Say Goodbye Good:

July is hot in the valley

2009-07-17T09:53:00.000-07:00

My last post was senseless knowledge, that probably made no impact on any ones life. This post will likely be similar.

I had my knee scoped on 7/1. This is my second surgery on my left knee sense 2004. The doctor was able to pull out two rather large pieces of floating cartilage, and cut a torn piece of my ACL. The recovery is coming along, but it has been depressing not being able to ride my bike for the past 6 or 8 weeks. Now that Le Tour is on it makes it even worse. I started PT last week and it seems to be going well. I ride bikes with some of the guys at PT so it makes it nicer knowing they want me back as soon as possible. I hope to be back for short rides next week.

Nothing really exciting has happened at the house lately. I'm still waiting on updates from Charlie on his progress. Ashley and I have decided in order to save a little extra money we are not going out for meals very much. It is obviously working, but I still crave some of the favorites every once and a while.

Work has obviously slowed down. I have been keeping my head down and keeping below the radar. I make nearly 30 phone calls a day looking for new jobs, and I hope it pays off here soon. It has been over 100 for the past week and it is really getting old. Erik's girlfriend Alex and Ashley made fun of Erik and I for commenting on the "Delta Breeze" last time we went to Sac. and let me tell you, I would give anything for a delta breeze right now.

I should get back to work. I'll let everyone know how the rehab is going in a few weeks.

Until then...

Interesting News

2009-05-14T08:47:00.000-07:00

I think I will write about Bermuda, after all I was born there. Did you know that Bermuda is only 20.6 sq. mi.? Bermuda is actually a cluster of 138 islands that were settled in 1612 by the British. I was born in the new capital City of Hamilton that lies in Pembroke Parish, not in Hamilton Parish as most would expect. My family and I traveled to Bermuda about five years ago and one of the guides joked that Bermuda only made two things in the islands: Rum, and babies... naturally in that order too. However, finance is the largest sector followed by tourism and an unemployment rate of -21%. That means they ship people over to work... not bad! The beaches in Bermuda are renowned for their pink sand, which actually comes from the coral off the coast along the reefs which surround the islands. Bermuda has the fifth oldest acting parliament in the world.

Bermuda's per-capita income is 50% higher then that of the United States. In 2007 Bermuda had a GDP of $5.85 billion, or $91,477 per-capita this gave Bermuda the highest GDP in the world. This becomes an issue because the average cost of a house was estimated in 2007 to cost $1.845 million although these figures have been disputed. The Bermuda Stock Exchange is now the largest fully electronic offshore securities market.

In July of 2005 the population was estimated at 65,365 wherein 54.8% were black and 34.1% were white.

I think that does it for today. But this is where I was born, and if you ever get a chance to visit I would take it. The island is small but it is a ton of fun. Don't forget that Bermuda also has the worlds smallest draw bridge too.

Until next time...

Weekend Racing

2009-02-16T15:47:00.000-08:00

Here are a few photos from this weekends race. I finished 7th in the Cat:3

Check out my sweet mustache...

Weekend

2009-02-13T09:27:00.001-08:00

This weekend marks the beginning of my race season. Not only are we doing two road races, but the weather is going to be horrific.

Ashley and I just had our six month anniversary yesterday. Thats a long time for me, and it is always exciting.

V-day is tomorrow and as luck or lack their of I will be out of town. Ashley is giving me crap, but she doesn't really mean it. We are planning on doing V-day stuff tonight, which will be really nice.

I hope everyone has a plesent weekend.

Until then...

Sunday

2009-01-12T09:55:00.000-08:00

Not our typical Sunday for sure. The only thing that was normal was breakfast at the Village Grill. Most Sundays we eat brunch, then lay in bed all day and read the paper. Yesterday we both had a lot of things to get done. Ashley just started school again, and she had a few things to get done prior to her going back today. Craig roped me into playing a little out door soccer with the boys and watching the AC Milan game at his house. Soccer was good, and the game was kind of a let down, however it was nice to see everyone and hang out with Craig. Ashley and I met back up and loaded up the car with her vac. and carpet cleaner. I finished painting the guest room, while she vacuumed, and shampooed the bedrooms. She did a fantastic job, and everything looks really good. I have a few things to still do in the guest room, but it will look really nice when it is finished.

This is off topic, because i know it says Sunday but Saturday was really nice. I went to Simi Valley with a few friends to ride my bike. The Simi ride is well known for being a very fast, hard ride. It didn't disappoint me. I cant wait till next week.

I hope everyone has a great week.

Until next time...

New Year

2009-01-07T09:43:00.000-08:00

I hadn't realized how long it had been sense I posted something on this. Sorry for keeping you out of the loop. I guess we can go month by month to catch up.

September:

September was my birthday month. Ashley came back from Georgia, and within a week I left for Chico. I went to my annual Chico road race. This year I was able to race with the pro's. I ended up getting 11th which wasn't all that bad after getting cramps. It was a very nice weekend all together, because I was able to spend time with old college buddies. Pat and Gareth were great to hang out with again. Thanks to Gareth I didn't have to sleep on the floor of my sisters place. It was kind of funny though how fast we all have grown up. G and I one night went out to see Pat for a while and ended up coming home around 10 because we were tired. I guess that's what happens when you have to get up in the morning and go to work.

October:

October was a lot of fun. I started a nightclub project, which actually ended up looking pretty cool. Ashley and I went to a great Halloween party in Wasco, and we took all the dogs to the pumpkin patch. Ashley and I carved our pumpkins and passed out candy, while drinking cocktails. It is hard for me to even remember what I did last week so excuse me if this is kind of vague.

November:

I really like Novembers. The leaves change in down town Bakersfield and the weather starts to get cold. The project is till running however I do not have a permit at this time, so Tom and I are doing everything we can to move forward without going too far to where we need a inspection. This goes on for a while. Ashley and I ended up making Thanksgiving for her father and grandmother, and just relaxed the entire day. My parents went up north to my aunt and uncles for a change. Everyone had a great dinner. Ashley and I are pretty good cooks, and we work well together in the house and kitchen.

December:

December was a crazy month for me. It was Ashley's birthday month... and believe me we started celebrating on the 1st through the 31st. I don't know how I managed it. My roommate left this month. Ashley and I went to Disney Land two weeks before Christmas and had a wonderful time. Ashley's birthday was great, I think she had a good time. Her hole family was their. Her mother even came up from LA, and her sister was in town from Georgia for the holidays. I hope she had a great December, she deserved it. The nightclub was completed on the 31st just in time for their New Years party. I was scared we weren't going to make the opening date, but somehow we managed to pull it off. Not bad for only having the permit for 3.5 weeks and having Christmas mess up my schedule. I also got a new road frame this month, which I am very excited about. The new bike is only 14 lbs. and is a screaming race machine. I will post a photo as soon as I can. My training was pretty much nonexistent, but I don't want to be in the same shape I was in last year at this time.

January:

Our New Years was very nice, pretty mellow and relaxing. Ashley, Atalie, Josh and I went to the cabin on the 1st and 2nd. The snow level was kind of higher then we thought, but we were able to take the Subaru up far enough to make snowmen, and go sledding. We hung out by the fire and watched the new Batman movie on Thursday. Josh and I made dinner for the girls, and went to bed around 9... haha. We took the long road home to Glenville and had Dinner at the pizza place before making it back home. Saturday Ashley had to work, and I prepared for a cyclocross race. The race on Sunday was pretty nice, but really hard. I ended up getting 3rd in the CAT3's which isn't bad, but I was disappointed. Ashley came out to watch which is always nice. She always says I did good, even if I think I did poor.

This month will be a lot of training and working hard. Ashley started school again and is in the process of getting a job in her field. I think this will really help her when she is looking for a permanent position. I plan on keeping 2009 up to date.

until then...

latest news

2008-10-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

Not much is going on in Bakersfield. Given the economic debacle we have found ourselves in, everything seems to be slowing down. I find is very interesting that our economy can be so irresponsible. My friend told me yesterday that California is applying for aid from the fed, because our budget is not enough to cary the 5th largest economy in the world! Does this mean that the 5th largest economy in the world is going to be bankrupt? I highly doubt it, but I have started to see the shock-wave created by the stock market. I haven't been able to really keep up on the latest information on the "bail out bill" but I am skeptical. What is this going to do to the U.S. dollar? How does this so called "bail out" help the people that can afford their mortgage payments, and were responsible with there fixed mortgages? Why do the people that couldn't afford a house and opted for a interest only loan only get a slap on the wrist, and a pat on the butt. If the economy is so screwed up, why not give the public money to infuse back into the economy. I personally would use that money to pay off school, pay off my house, and any other debt I might have, whereas most of the public would go shopping and waist it all on big screen TV's, and new cars. Consumers in the states are so hell bent on consuming goods that they don' think of the big picture. Yeah it would be nice to have a big screen TV but do I really need it... no. I just hope this recession doesn't last very long. Enough about the economy...

The past few weeks have been like a roller coaster, as one could imagine. With the passing of my grandfather about a month ago, and his service just two weeks ago, things have been better. I am very grateful to have such a strong family, and a special person in my life to keep me occupied. Ash and I went to a race last sunday in Costa Mesa and then spent some time in HB. We took all three of the dogs, and met her mother down south. I think everyone had a great time. I couldn't have been happier. The dogs had never been down south, and Ashley had never been to HB. We didn't really have time to shop around but we had lunch, and walked the dogs around. I really enjoy every minute I get to spend with her.

Well, everything else is great. Ashley and I are trying to figure out what we are going to do this weekend. She finally has Saturday and Sunday off, but we might just end up laying around all weekend. Either way, time spent with her is good time.

Until next time...

Its been a while

2008-09-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been able to post in a while, a lot has been going on in my life. Most recently my grandfather died suddenly of kidney failure, and it has taken some time to come to the realization that he will no longer be with us anymore. My grandfather and I were close, well as close as two people 60 years apart and 70 miles away can be. I have always admired my grandfather, ever sense I can remember. He used to own a brake shop in Visalia and I would go and work with him (more like dick around, and tinker). I am blessed to have had him in my life, and thankful that he and I are so alike. He had a way with words that is hard to describe. He was one of those men who didn't say much, but when he did you listened. He was also very, very funny. My favorite thing he told me when I was little was that "I should move up to Visalia because it is cooler up there... you know its farther away from the equator." He would say it so seriously, without any trace of sarcasm that you just had to look at him and laugh. We never really talked much about girls, but he was always interested in my job, and school, and definitely my dogs. My grandfather has always had a dog, as long as I can remember. One day we were coming back from the vet. with his dog Faucet (named because he drooled so much) in the back of the truck and we got pulled over. The officer said we were in violation of some stupid code (we were not allowed to have a dog un-leashed to the vehicle unless it was a farm animal), well if you have ever been to our ranch I think it is pretty hard to say that we don't live on a farm... THEY LIVE IN THE MIDDLE OF 70 FREAKING ACRES!!! Even after showing the stupid cop his identification with his address, the officer still wrote us a ticket. Needless to say my grandfather fought the ticket and won. He told me the judge looked at the officer and said "are you kidding!" and threw it out. My grandfather and I would were very similar, and we always had a blast together. I would help him on the ranch whenever I could. He taught me how to drive a tractor before I could even reach the peddles, and how to drive a forklift before that. I can remember when he first built his shop, and my dad and I were up helping him wire the lights. My dad is an electrician, and was wiring everything for him while my grandfather was holding the lights, all while standing in a bucket together 20 feet in the air, while I was operating the forklift at around age 5. I learned an endless amount of knowledge from him, just by watching him. He would work vigorously on everything (everything at the same time), it was as if he had 30 to 40 projects going at the same time. I think that was what kept him going for so long. I would always joke about what we would get him for Christmas. I would say "what do we get the man who has everything... I'll get him a busted up car, so he can fix it." He loved machinery, and loved making things work. I pray that my grandmother stays strong, and that we don't let her down. She has always been the glue in our family, while grandpa was the backbone. My grandmother is an amazing woman, and I hope she is able to move on from this. We love you very much.

Shall we talk cycling or relationship next...

Ashley came back a week ago from Georgia. He sister just had her baby; little Tristan. I told her that it was awfully nice of her to name him after my cousin. She had a great time with her sister and her husband. Ashley was able to visit her godchildren, and spend some time with her mother who was also visiting. I am glad she is back, two weeks wasn't too bad but I'm not going to sign up for it anytime soon. Ashley is so talented, intelligent, and hilarious it makes every minute with her better then the last. I am not one to normally let a woman cook for me, I grew up with my father cooking all the meals (my mom can make a mean Hot Pocket if you know what I mean), and recently Ashley has wanted to cook me dinner, so I agreed to let her... I think I will agree more often now. She is an amazing cook, we had chicken tacos on Sunday and lasagna last night. Oh, and she made a strawberry cake. I think it is safe to say that we will always eat very well. We are going to take a trip to the beach this Sunday. She wanted to visit the SLO mission, and do some shopping, so I think we better go before it gets too cold. It is very nice having someone in my life that makes me smile constantly, although my cheeks hurt a lot more then they used to.

Road season is officially over!! I just took my annual season ending trip to Chico for the last road race of the year. All in all I have to be very happy with my season. I had a few good results, no wins this year, but I acquired my CAT3 license which I am very happy about. Cyclocross starts for me in two weeks, and I can't wait to get muddy. My goal for this cross season is to get my CAT2 license. I think I should be able to if I race more then I did last season. I will keep everyone updated as the season progresses.

Until next time...

The past few weeks

2008-09-04T14:32:00.000-07:00

Have been a blessing. Ashley and I are doing really well, and my fitness has just started to come back. Last Saturday Ashley and I drove down to LA for dinner with her mother (and her new boyfriend). Her mother was very nice, and it was very easy to talk to her. Her boyfriend on the other hand was very strange, and it seemed like he was almost trying to get into our business. Nonetheless, we were in a rush to get her to LAX so we kind of had to dine and dash (but we did pay). Ashley's made it to Georgia just in time for her sisters baby to be born. She keeps telling me she is a great holder, but I have yet to determine if this is true or not. I guess Georgia is going to have a little rain this weekend so babe be careful. I can't wait for her to get back.

I will write more at home...

Well I wasn't able to write any at home, but I do have some news. Last night Ashley and I decided to have babies... Not the two of us, but Gabby. I am having a girl I met a few weeks ago come over with her bull dog tonight. Gabby is one lucky girl. We should be expecting puppies around christmas again. Ashley... you better help!

Until next time...

2008-08-21T07:29:00.000-07:00

I know a lot of people going through some rough times. I just pray that all of my friends stay safe and know that there are tons of people supporting them.

I can't help but admire some of my friends. Yes some are still living at home and lazy as all get out, but some are doing very well. Ashley and I had dinner at Craig and Sheri's last night, and I couldn't help but want what they had. Craig made some really good steak and chicken fajitas, and Sheri made rice, black beans, and strawberry shortcake. Thanks Craig for dinner, we really appreciate it.

After dinner last night we went to Atalie and Josh's house to check out their new tile. I really like it, and I think the design they plan on doing will look really classy. We hung out for a while (the girls made fun of me like always) but Ash and I were noticeably tired. I think I even through in a little head jolt or two.

Well I have to get back to work.

Until next time...

The Gift

2008-08-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

Some kind of a scene skin so soft so smooth and you so beautiful you so beautiful your smile and your laughter you move with me and you move me you move me you move me under the blankets in your bedroom I’ll keep you warm my hand on your shoulders your hair in my mouth so let’s just kiss and say merry Christmas let’s go for a drive and check out the lights let’s go for a drive into this night let’s cut down a tree let’s take all the trees and put ‘em in your house hey I thought you were sleeping hey I thought you were bleeding hey I thought you were needing me hey I thought you were bleeding hey I thought we could be you and me hey I thought we could be my hand on your head and a hand in my pocket and you a lit cigarette and a bottle of wine red wine for Christmas time don’t you love this life don’t you love this life I’ll do what I can I’ll sing you to sleep and if you wake up I’ll kiss you back to sleep and every morning I’ll love you more than the night before something about Christmas makes me love you more merry Christmas for all the christmas’ we missed I know this Christmas will be the first Christmas we kiss I thought you were sleeping hey I I thought you were bleeding hey I thought you were needing me hey I thought you were bleeding hey I thought we’d be leaving together hey I thought you could help me get through this merry Christmas baby every Christmas I’ll make you happy so merry Christmas for all the christmas’s we missed this Christmas will be the first Christmas we kiss under the blankets in your bedroom my lips on your neck and you so right.

Until next time...

Lucky Man

2008-08-13T07:35:00.000-07:00

Ashley and I are official. I couldn't be happier. You know how it is when you laugh so much your cheeks hurt, well Ashley makes me smile so much my cheeks hurt. I enjoy every moment I get to spend with her, because I am completely content. I think she is the perfect compliment of me, and it shows when we are together. Every morning I can't wait to hear her voice, and hold her tight.

Enough mushy stuff. But she is AMAZING.

I know no one wants to hear this, but my cycling schedule has picked up again this week. After talking to the Dr. I took a week and a half off, and started a four week build up. Last week was my first week back on the bike, but I only rode two days. This week I am riding every day but Friday with mixed intensities from painfully slow, to moderate pace. Yesterday was a moderate day, so Zac and I went out and did a few hard efforts but then just cruised home. It was really nice riding with someone, especially someone who I could talk to. I had a hard month in July, and it really took a tole on me physically and emotionally. I hope that this re-build will help me regain my form.

Well, Kevin and I are going to Sushi tonight at Tokyo and I can't wait. We haven't done that in a few weeks. I guess I better get to work.

Until next time...

Sunday

2008-08-04T07:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was amazing. Ashley and I took a drive to the beach for the day and cruised the central coast, from Moro Bay to Pismo Beach. Ashley had never been to the beaches in the central coast, so it was nice to show her places I went when I was a kid. In Moro Bay we walked on the beach next to Moro Rock, and Ashley decided to walk us right into the water and get our pants wet (oh well, it was just water). After the walk we had breakfast, and walked down the main drag and looked at a few shops. The weather couldn't have been better. It was clear, with a slight breeze, and probably in the mid 60's. We then proceeded to SLO (San Luis Obispo for those of you who don't know). It was a typical SLO Sunday, with people out and about, walking down town. We walked through a few more shops, and bought Gabby a new collar, and just checked out the town. We walked through the mission, and watched the kids play in the creek, while listening to some guy sing at a local pub. After lunch we drove to Pismo. It was a typical summer day in Pismo, with tons of people lined up on the sidewalks and not a single parking spot down town. Pismo was really nice. Ashley and I held each other while watching the guys surf and body board, then walked through a few more shops. I had a great day, actually a great weekend with her. It seems like I always have a smile on my face now, and I really like that. It is nice to be happy again. I hope everyone had a good weekend.

Until next time...

2008-07-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

It's thursday and of course I rode my bike this morning. I sure haven't been feeling well on the bike. It feels like I have nothing in the tank. I am really confused with my performance the past few weeks, and it is beginning to concern me. I am contemplating having blood work done to see if there is anything really wrong with me. I'm sure it is just fatigue. Needless to say I am not very happy with my performances the past few weeks and when that happens I end up training even harder to get over the bump.

I had my yearly review last night. I have never been very comfortable speaking to people (it took me five years to take my freshman speech class in college!!), and the owner of my company is no exception. The man has been like a father figure to me for six years. He let me work over Christmas breaks, summer vacation, and even Thanksgiving. I don't know why I get like this, but I hope it is something that will go away in time. All in all the meeting was ok by my standards. I spoke to my supervisor this morning about it and he thought it went well, but I am such a pessimist and therefore think it went like crap. The owner had a few good things to say, and a few things he wanted me to work on. I completely agreed with him and hope that the outcome is positive.

I think it is good for a person to reflect on there life and project into the future. Recently I have been thinking about who I have become, and who I would like to be in the next five or ten years. I have realized that I don't need to be so hard on myself. In the past 25 years I have accomplished a lot and reached some very high goals. I have pushed myself very hard to get where I am today, but did I really enjoy that time? College was one of the best experiences of my life. I came away with some great friends, great memories, and a hard earned B.S. in Engineering. I have survived my first full year in my new house, and have managed to reach a high personal goal on my bike. Although there has always been one thing missing from my life. Other then Gabby (my dog) I have not had any one to share these accomplishments with. Recently this has hit me very hard, and I have felt all alone. I have always said there is no hope for me, and put myself down, but I think there might be a light at the end of the tunnel for me. It could be a very very tinny light, but a light nonetheless. I need to think more positively, and set goals for the next five to ten years of my life. I think I would make a great father, and a great husband. Now if this happens in five or ten years I don't really know, but I hope so.

I better get back to work.

until next time...

One week Later

2008-07-21T07:45:00.000-07:00

This is kind of an update from last week. I am happy. Ashley and I have been hanging out, and getting to know one another. I have always been hesitant when it comes to meeting people. I think it has something to do with my past. However it is hard not to like a young, intelligent and attractive lady like Ashley. She is going to SF until Friday and that really sucks. Big Chuck look after her for me.

I think if there was one thing I would change about myself it would be my shyness. Some people might be thinking, "what is he talking about?!" But if I am in a new atmosphere I really shut down. I get really nervous, quiet, and pretty much become a hermit (I have been called a hermit before). Although once I get to know someone or, the atmosphere it is hard for me to shut up. I have been told I am just like my father when he was younger. My mother actually asked my Dad out, because he was shy. My mother is definitely not shy and it has definitely rubbed off on my father. I can already see it kind of waring off, I think because I am at the age where I really don't care what people think about me. That sounds kind of bad, but its true. I am who I am, and I don't need to change to fit in.

Until next time...

Sunday

2008-07-15T11:26:00.000-07:00

I have to say that it is nice seeing old friends. I went for coffee sunday morning and met a very beautiful young lady. Not only was she stunning but very driven and intelligent. It turns out that her best friend is dating an old friend of mine from middle school. Needless to say Josh and I had about 10 years to catch up on, while the girls talked about us behind our backs. After coffee we all went house hunting for Josh. It took me back to when I was looking for my place. I'm glad that is over. The entire day was nice though. We had a late lunch and hung out until about 8 at Josh's parents house (who by the way are very cool). I hope everything went ok, and I wasn't to out there. We are going to meet again tomorrow for dinner and a movie. Wish me luck.

Until next time...

June

2008-06-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

Its been a while. June is a weird month in the valley. For one the "June Bugs" are out. I'm not a big fan of this bug. I really don't know what it does, or who eats it. It has been hot, however with all the fires up north the cloud of smoke over my town has actually kept the temperature about 10 degrees cooler. This doesn't mean that my electricity bill will be any less, but it is much nicer.

I have officially started to manage my own projects, and it is a little nerve racking. I know I can do it, but it is just the doing it and proving to everyone that I can, that's daunting. I will be starting another job next week, and taking over a third in a few weeks. Finally everything is coming together.

I just bought a new softball bat, and last night was the first game with it. Everyone seemed to like it. It felt really good and I was able to get two singles and a triple. Not bad for the first day in action i guess.

Oh... Last weekend I rode my bike from Bakersfield to Camp Nelson. The trip took 8 hours, and we climbed about 12,000 vertical feet. We rode to Woody, up to Glenville, through Sugarloaf and over Portuguese pass. Down the back side to the Great Divide highway, up to the walk of 100 giants, and then to Ponderosa. Everything was great until the Great Divide. It was the hottest day of the summer so far, and there was no place to hide from the sun. One of the guys had a road temp. of 129 and I wouldn't doubt it. Once we got to the walk of 100 giants, we were way past civilization, and people were looking at us like we were from outer space. Once we arrived at the Ponderosa bar, nothing was on our minds more then shots of whiskey, and the nine mile decent into Camp Nelson. There were tons of touring motorcyclist at the bar, and all they could do was stare and say "you came from where?!?!" and "Are you crazy!!". My only response was, "yes, and I cant wait to get off this bike". The decent was amazing, and very fast. When we got to Camp Nelson we went to the cabin and then I went to meet my dad at our camp site. It had been a while sense I had been up there and forgot that there was a nasty climb from Camp Nelson to our camp site (about 700 vertical feet). Needless to say the ride was epic, and fishing the next day just toped it off.

I think I'd better get back. I will write soon, I promise.

Until then...

Lake Tahoe

2008-05-27T13:40:00.000-07:00

I have never really been to Lake Tahoe, but over the weekend (Thursday through Monday) I had the best time. Craig had his bachelor party at his families house in South Lake Tahoe. Well there place isn't really in South Lake but about five miles past the California-Nevada border on the Nevada side.

The trip was filled of memories from years gone past. Craig invited 10 of his really good friends, and we proceeded to reminisce and get absolutely hammered. Needless to say everyone made it back safe, and believe it or not no one was thrown in jail. This was a weekend I will never forget. Here are some photos of the weekend.

Until next time...

Phenomenon

2008-05-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

I went to a Dodger game last night. It was a great game, it was nice that we won as well. While sitting with some great friends, I started to wonder where the "wave" was actually started, and when? You know, the wave that normally starts in the bleachers and makes it's way around the stadium numerous times before eventually fading out. Around the 5th inning the wave began. Always slow and weak, yet it never fails to pick up speed, and eventually the entire stadium is mesmerized by the wave. LA was beautiful, with a slight breeze and just cool enough for a sweatshirt. The game was great, and the company was awesome. Thanks for a wonderful night.

Until next time...

Living in the valley

2008-05-16T10:24:00.000-07:00

Most people think of California as this big cost with lots of ocean and hot girls. We do have plenty of hot girls (most of them bitchy) and plenty of beaches, however what most people don't realize is that California has every possible landscape in the world. We have desserts, beaches, mountains, and valleys. I find it funny when I travel that people in our own country think of all Californians as either from LA, SD, or SF. My reason for writing this is to mainly complain about the heat which is about to hit the valley of California. It can reach temperatures of 115 degrees here, and it has started! Today the temperature is going to hit 100! Most of my friends from college are lucky enough to live in places not prone to massive heat. Even in the capital they get a delta breeze (what I would give for a delta breeze). Last night the dogs ended up sleeping on my bed, with not one but two fans on full blast. The ceiling fan of course was getting it on, while the floor fan was pointed directly at the bed/Henry. I guess he's not so dumb after all.

I have a theory when it comes the the weather: You can only take so much off; but you can always put more on.

Needless to say, I am not a fan of the heat. Pants and a sweatshirt are my favorite things to wear. For heavens sakes I only own one pair of shorts.

I think living up north is in my future. Somewhere near the cost. I hope everyone has a great weekend.

I am riding "The Bear" tomorrow for the first time (nastiest hill in over 200 miles). I will let everyone know how it goes, or doesn't.

Until then...

CA, State Championships

2008-05-12T07:40:00.000-07:00

Well the big weekend has come and gone. I will keep this short. I soloed for half a lap and tried to make everyone nervous (it worked). I was in great position and had a great chance of taking the win, when I was told that I had a flat tire on the second lap. Needless to say it took about a minute to fix and by then my chances where done. However, we did have four other guys in the lead group. I finished the race and found out that our team took the win. Mike Hutson went on an attach with about a mile to go and the group wasn't able to catch him. The team played there cards very well. We had numbers and strong ones at that. Congratulations Mike and the AIAGE Cycling team.

Until next time...

Marriage

2008-05-08T09:21:00.001-07:00

Many of us have been to weddings, and many of us have had friends or family members take the leap. In two weeks one of my best friends is getting married. Craig and I have known each other sense the 6th grade. We didn't meet up again until high school our sophomore year. One of the first times we hung out was on a three mile soccer worm up. Craig and I cut a corner and the coach found out. I don't think we really got in trouble, but it sucked. Craig has always had to be the father in his house. His parents split up before I knew him, and he has had to be both the big brother, and the father figure. I look back on what he has accomplished and it makes me proud to be able to call him my friend. He is now a CPA (crazy guy), and is damn good if I might say so. He bought a house at 24, has two dogs, and a great family. It is time for the kid to take the next step. He is marrying his long time sweetheart Sheri. Congrats to the both of you. I don't know anyone our age that is in love as much as the two of you.

Next weekend we are going to Tahoe for a few days to have his bachelor party. I have seen the guest list, and I am scared. I think Craig and I are the only ones that have professional jobs other then school, and boozing. Tahoe is going to be a blast. I can't wait to relax at the house, and be with good friends.

Well Craigy, it was a long haul and its been fun. I wish you and the new family all the best.

We love you man.

Until next time...

Spoof of Charlie's Specialized blog

2008-05-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

Specialized is a company that makes bike's of all kinds and parts of endless proportion. Why is it there name is specialized? Everyone knows the meaning of specialized. It seems to me that their name should be changed to Broad, or Everything. The make everything from bikes, to helmets. They make shoes, and socks. They even make bottle cages, computers, and pumps.

A friend and I talked to the "Specialized" Rep. a while ago and asked him to change the name. He laughed and told us he would look into it. Next time you are at a bike shop, check out all the accessories, and equipment that Specialize produces. They are becoming a monopoly in the bike industry.

Note to anyone who is looking to buy a bike (and take my advise, I bought a hole lot of name), the brand of a bike is just that. A branding. 99% of all bike frames are made in Asian countries. A Specialized is nothing more then a US developed, Asian made bike. So too are almost every other brand of bike. Buy a bike that has a good parts group and a frame geometry that you are comfortable with.

That was way off topic.

I should have something random for you soon.

Until then...

Chico, CA

2008-05-05T08:36:00.001-07:00

I took last Friday off and went back to where I went to college. I left Thursday night and got to Chico around 9:00. If you know anything about Chico it is that the parties are crazy. I don't really know if the town ever stops partying. I was able to get a hold of my really good friend G Wort. who is one of the coolest guys around. G took us to a party and showed me what it was like to be back in college again. We didn't end up going home until 3ish. I can't remember the last time I stayed up past 12, let a lone 3!!

Friday was a packed day. I offered to show my bosses son around the campus, and give him a brief history lesson about the city, and the school. We were able to get a lot done, and even went to the student store to get some souvenirs. We finished up at school before noon, and headed to a alumni golf tournament. Golfing was great! I saw a bunch of old classmates, and the kid was able to talk to faculty and alum. We didn't win, but that was expected. We had a few great shots, and a few hard shots. Needless to say, after golf we were pretty tired. That night my sister took us to a house party. I don't remember house parties being so lame! I think it was just the people because they were all really young.

Saturday came, and I went for a bike ride. Every time you are in Chico, you have to ride Honeyrun Rd. It is the most amazing ride in California. I was able to do the loop and be back at the meeting spot for the group by 8. I then went on the group ride thru some flat farm land. I was able to put in 60 miles before 10 which was very nice. We then went to a soccer pickup game. A bunch of alumni came back for the pickup and a party later that night. Soccer was great. It was nice kicking the ball around with the boys again, and talking a little crap. After soccer we went to see BIG CHUCK. We went to our favorite lunch spot, and then went to the bike shop to get his new bike set up. We were able to get everything dialed in and the bike is looking really good. I can't wait to go and visit him (and the bike). Charlie had to take off and go back home, so we said our good byes and went on our way. If there is another thing you know about Chico it is that Sierra Nevada beer is made in Chico. I called a my friend Erik how was in town for the night and we decided to go eat at the brewery. The food was great and the eye candy was phenomenal.

I see a problem here though. The candy was more like a carrot dangling over a 26 year olds head. It was high school prom, and about 50 beautiful young ladies were in the dining room, wearing very provocative clothing. Have you noticed how mature young women look these days. It is almost ridiculous. None the less one or two of the girls caught us looking at them, and I almost felt like that old gray hair in the bar that is drooling all over himself. At least I wasn't the only one though. We looked around the room and all the men were doing the same thing.

After dinner we went to a soccer party. This was the kids highlight of the weekend I think. There were girls, and more girls, and really cool guys just wanting to have a good time. Flip cup was on store for the crowd, and it looked fun. I did not partake in the festivities... someone has to be responsible. I had a great time though, there was plenty to look at, and a bunch of people came up and talked to me. Good friends, and conversation, there isn't much more you can ask for.

Sunday morning I went on the local cycling ride again. I wanted to flex my legs and give the locals something to think about. I climbed a road called Neal in the big ring all the way to the top. There was only one guy that was able to hang, but if we were racing it would have been different. I was on a time constraint and had to get back to town so I turned back to town with a very nice guy who used to be a pro Mt. Biker. Dan flew down the hill, while I knew I could catch him on the rolling sections, and eventually did. We cruised back to town and stopped at the coffee shop to chat with the locals. It was a great time.

The worst par of the trip was coming home. Not only was I leaving a place that I love, but it took me 6 hours to get home. Not really something you want to do after all of this activity. I'm home again, and everything is good. The dogs missed me, and it is nice to be back at the house. I slept great last night in my bed and cant wait to get back in it tonight. I hope everyone had a great weekend, and stayed out of trouble.

State Championships are next weekend... I will let you know how everything goes.

Until then.

Back Problem

2008-04-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was in a pretty nasty crash. I ended up going over the handle bars in a race I was at and landed right on my back. I went to the Doctor last week because the pain wasn't getting any better. Today I went to get some x-rays done, but it took forever to get approved by the insurance company to actually get them. I wonder if there is a home remedy for back pain. I hear Sombra works well. I thought my page needed more things to look at, so I am going to post a picture of our Europe trip two years ago.

Enjoy,

Thanks to Charlie

2008-04-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

Charlie,

This is some kind of debauchery you have gotten me into. Remember in college when you would not start a myspace page? Well blogging has always been that thing I never wanted to do. My girlfriend in college made me my myspace account (which I never use anymore), and about three months ago I looked into Facebook. I had seen a few articles about it in the news and wanted to see what it was about. Needless to say I have only been to the site three times since the inception of my "face page". I wonder if this is going to turn into the same thing.

PS. Charlie here is a photo of your new frame. Hope you like it.