Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Slip, sliding away...
Disclaimer: I hereby apologize for any damage which my bike and I may have inflicted upon the trails this morning. It was not done with any malicious intent. It was done for the sake of enjoyment and entertainment. Portions of this blog or disclaimer may not be used without the express written consent of this blog author.
I've pondered all day trying to figure out what to title this post. I've also tried to come up with a way to eloquently describe the riding conditions at the Cove this morning. I can try to put it into words, and I hope that my readers can get an idea of what I'm saying. Paula, Laura and I met at 10 this morning for a ride at the Cove. I had ridden Christmas Day and knew that the trails were muddy. I'm not sure what you'd call the weather that I woke to. It was like a heavy dew?!? I don't know. Weird, 60 degrees on December 28th? We're all going to die of some dreaded plague at this rate. Don't get me wrong, I like 60's; but I like them when it's appropriate. I want my winter in winter, spring in spring, etc.
Anyway. We set out to ride our normal course - Songbird, Arrowhead, Schoolhouse, Little Bell, Forest (I agree with Brian now, nothing Enchanted about it), Comet. Songbird was the first hint that it was going to be a slick ride. The muck has gotten muckier since Christmas Day. It was much like trying to pedal through well peanut butter (thanks for that comparison Paula). Many times back wheels were sliding off the trail or into ruts. There were many mud puddles to splash through. Soon the tires were packed with mud thereby creating an even less traction. It was actually pretty funny, but added much resistance to pedaling. If you ride a bike trainer, you know how you can pedal sometimes and the back wheel slips over the roller. Imagine doing that over and over again as you inch uphill.
Paula was out on her maiden voyage on Clarence (a new, Gary Fisher Rig 29'er SS - congrats!) so pictures were take before, during and after the ride. I've sent them to her, so that she can show off her new ride. I had to stop at one point because I bottomed out the front shock again. So I took a few pictures before tinkering with the Reba in hopes of having it function halfway correctly. It sucks when you can't go over obstacles or trust that it's going to work in a turn. I guess I should have just brought my SS, but I didn't feel like I could do very well on it in the mud. Alas , it was another reserved ride down Songbird and an agonizing, slow and annoying ride up Arrowhead for me. I was growing more and more frustrated with my bike, but I wasn't going to ruin the entire day. I tried a log hop - CLANK CLANK, ow my hands. Tried a creek crossing - CLANK, stop. Decided to walk to the rest of the creek crossings. I waded right through one with my new shoes - dry feet! YAY! I tinkered with the shock again and clanked my way down Arrowhead - not much fun with barely any front suspension. Maybe I'll go buy a rigid fork - at least I can't screw that up. Argh - that's what's most irritating about the shock. I didn't do anything to cause this! It was fine one day then 12 days later it's barely functional. WTH?!?!?
So we had a great ride - Paula was showing some skills - jumping logs, catching air, pitching the bike left/right/left with ease. She looked very comfortable on her new ride. After riding the creek crossings on Songbird, and nearly soaking myself completely on the last one, we had to get up the mucky, hill to the end. This was like riding in wet cement. Once we crossed onto Little Bell I was tempted to try some logs, but decided against it as I didn't want to damage the guts of the fork. It's probably as bad as it's going to get, but why risk it. Decided to ride out by Forest and Comet. I think it was Forest where we really got sucked into some thinck mud. I put my bike in granny gear and spun my bike wheel like a station wagon going up an icy hill. I was literally laughing as I rode then found myself hoping Laura wasn't directly behind me. OOPS. I think it was also on Forest that we found the unexpected mudholes filled with water. We eased our way through them then guilt began to set in about riding on the trails when they are so wet. By now we'd been riding a while. We exited by Comet - which used to be a good trail. I hate this one section now as it's such a mess - no good line and mud ruts. Then, there is this place where they tried to improve the trail but really made it worse. Just don't like it right now, but it still beats the fireroad.
Anyway really enjoyed being out and about today. It was good to have people to ride with. Thanks for riding P & L. Hopefully we can have more regular rides now that the holidays are over. Anyway, ride was fun, mud was good - tastes gross, less filling. I had to stop at the local car wash on the way home to rid Ritchey of his extra coating. I couldn't stand to see it anymore. NO, I DID NOT SPRAY DIRECTLY ON THE BIKE, so don't worry there. Hopefully he dries out ok. I'll check on him tomorrow after work.
Good night. =)
I've pondered all day trying to figure out what to title this post. I've also tried to come up with a way to eloquently describe the riding conditions at the Cove this morning. I can try to put it into words, and I hope that my readers can get an idea of what I'm saying. Paula, Laura and I met at 10 this morning for a ride at the Cove. I had ridden Christmas Day and knew that the trails were muddy. I'm not sure what you'd call the weather that I woke to. It was like a heavy dew?!? I don't know. Weird, 60 degrees on December 28th? We're all going to die of some dreaded plague at this rate. Don't get me wrong, I like 60's; but I like them when it's appropriate. I want my winter in winter, spring in spring, etc.
Anyway. We set out to ride our normal course - Songbird, Arrowhead, Schoolhouse, Little Bell, Forest (I agree with Brian now, nothing Enchanted about it), Comet. Songbird was the first hint that it was going to be a slick ride. The muck has gotten muckier since Christmas Day. It was much like trying to pedal through well peanut butter (thanks for that comparison Paula). Many times back wheels were sliding off the trail or into ruts. There were many mud puddles to splash through. Soon the tires were packed with mud thereby creating an even less traction. It was actually pretty funny, but added much resistance to pedaling. If you ride a bike trainer, you know how you can pedal sometimes and the back wheel slips over the roller. Imagine doing that over and over again as you inch uphill.
Paula was out on her maiden voyage on Clarence (a new, Gary Fisher Rig 29'er SS - congrats!) so pictures were take before, during and after the ride. I've sent them to her, so that she can show off her new ride. I had to stop at one point because I bottomed out the front shock again. So I took a few pictures before tinkering with the Reba in hopes of having it function halfway correctly. It sucks when you can't go over obstacles or trust that it's going to work in a turn. I guess I should have just brought my SS, but I didn't feel like I could do very well on it in the mud. Alas , it was another reserved ride down Songbird and an agonizing, slow and annoying ride up Arrowhead for me. I was growing more and more frustrated with my bike, but I wasn't going to ruin the entire day. I tried a log hop - CLANK CLANK, ow my hands. Tried a creek crossing - CLANK, stop. Decided to walk to the rest of the creek crossings. I waded right through one with my new shoes - dry feet! YAY! I tinkered with the shock again and clanked my way down Arrowhead - not much fun with barely any front suspension. Maybe I'll go buy a rigid fork - at least I can't screw that up. Argh - that's what's most irritating about the shock. I didn't do anything to cause this! It was fine one day then 12 days later it's barely functional. WTH?!?!?
So we had a great ride - Paula was showing some skills - jumping logs, catching air, pitching the bike left/right/left with ease. She looked very comfortable on her new ride. After riding the creek crossings on Songbird, and nearly soaking myself completely on the last one, we had to get up the mucky, hill to the end. This was like riding in wet cement. Once we crossed onto Little Bell I was tempted to try some logs, but decided against it as I didn't want to damage the guts of the fork. It's probably as bad as it's going to get, but why risk it. Decided to ride out by Forest and Comet. I think it was Forest where we really got sucked into some thinck mud. I put my bike in granny gear and spun my bike wheel like a station wagon going up an icy hill. I was literally laughing as I rode then found myself hoping Laura wasn't directly behind me. OOPS. I think it was also on Forest that we found the unexpected mudholes filled with water. We eased our way through them then guilt began to set in about riding on the trails when they are so wet. By now we'd been riding a while. We exited by Comet - which used to be a good trail. I hate this one section now as it's such a mess - no good line and mud ruts. Then, there is this place where they tried to improve the trail but really made it worse. Just don't like it right now, but it still beats the fireroad.
Anyway really enjoyed being out and about today. It was good to have people to ride with. Thanks for riding P & L. Hopefully we can have more regular rides now that the holidays are over. Anyway, ride was fun, mud was good - tastes gross, less filling. I had to stop at the local car wash on the way home to rid Ritchey of his extra coating. I couldn't stand to see it anymore. NO, I DID NOT SPRAY DIRECTLY ON THE BIKE, so don't worry there. Hopefully he dries out ok. I'll check on him tomorrow after work.
Good night. =)
Saturday, December 27, 2008
It's no wonder we don't know how to dress....
For those non-locals who read my blog, these two cities are separated by about 50 miles. I love finding goofs on the internet and signs....
Thursday, December 25, 2008
It's 56°F on Christmas Day. What to do? GO RIDE!
After opening presents, eating breakfast, playing with the new Wii Fit, I headed out to Carvin's Cove for a nice solo bike ride.I had a suspicion that the gates at the boat dock would be locked when I arrived, but I hoped that I could just find a spot to pull off to the side of the road. Sure enough there's a nice off road spot just down from the no parking sign. HA! I noticed two other cars parked in similar fashion, so I felt relatively safe leaving mine there on the roadside. I didn't figure a cop was going to drive 2.5 miles down a dead-end road on Christmas without a purpose, so I parked. I got out and was preparing to ride when another biker exited the Cove. I greeted him as he pedaled off up the road. I got my stuff out, decided what to wear and headed out down the fireroad. I was cruising right along trying to figure out what if any adjustments needed to be made to my cleat placement (the right one needs to be moved back slightly, I think). I was comfortable riding today, so I didn't mess with them.
Once I got to Schoolhouse, I decided to get rid of my jacket, so I stuffed it into itself and rode on. Everything that was frozen a few weeks ago was good and thawed today. The rain recently created some good mud holes. You could feel the tires getting sucked in and of course there were some very slick spots. I literally spun the back tire on a few occassions as I pedaled up and over stuff. I can tell I've not ridden in a while. My energy level and cardio is poor. My zeal for obstacles is not what it was in September. I got to the first water crossing on Schoolhouse and did great despite my front fork bottoming out. I continued on and rode fairly well on Schoolhouse. I did see one other biker near the picnic table. As I exited Little Bell a while later, I saw two more bikers.
I rode part of Forest, but it was very muddy and icky that I decided to skip the second half and take the fireroad to Songbird. Songbird is a nice trail when it's dry, but if it's wet like today it's a PITA. The mud just sucks you in and it feels like you're doing twice as much work. None the less I was having a ball. It's been a long time since I rode Songbird. I had to put my foot down in the water on the crossing near the log, but since I have these excellent shoes, my feet stayed dry and warm. I stopped at the rocks to take a few pictures. On the zoomy, downhill I pretty much just took my time and enjoyed being out. I was afraid to push the bike too fast with the slick trails and the questionnable fork.
After finishing up Songbird, I didn't think it was a good idea to try Arrowhead with the trail conditions, my crappy endurance and the bike troubles, so I took Little Bell and Schoolhouse back to the fireroad. I ended up stopping near the picnic table on Schoolhouse and putting air into my shock. I guess that's what I'll have to do for now. I need to take it to the shop soon and let them deal with it yet again. I'm glad I can singlehandedly keep them in business.
I really enjoyed the beautiful day today. I love the Cove, I love my bike despite it's issues and I really love my new shoes! I hope everyone had an enjoyable Christmas - I'm going to go enjoy the rest of it, so I can go back to work tomorrow! BYE!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Finally, a patrol ride. =)
Well two months since my last bike patrol, I finally found my way back to Mill Mountain. I feel terrible for my lack of activity recently, but I've been so busy with work, call, the holidays, family stuff and going to the gym. When the weather has been nice enough to ride, I've had something else planned; and when I've had time to ride, the weather has been crappy. I have a new bike light that has yet to be used and I am anxiously awaiting new shoes to keep my toes toasty. I hope that 2009 will allow me more time to ride.
I headed out this morning despite the rain last night. I parked at Riversedge then headed up Mill Mtn via Walnut Ave and Sylvan. I took my time and was quickly forced into Granny gear due to my lack of riding time. Monument Trail is covered in leaves. Wet, soggy leaves. I didn't do so bad on riding it, but did stop on a few occassions to rest. No need to rush or risk injury. I couldn't ride any faster if I wanted too. Glad it's December and not time for racing! I slipped on a tree root near the top of the trail and nearly crashed, but luckily did not. Enjoyed the downhill part (carefully) then headed to the Star by way of Ridgeline Trail. Again, slowly ascended the trail. Rode the right hand switchback easily. Once I got to the end of the singletrack, the grassy area sucked. There was more mud to suck you in.
Stopped at the overlook to take a few pictures then took a nature break before heading back down. Went down the old road where I passed two ladies out walking with a dog. It was a curly-haired retriever. Pretty cool looking dog, very friendly - I'd never seen this breed before. I headed out Big Sunny where I stopped to take the following picture - one of these days I'd like to catch one of the helicopters inbound from this spot. It was funny today because I could see my car in the distance.
After getting rolling again, I felt really good on the bike. Took Big Sunny to Riser. Riser to Ridgeline. As I descended Ridgeline, I knew I had a problem with my fork. It kept "topping" out - metal on metal - bang, bang, bang. UGH - I forgot to check the fork since it's been so friggin cold. I stopped a few times along Ridgeline to move stuff off of the trail. My back wheel slid out and was nearly beside me one time. It was cool to catch the bike and stay upright again. Once I got to the road at the end of Ridgeline, I flipped the bike over to adjust the rebound rate to turtle and then locked the shock out for the rest of my ride. Locking it out was good and bad. It kept it from banging its guts together, but I think it messed the lock out up again as it doesn't work at all now.
Anyway - rode down Woodthrush and took the new Virginia Pine as far as it goes. Ran across evidence of paintballers then found them a short while later. They were having fun. As I got to the "end" I turned around and headed back up. If I had had a paintball gun I could have wiped out the last guy as I could see him creeping around the trees. Virginia Pine is a nice trail with some nice features along it's way. I need to figure out where it comes out as I had no clue. I turned around and went back the way I came. Once back on Woodthrush I tried to keep my weight back and off of the fork to prevent causing further damage. I crossed both of the bridges safely. The second is new to me and is very nice. Not nearly as dangerous at the first.
Finished my ride by taking the Roanoke River Greenway back to the parking lot. It was cold and windy along side the river. It had been strange on the mountain as on Monument I barely noticed the wind. As I crossed the road onto Ridgeline the first time the wind was vicious. At the Star it wasn't too bad, but the old road, Big Sunny and Riser it was windy. Woodthrush not so much. Weird.
Once I got home, I tried fixing the shock outside. I added air to + and - ends. It created a rigid fork?!?!? I ended up putting the bike away until I could shower then bring it inside. I re-aired the shock completely per the recommendations for my weight. It seems to have it's bounce back, but now as I said above the lockout doesn't work at all again. SIGH - this is the second time the lockout has quit working. Oh well, at least I got to ride and at least Ritchey is bouncy again for now.
I headed out this morning despite the rain last night. I parked at Riversedge then headed up Mill Mtn via Walnut Ave and Sylvan. I took my time and was quickly forced into Granny gear due to my lack of riding time. Monument Trail is covered in leaves. Wet, soggy leaves. I didn't do so bad on riding it, but did stop on a few occassions to rest. No need to rush or risk injury. I couldn't ride any faster if I wanted too. Glad it's December and not time for racing! I slipped on a tree root near the top of the trail and nearly crashed, but luckily did not. Enjoyed the downhill part (carefully) then headed to the Star by way of Ridgeline Trail. Again, slowly ascended the trail. Rode the right hand switchback easily. Once I got to the end of the singletrack, the grassy area sucked. There was more mud to suck you in.
Stopped at the overlook to take a few pictures then took a nature break before heading back down. Went down the old road where I passed two ladies out walking with a dog. It was a curly-haired retriever. Pretty cool looking dog, very friendly - I'd never seen this breed before. I headed out Big Sunny where I stopped to take the following picture - one of these days I'd like to catch one of the helicopters inbound from this spot. It was funny today because I could see my car in the distance.
After getting rolling again, I felt really good on the bike. Took Big Sunny to Riser. Riser to Ridgeline. As I descended Ridgeline, I knew I had a problem with my fork. It kept "topping" out - metal on metal - bang, bang, bang. UGH - I forgot to check the fork since it's been so friggin cold. I stopped a few times along Ridgeline to move stuff off of the trail. My back wheel slid out and was nearly beside me one time. It was cool to catch the bike and stay upright again. Once I got to the road at the end of Ridgeline, I flipped the bike over to adjust the rebound rate to turtle and then locked the shock out for the rest of my ride. Locking it out was good and bad. It kept it from banging its guts together, but I think it messed the lock out up again as it doesn't work at all now.
Anyway - rode down Woodthrush and took the new Virginia Pine as far as it goes. Ran across evidence of paintballers then found them a short while later. They were having fun. As I got to the "end" I turned around and headed back up. If I had had a paintball gun I could have wiped out the last guy as I could see him creeping around the trees. Virginia Pine is a nice trail with some nice features along it's way. I need to figure out where it comes out as I had no clue. I turned around and went back the way I came. Once back on Woodthrush I tried to keep my weight back and off of the fork to prevent causing further damage. I crossed both of the bridges safely. The second is new to me and is very nice. Not nearly as dangerous at the first.
Finished my ride by taking the Roanoke River Greenway back to the parking lot. It was cold and windy along side the river. It had been strange on the mountain as on Monument I barely noticed the wind. As I crossed the road onto Ridgeline the first time the wind was vicious. At the Star it wasn't too bad, but the old road, Big Sunny and Riser it was windy. Woodthrush not so much. Weird.
Once I got home, I tried fixing the shock outside. I added air to + and - ends. It created a rigid fork?!?!? I ended up putting the bike away until I could shower then bring it inside. I re-aired the shock completely per the recommendations for my weight. It seems to have it's bounce back, but now as I said above the lockout doesn't work at all again. SIGH - this is the second time the lockout has quit working. Oh well, at least I got to ride and at least Ritchey is bouncy again for now.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
What was I thinking???
The first training session at the gym every week is "leg" day, so I'm not quite sure what got into me tonight. Maybe it was the guilt from the tons of food I ate all weekend. Maybe it was the rain or maybe I've just lost my friggin mind. I went to the gym early and decided to run on the dreadmill, yes I call it the dreadmill. I had plenty of time, so I started off with a casual walk/jog. Decided to run a bit, so off I went. Run, run, run. Slowed down, walked for a bit, then run, run, run, run, run. I was actually enjoying the music in my iPod and was distracted watching something on Oprah. I thought I'd run for twenty minutes then go do something else like the elliptical or rowing machine, but I felt good at twenty so I kept going. At thirty minutes, I noticed I was doing pretty good mileage wise. Still feeling froggy, I decided to finish out a 5k which is 3.1 miles. Towards the end of it, I was running almost all out. I ended up finishing the run in 40:25 which is slower than I used to run, but it felt damn good for not having run in a long time and especially not running that long on the dreadmill. I am typically slower on the dreadmill than outdoors, so I felt really good about my effort.
Once I stretched out some post run, it was time to get tortured. Of course, we had to do some squats and pop squats. This was soon followed by leg extensions done as 21's. Moved from there to "pulsed, walking lunges" with a 20# barbell. I was dying!!! Anyway, the rest of the workout went great. I love the gym. I'm looking forward to tomorrow. Have a good night. Perhaps Ritchey's tires will meet dirt/mud and gravel again this weekend. I'm liking the proximity to the boatdock now. =)
Once I stretched out some post run, it was time to get tortured. Of course, we had to do some squats and pop squats. This was soon followed by leg extensions done as 21's. Moved from there to "pulsed, walking lunges" with a 20# barbell. I was dying!!! Anyway, the rest of the workout went great. I love the gym. I'm looking forward to tomorrow. Have a good night. Perhaps Ritchey's tires will meet dirt/mud and gravel again this weekend. I'm liking the proximity to the boatdock now. =)
Sunday, December 14, 2008
ACK!
Ok, so I overslept today - was really tired. Woke up with a sore throat which eventually went away. For those two reasons I decided to skip my ride today. I did go outside and put up the rest of my Christmas decorations then took my dog for a walk. I also decided to spend more money on me! If I can keep my feet warm, I'm willing to ride all winter. I've tried various layers and types of socks and shoe covers between last winter and thusfar this year. I decided to just bite the bullet and invest in some winter riding shoes. Now I know people like Michigan and her friend Oldmanandhisbike, who's blog I also follow are probably laughing their asses off at me. The Virginia girl has to buy shoes to tolerate the mild winter here. Sorry folks, but I get cold feet in the middle of the summer. It's horrible and alters my mood substantially. I've discovered marvelously warm Gore Windstopper Gloves and Jackets that keep me cozy, so now I've got a new item on the way.
Pearl Izumi Barrier GTX. We shall see how they work out for my pedal popsicles.
Pearl Izumi Barrier GTX. We shall see how they work out for my pedal popsicles.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
So what if it's 29°F, I've got time to ride!!!
I hurried out to the Cove this morning to sneak in a ride. Went to the boat dock side of the Cove since time wasn't too free today. I had just enough time to sneak in a short ride. I am really glad it's December because it was almost difficult at times today! Not technical wise, but pedaling wise. I've been off the bike for a while and cardio on ellipticals, treadmills and the bike trainer are just not the same. Anyway, I really enjoyed my jaunt from the boat dock to the picnic table on Schoolhouse and back. I got in about 9 miles of riding in about 1hr 15minutes. Took some pictures while out today. It was funny as there was ice in places and a lot of frozen mud. Saw a few deer, but no other wildlife. Only encountered one other human. He was hiking in as I was leaving. It was cold enough today that the security dude only came to the door to look at my pass. I didn't get out either. I just held it up to the window. HA! I guess he had more sense than me. I am going to try to get a patrol ride in tomorrow on Mill Mtn. Time will be limited too as we're going to Thomas Road Baptist Church in Lynchburg for a Christmas program.
I've decided my next bike accessory will be boots of some type for riding. I was comfortable today with the exception of my toes being ice cubes. I had on regular bike socks with wool socks over top.
I've decided my next bike accessory will be boots of some type for riding. I was comfortable today with the exception of my toes being ice cubes. I had on regular bike socks with wool socks over top.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Christmas Meme
This came from Blue Country Magic, who borrowed it from RoanokeRNR, who invited people to take it. I thought it looked like fun so here goes....
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?
Depends on the item and the purpose. I've been known to wrap some stuff in some evil ways! MUH HA HA!
2. Real tree or Artificial?
Artificial - trees should remain in nature not my living room. Too many are wasted each year.
3. When do you put up the tree?
Around the first week of December.
4. When do you take the tree down?
Week after Christmas, but definitely by Jan 1st.
5. Do you like egg nog?
No, good grief - I'm the most picky eater on earth.
6. Favorite gift received as a child?
Probably a bicycle or Elmo, not the modern red dude, but a monkey which was my favorite childhood toy.
7. Hardest person to buy for?
My Mom - she buys everything before you have a chance.
8. Easiest person to buy for?
My Dad - he doesn't ever want anything.
9. Do you have a nativity scene?
Yes.
10. Mail or e-mail Christmas cards?
Oh probably a few email ones this year.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received?
None really. Most are given for a good reason and you should be grateful to receive anything.
12. Favorite Christmas movie?
Frosty - until he melts away...
13. When do you start shopping?
Uh...mid December if then
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?
I don't think so.
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?
Did you miss the part where I said I'm picky?
16. Lights on the tree?
For sure! I like colored lights and white lights. Depends on my mood.
17. Favorite Christmas song?
O' Holy Night & Joy to the World, traditional; Santa Train by Patty Loveless, more recently; Mariah Carey's Christmas album is my favorite
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home?
At home. I work in healthcare, so time off to travel is nearly impossible. Also, all of my family is local.
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer?
Probably not...
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning?
Christmas morning unless I have to work then we've done Christmas Eve or later Christmas Day
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year?
That it gets shoved down your throat before Thanksgiving is even acknowledged, and that it is has gotten to be so commercialized.
23. Favorite ornament theme or color?
I used to do a tree of all Hallmark Miniature Ornaments.
24. Favorite Christmas memory?
Oh I don't know... I loved being a kid on Christmas morning and unwrapping presents with my brother then heading to Washington DC to see my Aunt, Uncle and cousins.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year?
Oh wow, that's a deep question - I'd like to see the economy improve, people not to lose their jobs, a cure for cancer... ... ...
Ok, now that I did this, who else will do a list?!?! Come on, let's see if we can spread Christmas thoughts this way. =)
HO HO HO!
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?
Depends on the item and the purpose. I've been known to wrap some stuff in some evil ways! MUH HA HA!
2. Real tree or Artificial?
Artificial - trees should remain in nature not my living room. Too many are wasted each year.
3. When do you put up the tree?
Around the first week of December.
4. When do you take the tree down?
Week after Christmas, but definitely by Jan 1st.
5. Do you like egg nog?
No, good grief - I'm the most picky eater on earth.
6. Favorite gift received as a child?
Probably a bicycle or Elmo, not the modern red dude, but a monkey which was my favorite childhood toy.
7. Hardest person to buy for?
My Mom - she buys everything before you have a chance.
8. Easiest person to buy for?
My Dad - he doesn't ever want anything.
9. Do you have a nativity scene?
Yes.
10. Mail or e-mail Christmas cards?
Oh probably a few email ones this year.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received?
None really. Most are given for a good reason and you should be grateful to receive anything.
12. Favorite Christmas movie?
Frosty - until he melts away...
13. When do you start shopping?
Uh...mid December if then
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?
I don't think so.
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?
Did you miss the part where I said I'm picky?
16. Lights on the tree?
For sure! I like colored lights and white lights. Depends on my mood.
17. Favorite Christmas song?
O' Holy Night & Joy to the World, traditional; Santa Train by Patty Loveless, more recently; Mariah Carey's Christmas album is my favorite
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home?
At home. I work in healthcare, so time off to travel is nearly impossible. Also, all of my family is local.
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer?
Probably not...
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning?
Christmas morning unless I have to work then we've done Christmas Eve or later Christmas Day
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year?
That it gets shoved down your throat before Thanksgiving is even acknowledged, and that it is has gotten to be so commercialized.
23. Favorite ornament theme or color?
I used to do a tree of all Hallmark Miniature Ornaments.
24. Favorite Christmas memory?
Oh I don't know... I loved being a kid on Christmas morning and unwrapping presents with my brother then heading to Washington DC to see my Aunt, Uncle and cousins.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year?
Oh wow, that's a deep question - I'd like to see the economy improve, people not to lose their jobs, a cure for cancer... ... ...
Ok, now that I did this, who else will do a list?!?! Come on, let's see if we can spread Christmas thoughts this way. =)
HO HO HO!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Monday, December 8, 2008
Ritchey is a jinx...
Recall the last time I took Ritchey to work with me thinking I might get in a ride. Well today, I was to work 7-330p and purposefully scheduled my gym day on Tuesday. I was hoping to get out on time, and get in an hour ride before sunset. The only glitch is that I was on call. As luck would have it, for only the 2nd time in 2 years, I got called in. Well, as it was I never left the building. 16 straight hours of work. BAH Humbug. So now, I've arrived home, Ritchey will spend a 2nd night in the Jeep - I'm too tired to pull him out and put him away. I have to go to bed soon, as I get to go back to work in a mere 8 hours... YAWN!
Friday, December 5, 2008
Brrrrrrrr....
Not adjusting to the cold well at all this year. Two Christmas parades in two nights. Friday's (Salem) was about 33 degrees. No wind where I was, but it was a damp 33 degrees. I need to try to ride soon, but no rush. The holidays have me pretty busy, but maybe soon I'll sneak out on the bike. I should look very similar to how I did tonight:
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Don't ever give up... It's Jimmy V Week on ESPN 12/3-12/9
Inspirational man right here folks: Jim Valvano. Visit the homepage of his foundation for cancer research.
You Mother... nature
Why does it have to be windy or raining every friggin weekend??? Especially this Sunday. This was going to be my day to ride. We'll see if the forecast changes...
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