosim, That I May Serve -- tells us that's what we must do. If our tragedy brings you together, if our loss makes you safer and makes you value what is important in life, if our suffering is not in vain, then we are prepared to shoulder this load ... so you don't have to. That has always been the mission of this university, and we are honored to carry it out. Do not let the deaths of these 32 victims be in vain. Look into your hearts and see what it teaches you, and how you may be better because of what we have gone through. And know that when the bodies are in the earth, when the media has left, when others have moved on and life resumes its course, that for us, there is only one emotion left: Love. Love for this university, love for the people who died on April 16th, 2007, and love for those who are left behind. Remember this, and what happened here will not have been for naught. William Neal Stewart Virginia Tech, BSEE 1987

Ridin' again

Finally got my fat ass back on the bike. The weather has been nice the last week and didn't have an excuse not to ride. It was good to catch up with the group and see everyone is in much better shape than I. Since there are no races that I see myself participating in, I'll go at my own pace. Beer is a good thing and I don't plan on giving it up. So easy rides will get me to my goal of losing a few pounds and enjoying those endorphans.
Been busy with work, catching the passing fronts out off the Atchafalaya River with our tripod. Looking at sediment movement along and off the shelf. Pretty cool stuff. We hope to be able to come up with some kind of plan for coastal regeneration, but everyone here knows there just ain't enough sediment coming down the rivers to promote it. Thanks ACOE! Love dem dams and doze levees. I guess NO would have been gone a long time ago if we didn't have levees or would it? Another question for another porch drinking day.

slacker

The slack Jack is writing again but not really riding yet. Gained a few pounds that the only way I can loose them is to run. Not too fond of running but the weight dose eventually come off. Just trying to get into a normal routine again. Had a couple of trips to UNC, weather got crazy cold, and just generally got lazy. Trying something different to get motivated again. I was actually going to ride this morning but the roads were wet. Boy I have alot of excuses. Just do it, right?! If anyone is reading hope you are doing well and have some more motivation than I do. Happy Holidays.

Ali's defense

Congrats to Ali for finishing his PhD in Isotopic Geochemistry. The "old crew" of Tulane's EENS faculty were on hand, as 3 of Ali's committee members were former faculty members. Now they are at Texas A&M and UNC. I got to catch up with my former boss and ready his laboratory move to the east next month. Man there is a lot of stuff, and most of it is very heavy. Not going to be a fun week of lifting things.
As for riding, it has been pretty poor as of late. I went on my first ride in about a week today. Just 90 minutes of spinning and I was pretty pooped. I really wasn't looking forward to sampling the river after that, but it went well. Still freaking hot here. Sure a cold front came through, but the heat is still around. Looking forward to some cooler days in the near future. Maybe that will motivate the clean up around the Big Easy.

Bathroom remodel

Can you say fun? Well remodeling our only bathroom is a big pain in the ass. It started at the beginning of last week and this past Labor day weekend was full of labor. New sink, fixtures, paint, crown molding, tile. Thank goodness we kept the toilet and tub. It does look nicer, but when you have your wife breathing down your neck to hurry up in finish, who gives a rats ass what it looks like, just get it done. A few touch ups with paint and move in the new storage thingamajigs and we will have it. I hope she doesn't decide to jump into the next project right away. I need a break. I haven't riden much at all the past month. But I had a nice little ride this morning. It actually felt some what cool. Where did that come from? I shouldn't say cool, but tolerable. Had a nice chat with Richard and David about why carpenters are expensive. Good ones should be, crown molding is a pain in the ass. No matter what tools you have it takes about 3 to 4 pieces before you actually get the cuts right. I finally made myself a template so I hope I can save it for the next time... that is if there is one.

Napa

This is the way to see Napa. I haven't been riding much this past month but was happy to go on a short tour of a few wineries via pedal power. Catherine and I had a blast on the bike and I was really glad that she enjoyed it. The rest of our trip she wanted to go riding. The weather there was incredible. Very different from what we have been experiencing in New Orleans. We had a blast. Not too fast and not too slow, we had lots of time to check out the scenery and taste quite a few wines around the Yountville area. If you are ever there and want to ride check out Napa Valley bike tours and they can hook you up. Great people. They were even impressed with our use of the "water bottle" cage. As for coming home work has been crazy and I head out into the field sunday. Man o man summer sampling is here and won't stop until the weather cools in NO. That will be a while. Not much else to say, just going to hook up with my sister and one of the bros this weekend with all their kids at the parental units home. Should be a mad house.

Sluggo

Boy, have I been a slug lately. Just don't feel that snap in the legs for the past week and a half. I am sure that this funk I am stuck in has something to do with it and the sampling yesterday whipped me. Man was it hot. I actually waited until there was a pretty descent cloud cover but that didn't help. The ramp at the Audubon landing was very steep and pushing up 120 liters with a dollie is no joy. It is about 50 paces up but by the time you reach the top you are panting and the sweat is beading up all over. During all this I was sweating so profusely that when I was done it looked as if I had just jumped into the pool. I don't think I took a piss until just before going to bed last night.
Well I slugged my way through another uneventful bike ride on the levee. Of course I was 10 minutes late due to a jersey problem that I had tired to fix before departing but soon gave up and will try and fix later. Threw on a dirty one and got on down the road. Ugh, my legs had no gas and so is everything else associated with this body. At least I have a vacation to look foreward to, starting manana. Napa will be a nice relief, as long as the wife can ease up on the worrying.

catchin up

Been a while, but it has been pretty busy at home, work and on the bike as much as possible. After the boring trip to Galveston we had our annual pilgrimage to Avery Island where lots of good food and cocktails were readily consumed for 2.5 days. We had a full house and enjoyed entertaining our guests, but it really wears you out. So this week has been detox time. I finally got back on the bike tuesday and suffered through a fairly easy ride. I had to sit up at the end unexpectedly due to the rumbling presence in my lower intestines. Time to get home! Only problem was if I tried to go faster the worse it was. Relief came about 30 minutes after I got home since the wife was occupying our only bathroom getting ready for work. Not a fun 45 minutes.
Wednesday's ride was much better as there was a smaller then normal group and no one really attacked. Nice and steady. Thursday I went later with David, Luke, Mark, Joe and Margeret. We went later to get Richard to ride with us. Of course he was a no show so we soft pedalled for about 5 miles before we got into a nice rhythm. We saw the early group just past Williams and decided to jump in. Ronnie was pulling around 25 on his TT bike and kept it going for about 2 miles then VJ took over and did the same. Once Randy got to the front the pace picked up slightly and I felt like the guy in front of me would attack when Randy pulled off. Sure enough he did and we were going 29. When he pulled off I kept the pace for about 3 signs and pulled off thinking I could then ease back to 25. Well the same guy attacked again but it was a pretty futile attempt and he was gone. VJ came around me and we kept it steady at 25 and rotated a couple of times. My pulls being shorter as I was about at my limit and then let him go thanking him for pulling. Soon Randy and Ronnie caught me and I just hung on to the end. Once there Richard showed up. Imagine that. So I turned around with him and rode a few more miles and headed in. Boy was it hot. Enough rambling for now. Until next time as a local radio host says, "Entertain your own damn self."

Bored in Galveston

Got back from a work cruise in Galveston yesterday and man am I pooped. I don't know if it was lack of sleep on board a 60 foot vessel with 5 other people working 24 hours a day for 5 days or the boredom of doing seismic lines. We would just go back and forth parallel to the beach at 5 knots for hours on end. Each line 100 meters further or closer to shore from the last. I thought I was stuck in jail with little room to move around and the coast within swimming distance all the time. Sure was nice to get home.
Went out for a ride today and felt pretty crummy. My stomach ahas been bothering me ever since I got back from the trip. Well I met the fast group before I got to the normal turnaround. I really didn't want to ride fast but got sucked up into it. When I finally made it to the front I noticed we were keeping it around 26-27 and I hadn't rode in a week. My stomach was on fire. Not good, I thought I could crap myself at any minute, but I held tough for a while. Until there were only 4 of us rotating and about 10 just sitting on the back. Finally I had enough and pulled out leaving a nice gap for the sitters to try and make up. I really don't know if they caught the three out front, I was soft pedalling and letting my stomach settle. It was nice to be back but I should build into this again.

A chill in summer

Today was the first real summer day in NO. No wind and high, high humidity. The riding of late has been nice and my legs are feeling good, until today. Today seemed quite hard and we weren't going at a particularly fast pace , 21-23. With no wind, you just feel like it is a headwind since you are creating it. David and John were helping with the pulling and we had a nice ride to the parish line. On the way back we picked up Wes and John flatted just before the Huey P. As we stood around while he took forever to change the tube, seat was just pouring off me. I can be one salty son of a bitch and this day there was no doubt. I left a puddle where I was standing holding John's bike while he tinkered with the wheel. Then the only relief to a hot day is starting back up once you have been standing around for a few minutes becoming a raisin. I actually felt a chill and it was nice. It only lasted for a few 100 meters but it felt great. We just soft pedalled after John fixed his flat and that was ok with me. We have had 2 down pours since lunch and looks like more later today. I guess the city is finally experiencing a normal summer day here.

wet... no rain

Humidity is back. Those few weeks of dry weather were wonderful. Now just copletely soaked half way through a ride. I am always amazed at how much I can sweat. I really think I may live in a state of dehydration. How do those guys manage to stay upright when they have nothing do drink? I can't go on a ride without at least 2 large bottles of water.
Today was pretty nicewith John and I taking most of the pulls and Bob and Joe sitting on. My computer batteries are pretty dead as I don't think I registered an accurate speed all morning. Some of the time it was 0.0. Off to the store, and we will see how I have been training this weekend.

Triple shooting on the 4th

The riding has been ok as of late, just feeling a little rundown. Could be that summer is in full swing here with the humidity back to normal and the winds dying out.
The fourth was pretty relaxing for most of the day. C made some sangria and we hung out on the back deck and the front poarch for most of the day until the rains started. We heard the occasional firecrakers and whistlers throughout most of the day. But around 5:30 I noticed a fire truck pulled up to the corner of our block. No sirens, just guys walking down the street with EMS stuff. Maybe someone got burned. Oh well back to the sangria. About 15 minutes later a barage of news vehicles are lined up down the street. Oh shit, something bad has gone down and we missed it all.
Around 6 I took the dogs for their daily ride to the park to play some ball. As I passed the corner, I saw crime tape across the street. I asked someone with a notepad walking away what had happened. A triple shooting. Turns out about 10 people were on a porch playing cards. Some joker was standing on the opposite corner talking on a cell phone. After about 10 minutes he approached the game and opened up. Hit three people, two are fine, and the other we don't know about. Three kids were present at the time also. What is happening here? People just don't care about life anymore and they are not scared about committing crimes. Seems if they are picked up, they just get let out after a while to go about whatever they want. I am just down right sick of this. The city needs to get its act together or we will move. I don't know what I can do except complain right now. I know it doesn't help, but I don't have a gun and don't plan on having one anytime soon. I still believe that is a police matter.
Just wondering if things are going to get worse. A woman that gave a description of the shooter was upset but her description was very weak. White shirt, green and pink stripped pants and an umbrella. No skin color, height, weight... he stood there for 10 minutes before and you didn't notice. Is this description accurate? Are they planning their own retaliation? What the fuck?
Anyone who gets picked up by the police should have to do hard time cleaning the city. I don't care what they have done. Use the national guard to watch them pick up trash. Bring back the chain gangs. I think some good hard labor would rehabilitate some... at least I hope so.

Only a moron....

Well I couldn't sleep this morning and got up at my usual 5:15 to walk the dogs. I hadn't planned on riding so when I got back to the house I didn't feel like sitting around. I decided to head out. It's friday, easy day. I wasn't in any hurry to get to the meeting area. Once I got on Magazine to head through the parking lot at the zoo, I spotted Scott heading out ahead of me. He had about 250 meters on me. As we got on the bike path I was just spinning around 16 knowing he will stop at the meeting area. Riding from the zoo on the levee you have to pass the Army Corps of Engineers which has two entrances that cross the railroad tracks then the bike path and about two car lengths after that a gate. Well this morning there were two cars stopped at the gate as Scott approached and the bike path was clear. Clear until he decided to cross the the entrance. The, we will say person, in the second car decided that the guard was taking to long with the first car and threw it in reverse and almost hit Scott as he was crossing the entrance. He stopped thinking she, sorry, the person, would apologize but instead got an earful of profanity screamed at him. I think he had the classic comeback with "Only a moron like you would back into traffic". It was yelled loud enough for me to hear from 200 meters away. Turns out she, person, was a very large individual that probably hates exercise and only gets it by working her, their, jaw. We had quite a few laughs about it at the meeting area, but made sure no one would cross a road without looking twice for morons.

Cell phone crazy

My wife got me an upgrade on my cell phone. This one can fit into my pocket unlike the brick I used to have, so I wouldn't carry it around. Now that I have one I can, I get called constantly on it, and you can guess who is calling. On the other hand it is good to know someone needs you. Just hope she doesn't think I will carry it on a ride with me.
Today was pretty nice weather wise with a blustery northerly wind. The group sort of worked well for a while until Randy and I formed a second pace line which lasted our two pulls. No one would pull through so I just latched onto the first one and let the rest of them suffer with little draft due to the cross wind. When there is a cross wind on the levee only about 5 to 6 riders can enjoy a draft. If you are further back you need to ride in the grass to get anything or you are out in the wind. Hey second pace line makes sense. Well hopefully some of these guys will learn, but it looks like it will be the hard way. Much like the crazy cell phone use of today's generation. I still remember the days of rotary phones...

Sizzling solo sixty

Sixty miles today on and off the levee as I rode out past Norco and across the Bonne Carre Spillway. Very nice day for the summer, but around 9:30 am it gets HOT! I had 3 water bottles with me and a clif bar. Managed to drink one an hour but the last one went down in 40 minutes. Whew, it was nice to finish the entire ride in 3 hours. So not bad for a solo ride averaging 20mph. I am planning to go 80 this saturday which will most likely require a refreshment stop along the way. Destrehan returning? That snickers looks good...

Bored

It's been a while since the last post, but haven't had anything to say except that I am bored. Same ride most everyday, same job, same walk with the dogs, same everything. Well I am going to get some different scenery next saturday with a century ride. At least I am planning one. Just got to get through another week of sitting around at work with the same crap waiting to be done. Is there no end to monotony? I need a vacation! Anyone got any grand ideas for riding around the country and still be able to make a living? I have one, but it maybe too much to do and I don't think the wife would appreciate it. I should do it then!!! 100 miles a day for a year. Supported of course, but how to raise sponsorship, what cause to ride for and can it physically be done. Some days I feel like sure why not, then ouch what a sore ass I would have or no ass at all. I think it would be cool to see the entire country and visit at least all the state capitols and what ever research centers there are for the cause. My heart just feels like stone lately and can't seem to get out of the funk.

gettin hot

whew, got going early today. Not the norm of late, but felt ok to go to the dip or until I see the group returning. Well I got to the dip first so made my u-turn and kept the pace the same. Just thought I would see how soon they would catch me. I made it all the way to Florida before VJ and Randy came by and we were up to 25-26. I had been going 20-22 for the entire ride then had to pick it up. We had a nice rotation going then a four others caught up and the pace ramped to 27-28. Uhg, I started feeling the solo hour and 20min hitting hard. Not only were my legs feeling it but man was I ever sweating up a storm. Haven't done that since last summer. When I got home my shoes were soaked as was everything else. The hot days are back. That weather a few weeks ago would sure be welcomed again...

2 sign ride

My favorite ride on the levee. We had 3 again but the pace was quicker and we did the 2 sign rotation. The levee has numbered signs about every 2/10th of a mile and 2 is just about right when pushing the pace to then drop back and suck wheel til your next turn. I felt great today and was a little twitchy, so at the end I pulled for about 1.5 miles at 23 into the wind. The weather was fantastic once again and I think it will continue through the weekend. Perfect for painting, since we need to finish the house. Just got to find time to ride....

Krewzin

Nice, nice, nice. All I can say is Nice ride today. 3 of us and we just cruised along 18 to 21, depending on the wind. But I can't say anything bad about the wind. The ride felt great. There were time I had to catch myself from falling asleep. I don't know if anyone else has experience this, but sometimes you just get intranced and drift off. The wind kept me awake. Another good thing was that I was on time. Miracle in these days of too much to do.
We have been painting our house the last two weekends and looks like it will be at least two more before we are done. I really don't mind doing it with this kind of weather we are having. We all know the heat is coming, but don't mind the relief.

blown away

Finally got the headset fixed the correct way. Thanks to Darryl at Adam's. So I was able to get out on the levee today. A nice cool front blew threw last night but the wind is still with us. Beautiful day on tap. I knew the wind would really be kicking once up on the levee. There is no protection from it out there. Riding along the stretch that takes you along Leake Ave, I saw speeds of 13 to 14 and that was tough to maintain. I actually passed a commuter going my way and I thought he was pedalling in place. All I could think is that this will feel really good on the way home.
Made it out to the country club and turned around with John as he was heading home early. I kept it steady with a nice head/crosswind and John stayed on my wheel. Met Joe as he was heading out at the stable so I turned around with him and we had a good ride back to the country club where we witnessed the earlier group come flying around the bend. They must have been going over 30 but I knew they would be slowing fast. I told Joe we should get on Donald's wheel. I made the Uey in time but Joe ended up getting in D's way and heard him yelling. I knew Joe couldn't get on so I waited for him and pulled him all the way home. All in all I was just glad to ride on a gorgeous day.

Great ride, but...

Beautiful morning on saturday. Headed out for a ride a little later than usual for a weekend ride, but needed to get some in before getting to the housework. Nice little headwind but I was surprised how fresh I felt since I haven't been riding too much lately. I was able to maintain 21-22 into the wind and kept that pace to the Crawfish shack or the Dip as others know it. Had a Clif bar and headed home. Very nice returning keeping it around 23-24. Averaged 20 including warmup and cool down miles. Pretty nice.
Upon getting home it became a rush to start painting the exterior of our home. Can you say fun? Not me, but it has been on "our list" for sometime. C just couldn't let me go to Jazzfest yet again for the second year in a row. One of my favorite things to do and she just doesn't get it. Well the house looks beautiful with it's Cajun paint job. For those that don't know, that is the front of the house is beautifully painted and the rest remains the same. We will get to the rest of the house the following weekends. I just hope I get a ride in before the painting starts again.

Coooool front

Yesterday's storms were just a preceeder to today's cool temps and windy conditions. After tuesday's summery ride the conditions were welcomed. Riding on the levee you will have head winds, tail winds and cross winds all in one outing. Being up there with no protection can be tiring.

It wasn't too bad after picking up three for the return at the parish line. We all worked together well and kept it around 20-22 into the wind and 24-25 down wind. But the last little surge after the Huey P hurt! Nothing like a nice 10 to 15 mph wind in your face and trying to maintain 20 for as long as possible. My legs are hurting right now. Hope the wind dies down some for tomorrow's outing and I can get to the meeting point on time...

Toyota United

Pretty cool concept for a cycling team to take on. They are looking for private donors to help support changes for homelessness. It is really cool to see professional athletes doing the right thing and not so much for the fame and glory. Check out Toyota United and see what you think.

The ride today started like the beginning of summer. Sticky and heavy. Did a few hard standing surges with some spinning in between. Flet very slimy by the time I turned for home with David and Taylor. When I made the turn I felt a slight headwind, but as we continued in the wind became stronger. By the end 20 was a very hard effort. Looking forward to the front that is suppose to pass this evening, but as usual it may just drag across north of the lake and we will get some effects later in the week. Keep your fingers crossed, jazzfest is approaching...

Pull out in front of me!

I must have had that plastered on my forehead. For the past several weeks traffic has been insane, and I may be one of them. Seems that everytime I come to a somewhat busy intersection, on my bike of course, some idiot is flying to a stop either to my left or right. Why is everyone in such a hurry? This city isn't that big and you will get there soon enough. I have slammed the brakes on too many times lately to avoid the soccer moms, ghetto blasters, and all the sun fried workers the city has claimed. I have been slowing down my rides to and from work and also heading out and coming home from the morning rides on the levee. At least we still have a levee without cars... wait a minute, there are always the large rock and sand trucks who don't give a crap who is in the right. Anyway I just hope I can avoid from being killed by the local idiot or for that matter the visiting idiot!

On another note today's ride on the levee was quite nice. Steady pace for the entire ride. Richard didn't show so I didn't do the urban tour. Kind of glad with all the morons on the road these days. I think the sun is really affecting everyone. Sure hope that rain comes today....

Urban riding

Had a great experience riding through Old Metairie and New Orleans with out much traffic during rush hour. Richard led the way through some high class neighborhoods of Old Metairie, where Katrina wasn't too nice. We saw trailers in quite a few driveways but the area is nice. We circumnavigated Metairie Country Club then ended up heading down Bonnabel drive to the Lake. We seemed to piss off a few soccer moms, but hey we are allowed to ride in the lane also. Took Lakeshore drive around to Franklin Ave and headed to the Quarter. Richard headed to work and I took Esplanade back to Mid City then Jeff Davis to Napoleon for the final stretch home. All in all it was nice but the roads are still the same ole bumpy drives you would always get. My arms were sore after. We plan on doing this at least once a week. Nice views and we can see how things are progressing around the city. Not very swiftly from what we can see. Hopefully some flood gates will be operational before June. Hmmm...

wearing down

The more I ride during the week the wearier I get while at work. Riding is definitely not as boring as work can be. It was a beautiful morning again. Temps in the low 60's and virtually no wind. Amazing since the wind didn't look like it would let up anytime soon. I know when the temperature begins to rise we will be sishing the wind would be blowing. As for now things are really nice up on the levee. Surprisingly there aren't that many people out riding. Maybe the sinus syndrom is taking its toll on others. I know too well how that can feel. Looking forward to getting out of doge for the next two days and seeing the Zephyrs play on saturday. Today is opening day.

Don't you wish you were here...

day light savings?

I think it sucks. Just keep the time the same and for all those people who like to sleep in, screw 'em! I really like to get up with the sunrise and not before, so since the time change it is back to walking the dogs in darkness. This is easier for the spastic Riley. The dog is scared of his own shadow. Anyway missed the group once again, this has now become a habit. So I ride out on my own and contemplate... on just about anything. The morning was perfect. In the low 60's with virtually no wind. So maintaining 21 was doable. Met the group about a mile from the normal turnaround and we kept it around 23-25 for the ride in. Nice and steady. Felt good and caught up with some of the guys since I can't make it out on time. Anyway heading to the parental estate tomorrow for a family meeting. Looking forward to some fishing. Time to get out of here since the weather is super nice. later alligators

Wind hurts

Another blustery day up on the levee this morning. Head winds can really suck! My legs are hurting and I really didn't do much. Sluggin' the extra puonds doesn't help. Here is to the weight melting away... HA!

Getting back to normal

It's been a while since my last post and too much has happened to catch up on in a single post... so I'll just skip it. Work is crazy busy, which is good but will only last until the end of June. I have sort of an option to stay, but it is not definite. The bike is doing well and I am finally getting back into shape. Katrina added about 15 to my midsection and I am slowly making prgress of losing it. Got about 8 more to go to feel good about my weight again. Nice ride this morning up on the levee. The weather is warming up and only a single jersey needed for the ride. The River had lots of fog and the wind was very light. Only an easy 25 miler today. Still trying to get used to the time change and I never set my alarm. Harder to wake up when it is still dark. Anyway back to the grind...

Katrina

Well it has been a week since we evacuated New Orleans and I can't believe there are still people waiting to be evacuated. Thanks George for all your useless help. I really hope that someday we can rebuild our city and take into account everyone and not just the mid to upper class. I really thought this country was about all men being created equal, I guess they are just not treated equal. No matter the final outcome, New Orleans has a great man as its Mayor and I hope he leads us to a brighter future. I am very fortunate that I could leave the city when I did, I just feel like crap now that I have no means to help the others that are stranded there. Please email your congressmen or persons to get the feds to do something. We have rescue teams from all over the country helping, just not enough man power that our military has on hand. If you have a chance this weekend view Jerry Lewis's telethon, he will be not only raising funds for MDA, but also for the hurricane victims.

CRASH

Well yesterday started out well, but couldn't get that good rhythm in the paceline. Felt more like a race. We all had a hard ride until the end when Eddie dropped his glasses and looked back for them. As he did his front wheel left the pavement and he tried to correct, which is nearly impossible. I was unfortunately right behind him and he layed down right in front of me and I went sailing over the handlebars and next thing I knew I am standing in the grass. Although between leaving the bike and standing, I hit the pavement HARD! Left quite a bit of skin from both elbows, my hand, knee and back along with fabric from my jersey. The fortunate thing, if there really is in a crash, is that neither one of us broke anything. I am really sore on my right side and my left wrist, so it is going to take a while to get back to normal. Just hope my dogs don't mind shorter play sessions while throwing a ball for a while.

You know how hot it is?

It's so hot that when I took a shower this morning after my brick workout, I only used cold water and it wasn't cold. It was quite comfortable and I could have stood there all day. I even got into the shower after I had stopped sweating. Can't wait until fall.

The workouts are progressing well. I actually enjoy the bricks. Makes running alittle more tolerable. Not my favorite thing to do. I am going to continue this schedule for the next month and increase my running mileage and then begin the time trial position on the bike for the last month before the race. Need to get some swims in also. It will all come together. So far so good, just wish we could have a cold front come through. Right!

Sitters

I decided to roll on throught the meeting area since I was early and get a jump on things before I got caught by the group. Nice to just spin at 20-21 before the craziness. Well I caught up to Todd and we talked for a while only going about 15. A little too slow to suddenly jump to 25+. Anyway the group finally came by at Williams and we jumped in. Not very well organized but we did our best. I was helping with a mediocre rotation. Kept running into traffic and that can upset things a bit if your not paying attention, like most people. They seem to get mesmorized by the person in front of them and will just sit there.

We picked it up after the dip going about 27 and over the small bumps which was fun, rollercoaster effect. That pace continued until the turnaround. On the way back everyone was intent on sitting in. I finally had enough and came from 8 back to get in front and start a rotation. Fortunately a few took the example and we had about 6 rotating, then 5, 4, 3, 2 and I was pooped by then. Every now and then a new face would show up and finally at the end about 6 came through. Saving it for the finish. Pansies! Oh well it was a good workout and I will just think that I benefitted more than they did.

First Brick

Well it wasn't too bad, although it was short, 20 bike and 2 run. No big deal, just trying to get used to transition. Had a nice ride averaging 20-21 and then a good run, not too fast not too slow. But man was it hot. My body just cranks out the sweat. I have been drinking water all morning and still haven't gone. Hope one works up soon or I will be in trouble for the morning "long" levee ride. I hope to do this every monday and friday and work the run up to 5 miles before I start pushing the pace. I think I can get that in the next 3 weeks. Got to find that swim suit.

Legs of lead

Whew, hot this morning. Got up very late to meet the early group and time trialed it from the house for about 35 minutes until I decided the group would be uncatchable at this point. That really put a hurting on the ole legs and I really couldn't get into a groove this morning. I made it almost to the Luling Bridge and found the group on the way back, really scattered along the path. So I turned around in about the middle of the spread out group and soft pedalled until Eddie came screaming by on his tri bike with a couple of followers. I jumped at the opportunity to finally draft someone. All be it, it was alittle fast, 28 and he kept it up for about 3 miles. Then we held pace at about 26 and I was feeling really tired. Don't know what it was but everytime I got to the back of the group I didn't feel like I was getting a break. Just felt like I had to keep accelerating to keep up. Well I finally had it when we were finally going 24 and there were only 5 of us. I just felt tired and sat up and could only maintain 16. My legs just felt like lead and couldn't maintain the turnover I wanted. So I had another 10 miles to go and took me a good 45 minutes to finally get home. Sure hope I feel better soon.

Knucklehead

Today almost was a repeat of Tuesday. I didn't ride Tuesday due to inclement weather, but I had to go out. Glad I did, because it only sprinkled for about 30 minutes and we seemed to have missed all the heavy stuff as the path was pretty wet in some places. We had a decent pace going 23-24 but seemed a bit slow for a thursday ride, therefore people were taking longer pulls. So not much action until the end of the ride. I happened to be at the end of the paceline, about 10th position, when Matt picked it up on the front. Well since the ride wasn't too tough I decided to see if I could catch the 3 that were off the front. I had a little trouble getting through but once clear of the group I ramped it up over 30 and was making good ground on them. As I got within 10 meters I noticed that a cop in his SUV was driving pretty eratic along the path. Moving to the right then the left and driving off the path. Well Matt started to draft his vehicle and when the cop pulled off the path he passed him. Not a smart move since there is an speed limit of 20, of course it is not posted, but we are suppose to be aware of it. He was going 30, and the cop pulled back on the path, determined his speed while everyone else knew what was coming up. We sat up and started yelling all kinds of stuff. This isn't a good situation because the cops will be out looking for us to be above the limit. Well the blue and red lights came on and he pulled Matt over to have a little chat. Ole Billy Bob was impressed with the speed Matt was going but not about the safety issues. Knucklehead! Just made us more visible and now if any complaints come in from the little ole ladies, we have a black mark against us. Dummy had to say, "Well I only ride up here once a week." Yeah, but most of us ride up there everyday.

830

830 miles for the month just on the road bike, 915 with commuting added in. Maybe someday I will break the 1000 mile barrier for the month, but not this year. I need to start picking up the running miles for the Triathlon in October.

Sunday I got in 60 miles. I headed out to the lake to meet up with the Giro. But I left late and had to stop and adjust my cleat on the left shoe. Therefore I knew I was going to miss the group. So when I finally reached Lakeshore Drive I just took a right and kept on going, right into a nice headwind. I thought "Boy is this going to suck by myself". I just tried to keep it around 20. I ended up riding for 90 minutes by myself before the group came by me in the same direction as me. Turns out I wasn't late after all. Well they had a nice clip of 24-25 going and I jumped in. A few of the guys asked if I had gotten lost. I just said they were late. HA!

Well things took a while to get going on the return from Venetian Isle and we just pedalled at 22 for a while then as we were approaching the Chevron station we ended up hitting above 30. The light was red so it was hairy getting through. A gapped formed and then that was the end of the group. I went with 5 others and we worked solidly until Jazzland road then there were 4 total. We had a great paceline up until the Shoney's. People started dropping like flys. Rob kept up his pace and I was with Scott, we eventually caught Rob on Hayne's Rd and picked the pace back up to 25-26. When we came to the first bridge near the casino they had a gap of about 25 meters on me because I had slowed for a red light. I blasted up the hill and Rob and I ended up dropping Scott. We kept our pace high until the next bridge over the canal and we both took off mano a mano. Rob got to the top first as I eased up near the crest, I was done. Felt good to be out there but I kept wondering about the rest of the giro. We weren't really going that fast and no one caught us. Oh well, maybe someone flatted. Didn't see anything relating to a crash on Randy's site so that made me feel better about taking off. Well looks like I need to get my running shoes in order. Only 11 weeks to go.

North winds

We may have some relief in sight. There was a northerly wind this morning and we had cloud cover for the entire ride. Thank goodness, because I worked my fanny off. Matt had his nice new time trial bike but he was civil on the way out. Others just couldn't seem to get organized. Donald kept letting gaps form and would just sit on. So I said to myself, "Fuck this, if anyone else wants to work they will follow". I went around him and we had four of us working together. Nice little paceline holding 23-24 into the wind. I was pretty tired at the turnaround, but the tailwind coming home was nice, at least until it became a crosswind and the pace really increased. Matt picked it up when Donald decided to play and we were hitting 30. There were many just hanging on, then a gap formed and we had 3. We pushed hard until Florida Ave, where we met up with some traffic which really slowed us down and about 4 others then caught up. We picked it up again and kept it around 25-26 for a few miles then all of a sudden only 2 were working, myself and Randy. Finally Matt came around and we were going 28. That dropped everyone else and finally Randy and I were dropped at the Huey P when Matt went to another gear. I had had it by then. Kind of hard to keep the fluids up when you don't get much time to gather yourself after taking a pull. I think it will take me all day before I have to pee. Just hope the wind holds for the day and brings some needed rain.

Wet shoes

Keeping up with the riding, just not with the heat or my posts. Anyway, had the maiden voyage of the new shoes, Nike Poggio III. Nice, with the exception of sweat retention. My feet are 6 inches above ground but I am still standing in water. Once the sweat reaches the mesh do you get any relief. The shoes seem to run on the hot end, but that could just be the weather. I look forward to wearing them in the winter. Everything else about them is right on. As for the ride, nothing out of the ordinary. Had Luke and David put in a small attack. Found out later it was to get back at Jeff from the day before. I don't think it bothered him at all. VJ dropped a water bottle on the return trip which got everyone to slow while he went to retrieve it. Just wishing it would rain! Can anyone send us some cool weather?

Thirsty Thursday

Another hot day to ride. Boy am I glad I have decided to ride with 3 water bottles. Sure makes a difference recovering after the ride. I literally look like I just got out of the pool when we are done. When I see some of the guys that don't even have a bottle, I wonder how they manage the rest of the day. I even drink water all day long to replenish the punishment I am dealing my system every morning. I am actually looking forward to a beer ar two this evening.

As for the ride, it was fairly civil when you look at who showed up. No one rode too agressively and it just suited everyone. Similar to how the last few stages of the Tour have been going for the peleton. Just hanging around until the finish. We all thought Howard would lay down the sprint at the end but it turns out no one reacted, so I jumped and no one was there. Got up to 31 which made me feel good that I could get above 30 on my own. Other than that just maintained 23 to 26 for the rest of the ride with a long spell at 18 at the turnaround. Not bad.

POW!

The weekend was full of cycling and I loved it. I got over 115 miles for the two days and felt great. Nice that the wife didn't mind so much, especially since I got home sunday before she even got out of bed. Just glad I was able to get to bed early enough to have enough zzz's before riding. I decided to skip monday's ride and recoup from the previous week, but the running bug got to me. So I went out that evening and put in a quick 2.5. Just enough to really get you sweaty.

The morning was no different. Talk about sweating. I was glad I had 3 water bottles for the ride. We had a nice little tailwind on the way out and the group wasn't too large. I sat at the back until going through the dip when I almost flew off the path. Just before the climb on the other side there is a small hump and you go over at an angle. Well if you are leaning too much, like I usually do, your backend gets airborn and scares the bejezzus out of you. Well today I had to do everything I could to stay on the path and thankfully I did and didn't cause anyone to crash behind me. A small gap formed as I was collecting myself after the near grassy experience. I got back on and then found myself heading toward the front rapidly. Woo, what's going on here? I am just maintaining pace and everyone else is dropping off? I guess so. Then I saw what was happening up front. Riders were starting to attack. The group did well and didn't panic. Just maintained pace and slowly brought back each escapee. But as soon as he was passed another would attack. Well if this keeps up I will be up there soon. Sure enough I was, but I really didn't attack, I just maintained 27, what 27! I didn't even realize we were going that fast. I kept an eye on the shadow I was casting and nothing was behind me. No help, so just keep going for as long as you can. As I neared the Luling bridge I said this is probably it for me. Looked back and still had about 50 meters but I am dying here. So I drop a couple of cogs and stand up waiting to be swept up by the group. Didn't do so bad as I was able to maintain 5th wheel and then eventually got to the front again before we turned for home. I felt pretty satisfied as we had left everyone strung out along the levee.

Heading for home was much more civil until POW! Holy shit was someone shot. John's tire blew big time. He ended up with a hole in the sidewall. Luckily Todd used an old race number of Randy's and placed it between the tube and tire. Good ole tyvek. That stuff is great in the winter for a chest warmer. We got started back up after leaving a pool of sweat on the levee and went at a very civilized pace 20-21. We gradually picked it up and caught up to a few guys that didn't wait but soft pedalled while the flat was being fixed. Then things got nasty. We had a little headwind and the pace continued to grow. 22-23 we had 6, 23-24 we had 4, 24-25 we had 2. Where is everyone? Finally Rob comes around but now we are doing 26 into the wind. Ouch, but at least there were 3 of us. We had a tight little rotation working and got a huge gap on the rest. I finally had enough when we reached the Huey P and shut myself down. Did I mention it was hot? Whew!

As usual... HOT

The dog days of summer are here. Yesterday's ride was at a civil pace and nice, but hot. Today was a little squirrelly and hot. On the way out no one seemed to be able to maintain a constant speed. Once the rotation dropped to about 6 riders everything was fine. Just when others tried to join in the mix, well it mixed it up. Anyway we had a good time on the ride razzing each other and cracking jokes. Made me feel pretty good that I could still laugh, carry on a conversation and maintain 23 to 25 without any problems.

We had lots of traffic to deal with today. Strange how somedays there are tons of people out on the levee then nobody is there. I guess some of the group can't handle the obsticles as well as others. Rest day tomorrow, hoping for rain to cool us off a bit here.

Hot and tough

I was actually early to the meeting area this morning and there all ready was a large group, so I pedalled through and decided to see if Robin was around the parking area. I needed to put a washer in my headset and he had the tools. He was in kind of a rush so I decided to forego the repair until after the ride. I picked up the pace and eventually caught up to Todd. We chatted for a bit then Rob and Matt came screamming by on their time trial bikes. No way let them go.

A few minutes later the group caught us and I decided to play it smart today and sit at the back for a while. It was kind of windy and I didn't mind not working too hard for a change. Well that all ended around the parish line. I got tired of watching the terrible way part of the group was trying to work a paceline at the front and decided to get in the mix. Things started working better and the pace increased. I was following Donald so everytime he started up the fast side I would slide over. Then I stepped on Charlie's toes alittle when he decided to get on Donald's wheel. I apologized but got no response from him. As soon as he got to the front he gapped the group. Fine go ahead, but everything broke down. People were everywhere, so I bridged up and we worked together until the dip. I don't like following people through there. Made it through unscathed and then we had Todd and VJ with us.

Things began to get tough. The pace upped to 26-27 from 24. I started to feel pretty drained but managed to hang on and occasionally pull through. I was glad to hang on with the leaders until the end this time without giving in to the insanity pace.

We started pack farily civil and seemed to have a headwind again, but the pace at 23 was reasonable. Had a decent number of people taking pulls and then there were 5, then 4, then 3, then 2, then noone and I was up front. I just held the pace at 23 and finally someone came through. Ok time for a break. I got back to where I could sit in and then observed why no one was going to the front to help out. Donald get's it in his mind sometimes that the pace should be what he would like it to be. If it is too fast well he will just sit on the back of the rotation and then everyone else will do the same. Fine, I'll sit here too for a while. Once we hit 20 I said this is enough and went around. Strong head wind, but I kept it around 22. Finally got some help and we made it back safely in a realitively quick outing.

Stopping at Robin's vehicle, I finally realized how freaking hot and tired I was. Thank you Robin for the bottle of water. The rest of the ride home was much more pleasant. I am still learning patience on the bike, but it feels satisfying to work your ass off in the process.

Wrong shorts

Well the ride went well but my package didn't turn out so well. I have to remember to not wear the shorts that are a little to big on the longer rides. the ole willie was rubbed raw this morning due to the rising temps and all the sweating I do on the bike. Thank goodness for Boudreaux's Buttpaste. This stuff works wonders and I wouldn't even be able to walk without it. The shower this morning was a new level of pain but I got through it. Time to buy some shorts that are the right size. Tired of this experience.

Humbled

I was ready for a steady fast ride this morning. Well that didn't happen. Surge here, bridge up there, catch your breath, attack and bridge. No rhythm today, just yoyo riding. that just hurts.

I was feeling it as we were about to turn around and eased up. I soft pedalled to the end, which was a mistake. I almost missed the boat for the return. As I dropped down and hit 27 to catch the group as they were passing under the Luling bridge. That hurt and we were going 24 for a little while. As I was talking with Matt we had a gap form and we had to hit it again to catch up. A small group of 3 went off the front and the rest continued at a reasonable pace. Then Paul jumped and I went with him. I was at 33 and still couldn't catch his wheel then as he caught the three he looks back at me and says "Just wanted to see if I could catch them". Crap a gap opened again and I had no gas left. The group then swallowed me up and hit the gas. As I was looking for somewhere to hide a few of the sitters wanted me in front of them. So I am out of the saddle trying to latch on again. By this time I am sweating buckets and am all over my bike. I had a bad feeling about what was coming. Sure enough more surges and then I was done with 8 miles to go. Uugh! Thankfully a few others were also and we made it back at a much easier pace.

Now I know to be more aware of what's going on and less worried about keeping the pace high. Sit in if I have to and be patient. I just may take a nap today at work. Always a good place to get some rest. HA!

Wet without rain

It's so humid now that your wet and it isn't even raining. Steamy and sticky can wrap up how the weather is down here now. We are in for a nasty summer, as usual.

Just a short jaunt today, 20. Got home early to take care of some chores before our party saturday. The wife has gone loopy and has me doing crazy chores around the house so everything will look perfect. Too perfect if you ask me. Got to show some faults to others or they don't think your real. Anyway it's number 40 for me and should be a good time. Looking forward to that first cold beer.

Wet with sweat

Didn't feel so hot this morning, but I was soaked to the bone after the ride. We encountered two flats, someone running off the road and a 10 mph crash. All in all still a good time. It maybe time to spilt the group up somewhat for safety reasons, especially on tuesdays. There seems to be alot of people showing up and most are just ones that want to hangon for a fast ride. If they get in the rotation they end up pushing themselves too much and make it dangerous for everyone else. I think I will try to get some to ride earlier perhaps and see what happens.

Getting back to the ride, the flat tires were times to really get the sweat going. As you stop by the roadside and your body has no other means to cool you but the sweat from your pores, it just comes out in buckets. When you are moving it doesn't seem so bad but I am sure I sweat just as much. The legs were spasing earlier today at work. I think I have finally caught up in my liquid consumption, but will continue to pore them down my throat throughout the evening.

I didn't see the guy get run off the road but it is in a bad area that many don't know how to handle. There is a short descent with a shicane at the bottom. The first corner has a small rise in it. The leaders need to be aware of the group and push through quickly then ease up some to let the rest come through unscathed. Well this doesn't seem to ever happen and today this guy got caught in the wrong place and had no where else to go but in the grass. He then got left behind as half the group sat up but the leaders kept on going. We had a hard chase after the gap had grown, but managed to latch on before things got to out of hand. Lot's of up and down surging so I am feeling kind of tired. The wife wants to run later this evening, so if we do I may not ride tomorrow to catch up on some zzzzsss.

Yawn

The eyelids were heavy this morning and have been for the last few days. Can't seem to get enough rest even when I am not doing anything. I am thinking it is my diet. I have lost some weight and now I think I need to be eating before all workouts and not just before the long ones.

We had a small group today and set out at a nice easy pace, no faster than 20. Perfect. I almost feel asleep at the back of the group. The road was mesmerrizing and a few times my eyelids did close as if I was to drift off in slumber. That changed on the way back. Noone was interested in heading home quickly so I went to the front and started doing 20. After a while I decided to let the next guy have a turn. He kept it at 20 to 21 and was slowly catching two tri guys that had gone around us. They went hard for a minute or two but we were slowly gaining back on them. Then John got to the front and he decided that we had to catch them. I just continued with my pace of 20 to 21 and let him go. He drifted back thinking we were having a hard time. Nah, go ahead.

He picked it up again and passed the two guys. We were still gaining on them and finally passed them a few minutes later and John had quit. So I decided to jump. I was at 26 for about half a mile and David came around me. I didn't think he felt like going hard but was glad to see him there. John had latched on also. Shortly after David came around he pulled off and then John quit, again. Pissed me off, so I took off and left everyone. I kept it around 25 to 26 for then next mile and got myself in a little oxygen debt but the ride was over. I stopped at the playground and spoke with Robin about a headset issue then softpeddaled with Joe the rest of the way home. I thought I was teaching someone a lesson today, but I instead taught myself to stick to my own gameplan of easy monday.

5 years

Today marks the 5th anniversary of Catherine and my marriage. We have had some bumpy rides, but we also have had some great times. I love this woman more and more each day. It has been a slow process of understanding each others quirks, but I enjoy seeing things continue to progress toward a better union of our marriage. I believe that she thinks I am off the deep end every now and then, and she is probably right, but I can always count on her to bring me back to reality. Without her I would be lost. I am always greatful for the time we share and will share. I love you Cat.

Only the first day of summer

Well I think summer arrived a month ago here in the Crescent City. It has been hot and will be for the next 3 months. Riding has been great with the addition of the new, used, Litespeed. I rode my first Giro on sunday in about two years. Had a great time! Ended up with 63 miles for the day then headed out to see the parents with the doggies.

The boyz always have a great time there and so do I. Only one problem was that Riley wouldn't rest and I ended up with very little sleep. So I was pretty tired yesterday and I believe it has continued today.

Got to visit with Wuzzer last night. Hadn't seen him or chatted for over a year. We had a good visit at the Bulldog whilst Tulane got their butt's kicked by Texas at the College World Series. I hope they can turn it around but they have a long rode to go.

Catherine and my 5th year anniversary is approaching. We celebrated at the Pelican Club in town this past saturday. Great food, service and atmosphere. It also helps to know the chef. Richard really did it up for us and I am very thankful for his hospitality. I hope I can return the favor in the future.

Is it really a day off

Went running yesterday morning instead of the normal ride, is that really a day off? We have to be having record highs. I only ran 4 miles and had swimming pools in my shoes when I was done.

Today we had a nice ride that was pretty swift. Had a few that sat at the front but wouldn't do much work until someone from 4 or 5 back would come around them, me. I did alot of work today at the front. It was fun but it did hurt occasionally. I had been wondering when I would feel better on the bike since getting back from our vacation. We ranged from 22-30 mph for the entire ride. A little to eratic for most and I think it took it's toll. We unfortunately had someone crash near the end of the ride. One guy just killed himself at the front then pulled off and quit and dropped like a stone. Others were coming fast and ended up hitting brakes which lead to a near pile up. Well one guy went down and looks like he broke his collarbone. Ouch! I only know this because I had stopped to change some tires at Robin's vehicle and the followers gave us the report. I hope he is all right and can get back up on the bike soon.

Arenberg maiden ride

I will sound like a broken record over the next few months, because it is damn hot. I thought I was melting out there. I rode a Litespeed, Arenberg, potential purchase from David if all goes well with the negotiating. Robin fitted me yesterday on it and boy what a difference to the clunker Lemond, Alpe du Heuz, I have. Shifted great, responded well, felt wonderful. Just hope David and I can come to an agreement.

Started out fast and stayed that way for the entire ride, except for the flat on the way back. Going out we were steady at 27-28, occasionally reaching 30. The group was large and I believe we didn't drop many. I was able to bridge gaps and hang on going out, but as we neared the turnaround I began to feel chills. Not good since we had another 23 miles to return home. I had finished half of my water and began to swig from the last bottle. I thought I would just hang on for the return. Then the flat.

Standing there a pool began to form at my feet. I looked around and noticed that no one else was having such a problem with their sweat so I decided to soft pedal and try to cool off before we strated hammering again. I was joined by three others and I thought about having us work together to see how long we could stay out front. Naaa, let's take it easy for as long as we can. I started to feel much better, then Todd came screaming through. I jumped on his wheel and he and I had an immediate gap. We worked well together for about 5 miles before I was wasted. The group caught us and I just sat on. We still kept up around 25-27 for the rest of the ride.

My legs actually feel pretty good right now but the rest of my body is not too happy with my antics this morning. The Arenberg pulled through with flying colors, so I think it's time to make a deal.

Sunburned

Whew! Saturday we avoided Arlene but she took the winds and any cooling effect north. Now it's just damn hot! Anytime the sun is out and I am in it, I just feel like my skin is burning. Am I just getting older or is the ozone really disappearing or disappeared? I think the later. Why can't we just try some alternative fuels. If all the oil was gone what would you do?

Sunday we finished our decorative patio out back and I believe the sun fried my brain. Still feeling light headed from it all, or maybe it's all the hard work the wife has me doing. Just got to keep on, so that new bike doesn't bring down the house when it arrives. I maybe living on the streets soon, but I am looking forward to a nicer ride than the Lemond.

Steammmy

Uuhg! Can't go outside these days without breaking a sweat. This morning was no different. I was, I thought, on time this morning and sure enough the group had all ready left. I then made up the 3/4 mile difference over the next 3 miles and I was drenched. I actually started to feel sick during the ride this morning. Fortunately it was at a reasonable pace and I made it home ok. A cloud covered the sun up and gave us some relief. I think if the sun had been out for the entire ride I may have wretched.

Weekend is looking to be pretty wet. Sucks for the super regional Tulane is hosting. Hopefully they can win early and send Rice packing. Stay away Arlene until the games are wrapped up.

Close call

After killing myself yesterday doing field work in the direct line of the sun and recovering from an awful headache yesterday, I almost killed myself and a few others on the ride this morning. So after a hard ride on tuesday and toating alot of weight around yesterday, I was feeling pretty tired this morning. I actually got out to the meeting area early so I decided to continue my warmup and rode a few extra miles before joining the group.

We started out smooth and it pretty much continued that way for most of the ride. But for some reason people were continuously yo-yoing for the ride. Since the pace was not insane and I was able to stay with the group it was just annoying that some couldn't keep the pace even. I guess this pissed me off as I pointed out a truck coming up the levee to cross our path, I kept up my pace and so did the truck. I really thought he was going to stop and he did so at the last minute when I snuck through. Everyone else was not so trusting, and I don't blame them, so they really slowed to a crawl. I caught alot of crap for that one. I had made eye contact with the guy, but he was the typical asshole truck driver we meet up with. Got to hurry up and wait for the frontend loader to fill him up.

No close calls after that until the end when I took off where we begin to shut it down and a mower was coming up the levee. I could see he was turning to head back down, but his wheels just skidded along the paved path and I had a head of steam approaching and no where to go. Thankfully he slammed on his brakes and yet again I appeared the idiot. Twice in one ride was too much for me. I need to pay more attention to what is happening all around rather than just in front of me.

A flat was a blessing

Whew! We were flying this morning. My legs felt like lead from last night's run. Had a hard time going out and got dropped at the dip. I was in a bad position and had been doing alot of work going out. After the rise I pulled off to let others through and they jumped. I couldn't get back on. I decided to take it easy so I would have something for the return.

I picked it up when Donald came by and a few others latched on. We were trading off pretty regularly. The group finally caught us and I managed to stay with the leaders and rotate through just as much as they were. Everyone was pretty drained and it made me feel good that I could maintain. There were some surges that put me into oxygen debt but I held on and was able to stay with the group. Then it happened "Flat!" Whew, a rest as we all eased up.

Once that was fixed we joined back up with everyone else and then another flat. Well this pretty much meant the ride was over. No one took off, just soft pedalled and we still made it home at a decent time. But I know I am really going to feel it later and I can see myself taking a nap after lunch today just to feel normal. Lesson learned, don't try to do to much after a run when you haven't been doing much in the first place.

Rain rain go away

Got pretty soaked on sunday and got dressed this morning for a ride and decided against it. Glad I did because it dumped again. Sucks getting your only pair of cycling shoes soaked. They seem to take forever to dry. This will just get me to do a good run tonight. I have started to pick up my running over the last two weeks and my legs are just getting used to it. Looking forward to October.

Mom had her birthday friday and she seems to be doing well. Her fevers have subsided and she is getting her energy back. I can't even begin to imagine having a disease that can effect your entire livihood. I am pulling for her and just want her to have a relaxing life. I believe relaxation is the key to longevity. Hope you can relate.

Vacation

Been a while since my last post, but I have the vacation blues. Traveled to the mountains in NC and had a blast with the wife and the doggies. The only problem was that I missed my bike. The roads were awesome for riding. Everytime we went for a drive, all I could think about was pedalling along. Man that sucked! It would have been great to go for a ride each morning. The weather was wonderful and the temperature was just right. Got to get back up there again and the next time a bike is coming with us.

We hooked up with some old friends in Atlanta and then again in Roanoke, VA. Had some great homebrew and far too many other beers over the 12 days. Time to detox and sweat out all the impurities. Not too difficult down here in the Big Easy where summer has all ready set in. Just walking out the door and you begin to sweat. Makes me want to look for a job up in the mountains.