A permanent on the Bike?

my report:
I was going to check out a permanent route that I put together. A permanent is like a brevet, only except anyone any organize ,and you can ride anytime. But , it only count for RUSA credit, not ACP (got everyone confused?:rolleyes:) I decided to sleep and only do the part I was not familar with, which would give me 100K/62M for the day.. I rode down to Riverside, Crossed the Santa ana, and went by the [URL="http://www.missioninn.com/"]Mission inn[/URL]. I cam to a corner that I usually turn at. I decided to straight. I thought it would be flat , but I went down, and what goes down must come up. As in a mile of 10% grade. Such fun!:o I got to the top pf the hiil, and watched Riverside's own version of Rolling thunder. No pics:(
I went back down the hill and spent the next 10 miles on Victoria Street. IF you find yourself in Riverside with a bike, you should do this, It starts in a Victorian Neighborhood, and becomes a parkway line with Orange Groves and a Median filled with Palms and roses:




I wound through some neighborhoods and found one of my controls, a Circle K:

I then crossed the Santa Ana again , and turned on a side road. My route goes up the main road, but The house grow faster than the roads do, si It hough may be i should see what this road was like. It had an unusual name:

and with a name like that, what's across the road?


I didn't stop by for free samples. Oh Darn!
I made a loop around Ontario airport and cam back home for lunch at noon with 70 miles. I decided that I felt pretty good, so I got the bike back out and did another 30 miles (bascially the same route I did Friday) to get 100 miles in:)

San Dimas Canyon and memory and Cactus

Now , don't tell i'm the only one who rode today.
Once again, I was inspired By Pook's riding in the 'hood and the Cactus thread on Team Estrogen
I set off to do one of favorite rides - San Dimas canyon. I pedal through Upland and found some pretty[URL="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_Jacaranda"] Jacaranda[/URL] trees in full flower, but the photos didn't come out.
I stopped in San Dimas to shoot an impressive wild cactus. then pedaled into the entrance to the canyon:


Hard to believe that you're only 5 miles from the LA mess, isn't it?
up through some switchbacks and then to a view of the flood control reservoir:


There is a monument to cyclist who rode off the edge of a cliff. it always gets to me. He was riding a recumbent for the first time and lost it around a curve. what make it difficult for me , was I on the road that day. I remember exchanging waves with him. A firefighter stopped and we talked about him and the canyon in general


here's the Fire station. I turned around and started home
I photographed some more cacti in Claremont and headed home


my place is in the background of the first, down Red Hill. I only wish I could live up there
34 miles. pace: who cares?

Happy Jack or Bust!

I was rather anxious about this brevet. It was a long drive, and I was
stretching my budget to accommodate it. I had also only done 304 miles
this month
I drove out to camp Verde. We started at a dude ranch. I had to camp
out- Bringing my own tent. I got there about 4:30 set up my tent, went
back into town to get something to eat, listened to a
Paris-Brest-Paris presentation and went to bed. We started at 4:00 AM
, and I was going to wake up at 3:00.
My Cell Phone went off, and I got ready and had breakfast. The first ½
mile was on a dirt road. One of the other riders wiped out in front
of me. I noticed my bike was my making a strange noise. Turns out, my
front brake was rubbing. I really couldn't see well enough to fix it,
so I released it and pedaled on to a Convenience Store by I-17. A
mechanic who was doing support of the 600 K help me get going, but it
cost me about a half hour. The sun soon came out, and we pedaled into
Cottonwood and began climbing into Sedona. Out first checkpoint was
there, and I made it with 15 minutes to spare. I was on my again , and
I was riding with about two other rides, who were doing the 600K to
the Grand Canyon. We were riding on 89A through Oak Glen Canyon. Very
pretty ride, but we had fallen so far behind that we had deal with
"tourist trap" traffic. I almost became a hood ornament too many
times. We also wound doing about a mile of 11% grade up the
switchbacks. I was debating whether to turn around or press on. I had
spoken with Spokewench from Team Estrogen – she lives in Flagstaff –
about riding together from the second checkpoint. I had told her
10:30. I actually got there at 12:00. To make matters worse, the
cutoff time was 11:00. I had tried to call the RBA, but got voice
mail. I also got Spokewench's answering machine.
I could have doublebacked on 89A, but that was an experience I didn't
want to repeat. I also assumed I was already DNF (which turned out to
be wrong). I decided that if I cut out the descent into Pine, and
climb back out, I should be OK. I had a couple of Hot dogs, and bid
adieu to my new friends
I proceeded down Lake Mary Road . I saw lost of riders heading the
other way, Finally, I ran into a lady riding a pink and black Giant –
we both turned around. Spokewench had a friend with her and we rode
together for little while . Great fun to actually meet and chat with
someone face to face.
I made to the next checkpoint at Mormon Lake only 30 minutes late. I
had an ice cream bar (because I felt like it!) and a candy bar, and
pressed on. At this point I was begging to succumb to the "distance
riding is 90 % mental" rule. I was riding to just to get back, and not
to enjoy the ride. It was a very lonely road. I think it even beats
Homey's Vineyard Canyon
I made to the fourth checkpoint only 15 minutes late – I was
improving, but it was 5:30. all the customers thought I was nuts. I
had a brownie, and mixed up some more Perpetum. At the junction of 87
and 260, I made made my choice, back down to Camp Verde. I found that
actually being on the final leg helped me tremendously. That, and the
15 mile of 6% grade. Downhill I turned off the main road, and headed
back to the ranch. There was one section 15-20% grade that I walked –
I was pretty pooped at that point. Two riders from Utah caught me, and
we rode in together. Susan , The RBA, told me that coming into
checkpoints late was Ok. - so maybe I should have gone on. But, I had
a feeling the midnight deadline was ironclad, and I would have been
pushing to to do that – so I'm happy I did what I did. The other
riders and I chatted for a while before going to bed. I was also
surprised to see my buddies from the 600K. one of them had a Atrial
fibrillation. so they decided to DNF together.
I woke up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom, and came
back to ranch pooch(mutt Dog) in my sleeping bag!
Sunday morning we went and fed the Buffalo, and I left to drive back to LA.
A great ride. Granted I did DNF, but that's part of the package called
Randoneurring.

and it came to pass...

I've been writing as a hobby, I find find it relaxing, Granted I had to make room for it (I'm sorta ignoring my Java), but I enjoy it.
I've been doing some research on another possible work o' fiction. with out giving away too much of my plot, part of it is set in the past in Utah(this may change to Nevada, Hey. it's MY book!). So I've decided to read the book of Mormon.
"And it came to pass" appears about 1,00 times - Mark Twain had great fun with it. as far it being gospel or fiction , well let say I'm also from Missouri. I'm not convinced yet
"The author labored to give his words and phrases the quaint, old-fashioned sound and structure of our King James's translation of the Scriptures. . . Whenever he found his speech growing too modern--which was about every sentence or two--he ladled in a few such Scriptural phrases as "exceeding sore," "and it came to pass," etc., and made things satisfactory again. "And it came to pass" was his pet. If he had left that out, his Bible would have been only a pamphlet" - Mark Twain - Roughing It

when nothing beats something

You may have noticed that I haven't posted in a while. As you can guess from my title, I've been pretty busy and was trying to find some veg-out time. I'm still debating what to do , but I may drop of out of th R-12 challenge. I'm also debating dropping my Java class, but I'm keeping at the that for the future. I actually got back into writing fiction and a making progress.
I think we're incalculated that busy = good. It's hard for us to turn off and let go

what you want versus what you need

I thin we get theses confused. I was think about this in regards in to my bicycle hobby. I have a bike in the shop right now,. It's ready to go, but I 'm not going to pick it up until tomorrow. Wound using the funds for bicycle repair for car repair. and It was late getting the work,done. probably could do a whole series of post of providence.
As you may, I have been experimenting with Ultra Distance riding. and I seem to be stuck at 300K. I could travel further to do a 400k, but having a mega stress job mean I need some time to relax. I even have another fiction project brewing, but I have not typed a word yet. And I feel I need to, but don't want to sit behind a keyboard 24/7. At Least I get a break from my class

I am a worm....

It's from Psalm 22. I alway laugh when we read it, even thought I am sure it's wasn't the author intent when he wrote it. Or maybe it was. I always enjoy the Psalms with imagery provided By the author.

New exercises

MY car battery died , so I had to walk home from albertson's. Guess I won't be riding tomorrow.

Three more days.

Actually lent ended today, but I 'll keep on going until Saturday.
I went to Maunday Thursday services, at time I wanted it it to be over- I guess I'm used to the simplicity of Calvinsim. Reminded me that we see as just "fluff", some folk may deem important. The trick is where draw the line in our common lives

long days

I'm not going to type much, as it seems like every waking moment, h'm staring at a computer screen. I may need to cut down on surfing time, as I'm feeling very one dimensional. Thankfully, I've got a week to go until I'm out of the blog of the day zone. It's been fun and i appreciate writing

Doing the necessary stuff...

I had to take my Cannondale Road bike for service. I wouldn't do it, as it my favorite bike, but It needed to be worked> I can ride my Bike Friday, but it's not as nice, but maybe I need to ride some more more.
A lot of time we focus on things we think we have to do, like work (get way in the way of the brevets!), but still, we need to do these things in order to keep going, The real trick is to find the joy in them. Granted it's not an easy task, but would you rather be happy than be a grouch?

another month

well, I managed to do my job and my boss job today.
I lead the Java group, and we actually got one new person. Yeah!
Didn;t good so good with the snck machine at work, but managed to avoid sodas

A brick of a day

A brick is when you combine two workouts. Today in addition to my church stuff, I did a Twenty mile ride and then went for a hike with the Sierra Club. In addition to church and confirmation class. It's been rel busy, more than I wanted (note to self: don't overbook)

riding

had to lead the short club ride, It was a fairly small turnout. I had none lady was a bit slower, but we hung together and had 22 miles before we knew it. Hung around the coffee shop for bit, then took off. I wen two block, and head a loud "bang" My rear tube went and blew the tire off the rim I took me a while to get the tire soon on my way. I climbed part of th way up Mt. Baldy, and then went and visited a pretty park in La Verne (I didn't see Shirley, though ) we talking on the train about some trees that are bloom right now. I thought from a a distance that they were pink dogwoods, Well, it turn out they weren't Sorry, I didn't have my camera. I then headed home with 63 more miles than when I left

well, I did n't want to do that ride anway.

Due to work , I won't be doing the 400Ok. At least at San Luis Obispso, Still debating what to do next. I could drive up to Davis or Santa Cruz, or out to Phoenix, but with the cost of gas, that may not be wise.
The Good news I do get to spend easter here.
As I said before, lif is usually improvisation, I'm not sure how I'll make lemonade out of this yet.

Taking it slow

One of the thing I've been doing is reading a chapter of the bible at a time. I've actually read it cover to cover three times. The last time , I did it in a year. I thought I was reading to be reading that time, so I slowed, Also, I usually started at Matthew rather than Genesis, since It think the slog through Deuteronomy and Leviticus has doomed many an attempt to read the entire bible. I'm in Deuteronomy. The typical passed is "If your has trampled you neighbor's filed of wheat, bring the priest three perfect doves or one goat, unless it was field of oats..." So on for about 200 pages.
What got me to thinking, is that too often, we want the "good Stuff" with doing the hard work needed to cash, whether it be learning the Jewish law and it failed before we get to the amazing grace, or the 200 miles, 12,00 feet bicycle to get a medal from France. a lot a times life is slog is a slog through drudgery, but if we stop, we can always find the hidden beauty.

well, I'm officaly insane!

I sent in my registration for the 400K tonight. I still cant believe I did it. It ' probably going to take 24, provided I don't DNF. Yes, I've been looking at Bail points. part of like about Rando riding is it is a blend of mental and physical fitness. yes, I know bike racing is too, but I'm way too slow for that.
On another crazy topic, I've got a week to go before easter. so far, I failed miserably with Potato chips, and the purple wristband broke. I am managing to keep with the blog for my audience.Yeah!
I think it show that some time you have to try something, even if you know you're going to fall on your face. If you read the right books and have faith, someone will always be there to catch you when you fall (yes, I also like Science Fiction, especially Babylon 5).

Making time for what counts

So how do that? I wanted to update my parish's e-mail list with some info, but blew it, and the list appeared in in box. A lot of tome , we have to figure what it's important and what's not. I 'm still looking at signing up for a monstrously long ride the Saturday before Easter. any other Sunday would be fine (I could pretend I'm orthodox,and celebrate a week later)
I'm still working reply to my new friend, the crazy professor (I Didn't read my new copy of sojourners so I could read his reply) I'm working on "the insane programmer replies to the crazy professor".

Missed a day

I meant to write something about the crazy professor, but time slipped away... I'll get to it.
Taught my java class and came early with a sinus infection, we made it thorugh one book! yeah! and aside from my nose, I feel great!

The longest ride

The longest Ride
Saturday, I did a 300K brevet, That's 190 miles. The longest ride I've ever done.
I drove up to Morro Bay and checked into my Room. When I unpacked I discovered that I had left my reflective vest at home. You're supposed to wear one while riding at dark, and the ride started at 4AM. I went back to San Luis Obipso to look for , but had no luck. I decided to show up and at least do the ride as a “pirate”.
I woke up at 3 and drove to Cayucos . The RBA (Regional brevet Administrator, was fine with t Reflectivity provided by my jacket and Camelbak . At 4, we took off, I rode briefly with my Friend , Bernie Barge. Bernie is planning in doing RAAM (Race Across America) this year, and need to get some training in. We passed Harmony and turned off the Coast highway and began the climb into Paso Robles. About halfway up, a dense fog enveloped us. It was challenging enough ascending, but coming down was another matter. I pretty much rode the rode the white line all the way in to “Paso” . I got into Paso Robles at 7, rode through town, and was soon on my way to San Miguel over some very rough rodes. I wonder if MODot(Missouri Department of Transportation) instead of Caltrans(California's equivalent ). They had been paved with very Coarse chip seal – a MoDOT specialty. I went by the out skirts of San Miguel, and turned onto Vineyard Canyon road. If you've been on Foxen Canyon, Vineyard Canyon is Foxen's Big brother . it's twice as long (about 25 miles) with a lot steeper and longer climb at the end. By This time I was “Tail End Charlene”. Despite it's name, Vineyards has no wineries. It's most truck farms. At one point I found I was riding with both eyes closed. I wasn't sure what was a matter. I though that maybe I did not get enough sleep. I stopped several times and felt better. Bernie Passed me coming back right before the steep hill. I got over the hill, crossed the San Andreas Fault and was at the first control in Parkfield(67 miles). Parkfield is a lodge, Tavern and Earthquake research center. I snacked on some food I brought with me before starting back. I went back over the big climb (hiking part of the way). and started the descent . I ran in to the same problem with my eyes. I laid down for a minute, but the Highway Patrol wondered by and interrupted. I Finally decided that I was have an allergic reaction to the crops. I got off off Vineyard and onto the “Show me” pavement. By this time a Stiff headwind had developed. I had also not bee eating enough. It took about an hour to do the eight miles from San Miguel to Paso Robles. I stopped at an AM/PM Convenience store(mile 100), and had a big Gator, Queen Sized Payday,and a humongous Burrito. I know you're not supposed to have food with lots of Corn Syrup in Endurance events, but I need some fast energy. as it looked like I was going to battling the headwind on climb up and over the coast range. I had decided that if I reached the intersection of 46 and PCH (highway 1)(mile 120), I would press on the ragged point inn by 5, I would press on, otherwise I would had back to Cayucos. I got there at 5:10PM. The winds had let up, but I begging to regret the burrito After some struggling, I decided to see how long it would take me to get to San Simeon, about 12 Miles up the road. I ran into Kevin and Bernie on the outskirts of San Simeon at 5:43. The burrito and Gatoraid diet was begging to pay off! They urged me to press on. Shortly after that , I had a flat. I quickly got it changed, and soon on my, way, I guess I had forgotten how ling it was up to the ragged point. At one point, I cried a little bit. I did a little better with my energy gel and drinks. The Ragged point Inn is a four star hotel that sit on a 300 foot cliff overlooking the pacific. There about a mile long climb from Sea Level to get there. I get there at 7:30. had some more food. I also drank a “Real” coke, and mixed up some more perpetuem, and was back on the road at 8:00. I was begging to rebound. all of the land between Ragged Point and San Simeon is still owned by the Hearst estate, So it was just me, the cows , the occasional car, and the waves crashing on shore. A wonderful experience. I kept better track of my fueling, and it paid off. Kevin was out keeping track of me. I finally got back in a little after 10:15. Kevin and Kathy left me have plenty of Pepsi and cold Pizza. Kevin said I had gotten several complements of lighting, and he was surprised How fast I made back from the Ragged point. I pointed out that the terrain had a lot to do with that. He wondered if you be crazy enough to do the 400k in two weeks (250 miles in 27 hours)

I blogged in the morning and...

Well , I'm getting ready to head up to Morro Bay despite the fact that I could spend the day here cleaning. Actually , I lke cleaning, it just seems like I 'm constantly overbooked, Guess I need to find a to balance work and life....

That Still small voice

You ever had a voice in your head that reminds you of something? well today , I heard it. I was debating meeting the bicycle gang for dinner, They only problem was that I had park my car at a different station if wanted to. I decided against it to save money, but then forgot to bring along my lunch, so I wound up spending the money anyway.
When I've done scripture readings, I've wound more often than not getting the "still Small voice" (1 Kings19) passage. I think it's that God, (and life's most meaningful moments) come in not in the thundering cymbals and clanging gongs, but in the still small moments. The trick is overcoming societal conditioning that says we should ignore it....

Don'r agree with me? You must be a retardo!

I got think about this from reading thing from people that essentially say "people who believe in god are idiots". Which misses that point that a lot of the world is still open to interpretation. I can't say that my way is right, and say Osama Bin Lauden is wrong. It's just too often we've become accustomed to seeing "proof", without questioning it's "proofiense", to coin a word. I was think about reading claims for energy gels and drinks. They usually say "We're the greatest, and you'll bonk if you use brand X" Then you read the proof , it's written for someone with a Ph.D. in nutrition. Maybe I need to write "Sports Nutrition for Dummies". I'm also thinking of the news of the Anglican communion, which seems to be coming apart, because no one wants to meet in the middle, which, ironically, is what I like the most about my parish.
Of course, the trick is where to draw the line. I sort of alluded to this yesterday. I'm not holding out hope in the "get it now" world

Teacher or Helper

Benn conflicted. As you may know, I am teaching a Java group. The class has been asking for my code examples before they do the homework. I can understand wanting to see code that does what you're supposed to, but at the same time I don't want to turn them into Code monkeys. I may just give them a partial example to one exercise.
Benn packing for the 300K this weekend, It looks like I'm going to wear the same outfit for every brevet this year. It does handle a range of temps quite well.
I finished the Bruce Bawer book, quite a a good read, He's arguing that we should limit " religious" expression when it impinges on individual rights. A Slippery slope indeed. But, it some that we , as a society must manage. How do we accommodate other cultures, while at the same integrating them in to European cultures and values? Maybe we should go back to living in caves. Now, If can get myself involved with Lorna Doone

When an abstract is concrete

I'm having fun with My Java Group. I think we finally got them over the concrete and abstracts. and the door locked!
Bicycling not much going on there. Looking forward (with Dread?) to Saturday

taking it easy

I decide not to do a mega-mileage ride today. I pretty much did San Dimas canyon. Which is good, since it is one of my favorite rides.
I did my usual stops of Church and comfrimand's class. Still happy with my decisions.
Now to pay my bills...

miss identifcation?

I decided to wear my Credit' Arigcole jersey as it was most green thing I have. I took I a different route over to the start of the club ride. I actually managed to keep (about 20 mph) for he first ten mile. The we start a 1000 foot over the next 5 miles(up to Shinn Road). I dropped off the back quite a bit, but my buddies were waiting and one of them held my bike so I could take off my tights. We rode together for a while. At another hill , a rider was having problems with his gears, so I waited for him. the main gang had caught by a light, Stopped at the coffee shop and had a cappuccino before start back. I did the 100 foot climb from the other side, which was fun (not), since it has about 1/4 mile of 12% grade. I made up to over 40 coming into Claremont, and pedaled back home.
miles 62.8 or 100K
I was think about this, out here I'm a slow rider (at least in the club), when I I go to an away event, the impression of my speed changes for the better. I think may need to do some more "rebel" thing.
I was thinking about this reading a forum post on bikejournal.com. Someone had posted a youtube video about a bicycle ride down a descent in Colorado. Some had remarked how Aaron Copeland's "Appalachian Spring" was fitting. I thought that it was odd, "Appalachian Spring" always (in a bicycling sense of the word) bring to my mind a ride along the Yellow Breeches, Conodoguinet, or Manada creeks in Pennsylvania. it was acually "Rodeo".( A bit more fitting)And I have to admit, I really, really like "Appalachian Spring" since it is based on a melody that is used in two of my favorite Christian Songs; Simple Gifts and Lord of the Dance. Of course, I get confused and run these together in my in my mind, so I find myself singing something like this:

'Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free,

'Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be,

And when we find ourselves in the place just right,

'Twill be in the valley of love and delight.

When true simplicity is gain'd,

To bow and to bend we shan't be asham'd,

To turn, turn will be our delight,

Till by turning, turning we come round right

Dance, then, wherever you may be;
I am the Lord of the Dance, said he,
And I'll lead you all, wherever you may be,
And I'll lead you all in the dance, said he.

Sometimes I think we try and make things too simple. it's easy to make a snap judgments of something and then try and find things that back up your view (of people, things, Hobbies, or religion) rather than putting you brain in gear and look at the truth, As Van Halen said " I found the simple life ain't so simple"

As for me I'm still looking for the Valley of love and delight. I almost went to Albany,NY before I came out here. As you may know, Albany was there Shakers were based. I often thought That I was alive bake in the 1820's , I probably would have joined up. Of course I also think the same thing about John Reed.

Enough food for thought. Until Manana....

Patience wins out in the end

I knew I should have posted earlier!
Today was my day off! Went and saw my doctor. I thought I was going to have a mammogram, Well, that hasn't come to pass yet. I have a script for it and some meds.
I finally got the bike club to do some thing that I've been after them for two years to do, yippee!
Still reading Bruce Bawer's book, and I'm almost at the end. I'm supposed to be journaling as part of the confirmation process, and haven't . something for tommorrow

Well this is gettting hard

Once again , I'm at a loss for words. I probably should spent some time on train doing Java stuff, but I decided to rest my eyes.
I'm still on the Bruce Bawer book.
Tomorrow is my RDO. Yeah!, but I have a doctor appointment, and I have a feeling I might get asked to come into work, bummer. My boos is is sick, and it seems that everyone els is too "busy" to back either one of us up.

giving in to temptation

I had to go to Alberston's and get some soda. while there, I bought some malted milk eggs! oh well.
I'm still Mr Bawer's book. as usual, it's very thought provoking. I was wondering how he was going to handle Islamic extremism after reading his book on Christian "fundamentalist's", but so far so good..
No Java ME class. I think it;s dead.
Have not heard from the Pasadena PD. I do not e-mail class and let them know about whet to do for next week.

writers block setting in

Well, for once. I don't have anything to write about!
Actually, I lied. I went to to library and checked out two books:While Europe Slept by Bruce Bawer, which is about the European reaction to Islamic fundamentalism, and Lorna Doone. Mind blowing combo, I'm sure. I wound with Lorna Doone, because I was much on a 100 calorie pack of LD cookies, and happened upon a the wikipedia entry, so I had to check out the book to see if I like it.
work was actually quiet today.

100 calorie packs

I've been bring 100 calorie pack to work to help me lose wight, Seems to do the trick, but here lately, I've been visiting ye olde vending machine. Need to work on that.
We had our Java class tonight. Did more of a lab session than anything. The only problems is that we leave after the library staff. Normally the door self locks, but today it didn't, so we had to call the police to make it was secure.

On becoming an episcoplian...

Well, I'm actually starting confirmation classes. we had this afternoon, Very good, and it reminded me why I made the decision in the first place. If course this did put a dent in the bike riding. I started out going to Baldy Village the hard way. I made to the tunnels before I decided I wasn't going to have time. This may have been a good thing, as it was very windy.
One of the things I found interesting was the class was held at Panera Bread. Panera started as Saint Louis Bread. As a Former resident of the Gateway city, i liked that little co-incidence. Will I go back? never say never.....
I finally e-mailed out my examples for the Java Class, yes I know, I'm a bad teacher. And I didn't get a chance to talk to the folks at the Pasadena library to see what happened. I also meant to set up another Linux Chix meeting, but that did not get done.

Climbs, the invisble man, and the wind

Toady was the second edition of "the Grind' ride. The only problems was that the leader for the long ride did not show. Or maybe he wore his invisibility suit and rode his invisible bike. Most of the those folk were fine going solo, so I bid them adieu ,and led my charges out on the short ride. Everyone had a good time, except for the guy how decided to make a short cut. I wound doing some doubling back to look for him. After the ride, I decided to ride up to the Lytle Creek firing Range. The only problem was that I hit some ferocious headwind when I got to the 15 Freeway. I decided to press on. I made to the Valero at the 15 and summit, where I took my tights. I rode up into the canyon, with no let up in the wind, except for a brief section past the ranger station where the canyon makes an s -bend. I finally decided to turn around at the Fire station, about 5 miles and 1000 feet shy of my goal. I think I had enough intensity battling the wind. Going down was equally as intense, as I was going over 50mph at times. Stopped by Henry's and got my usual Fair Trade coffee, and got a new Michelin tire from REI, which was made in Thailand (well, better than China, i think. They were a democracy until a few months ago.)

Hanging out with the Chix

Today, work ,was for once, boring, yeah!
I drive into today so I didn't get a ride in, Darn! although traffic was light enough that I could have.
This evening I had wonderful dinner with the Ladies from Linux Chix LA in Pasadena. I got there and thought for a while That I would be the only one. we all had a a good time.
I'm supposed to lead the ride tomorrow, but I may a solo rider. It's the Solvang century. In a way I'm glad I'm not doing Solvang. There are way too many "racers" to make it enjoyable, and I would have missed out on a great evening. Yeah!

Can yo buy anything not made in China?

I admit, I tend to be pretty liberal on somethings. I just bought a new helmet tonight, The Pads on my old one were falling apart after six months. The new one looks more heavy duty. The new one is a Giro Monza (From China) and the old is a Limar 907(Italy). I've had Limars in the past, and they've had decent pads. This one had the type of pads you would normally find in a department store helmets. I guess they figured it was a place where you could cut costs and remain competitive.
As Far as outsourcing, I'm of a mixed opinion, Long term, i Think it will even out. It;s just I would like to buy good that were produced by a democratic society, and sometime i wonder if we're relying too much on China (Thinking about Lenin's remarks that the capitalist would sell him the rope that he would hang them with). Not to mention that we seem to leaving the folks with no professional skills behind. And I know I could have bought a Rudy Project or a LAS, but money is tight , and I had my dividend coupon from REI.
Anyways, enough of My soapbox

The boy who cried wolf and public transport

Work is getting to be too much, Everyone insists in giving their work the highest priority, and the throws a hissy fit when the get stuck in the queue. Well, I can work so fast, and I 'm even slower without backup and when the workload is doubled.
Missed the 6:00 train again grr. we had the usual cast of characters, included the lady who talks aloud to herself. and my seatmate asked aloud if she was crazy. Maybe I should I quit and become Ms MetroLink Manners

Can I go home now

Today was an extremely crazy day at work. I think I did two day's work in 9 hours.
Need to e-mail some files to the Java people, but I don't feel like unpacking my laptop. I did my usual climbing route this morning and found out i was a 1/2MPH faster! Going up Mt Baldy did pay off!, well, at least for Today

No Class for you!

Well, I was supposed to teach the Java class tonight at the library in Pasadena. The only issue that the city of Pasadena had taken over the meeting room as election Headquarters! Which meant we only did an hour, and that was just as well, as I had a busy day at work.
I did watch the "tomb of Jesus" last night. Some good point, but to me, a lot of it was making the facts fit the theory.
No bicycling today. Figured I did enough yesterday.

Am I insane or what

Since Bernie had adivised me that the 200k Had some 21% grades. I decided that I need to do some climbing. so after church and the weekly checkup with Family, I did Glendora Mountain and Glendora Ridge road to Baldy Village and back down, Like Brandy, it 's gorgeous here. I didn't have to take as many "panting" breaks (well maybe on Glendora Ridge) I surprised myself, as I able to do a lot of it without my granny gear The only Downside was coming home, I wound on street that was being repaved - The City Of Upland(24th Street) had removed all the pavement - so I had to to do an impromptu cycle cross session.
Miles 51.6 - Elevation gain 4800 feet average speed if you have to ask, you don't want to know.
The photos- The snow covered peak in the first three Lookout Mountain (6812 feet). Then there is is obligatory photo of the Cow Canyon saddle sign (when I started in Glendora I was at 812). Next is a photo looking down on the Vally of the East fork of the San Gabriel, and last is ridge in the Cucamonga Wilderness.

climb, climb, climb

i did the club ride , plus a little extra today. This is our first time with a set route on Saturday, and we had a good turn out (about 25 rides for a club of 80). Most of the fast riders went a little farther, before they started the ascent, but I had a couple of folks with and we took to the direct route up Mt Baldy Road. The two folks with me kept on turning around on the steep sections. It's supposed to be a ride that should have a map with and a I wasn't leading today, it did feel not to be that last person up this section. I go to the turnout for Shinn (the first red mark) and stopped and took off my tights. The other riders came by and I told them where to turn. I rode up to the tunnels, although I probably should had kept on going to Baldy village. I descended, did some climbing, and stopped by the Coffee Shop to socialize. I rode by the bank so I could cash my Birthday checks.
Total for the 51.85 miles with 2900 feet of climbing.
Felt good to not to have another monster day of work.

__________________

That Does it

I caught the 7:20 PM train again tonight. I knew I should have driven in! And I didn't get a ride in this AM due last night. The good new two days without work! and I drive in on Monday. The rest of the next week may be bad with the Railroad track work.
I moved my Hotel to the Motel 6 for the 300K - so no wi fi- no blog.
The other Item is that my boss switched my Friday off. I told him that I need the March one, but (as usual) forgot - I don't think there's anything malicious - he's absent minded professor type. Now, I have to decided if I want to Drive to Morro Bay on Friday night. We're going to try and hash it out on Friday

somedays I should stay in bed...

Things went well until stepped of the train in El Monte, There was broken stop light and the driver of the Shuttle bus made an obscene gesture at a police officer. it was supposed to be a busy day at work, but wound doing the professional web surfing until 5, when the usual crisis erupted. And Gmail wasn't available for half the day.
Then coming home, more traffic. The City of El Monte still hadn't fixed the signal. Instead of catching the 6:00 train as usual, or even the 6:20, we wound up on the 7:20. But a bunch of us stood around and talked for an hour. There was supposed to be some from Team Estrogen at the club meeting tonight, but I was sure she is she made there. I was there for about 20, minutes, then came.
And I found a boo-boo with my checking account, and it's not in my favor. So the coming might be a little fun(i need to stop dipping into my savings), but Faith will find a way. And I didn't complain at all! Go purple bracelet!

Babies and judges

I hadn't laked about Megan for while. The story i'm hearing that the seizure was messed up and it now has to go before a Missouri Supreme Court judge,. Sounds like it's going to be a drawn out affair,
I decided not to go to the J2ME class, which was a good thing since I got an e-mail stating it had been canceled.
I wound up on the 6:20 train, so I didn't get to hear all of Dr Sanders lecture, Darn! he was talking about the "Jesus' Bones" when I got there.
Biking: Its sound like some folks from the club are crazy enough to want to tackle the 508 . Glad I'm not the only Psycho cycler around

Dieting

I was e-mailing Bernie about the 300K route in Cayucos today. He complimented me on how I've lost . I told I'd lost 5 pounds. and it's been a struggle. Maybe I need to pay less attention to the scale....
I was going to ride this morning, but it started to rain when I walked out the door. Darn!
I'm still debating what to do tomorrow night. I'm leaning toward going to hear Dr. Sanders, as I'm begging to think that J2ME is a bit over my head right now.
You've may noticed more posts from Moi here. I'm trying to do a post a day thourgh lent. I've made it a week :)

back to the routine

I lead (taught) the Java Group in Pasadena. I think they're finally getting objects. Yea!. we didn't go as long as planned , because several people went to the Richard Stallman lecture at USC instead.
I could a lengthly Windows vs Linux blog, but it is 9:30.
Wednesday night I have to decide what to do again God vs Java.
Speaking of God, You've probably heard the "Jesus' bones" report on the news. I'd like to get more info , but right now it sounds like a rush to judgment in order to cash in on the "da Vinici code" craze. After all , there was only guy named Jesus, right? St, Marks is having James Sanders speak on Wednesday, which is why
I'm considering skipping the J2ME class. Granted, I'd rather hear a new testatment scholars opinion, but beggars can't be choosers

Huel Howser made me do it!

In case you don't know, Huell Howser is a Television producer for KCET in Los Angeles. He usually Does Travelogues on Various touristy type thing In California. He did on the Carrizo Plain National Monument. , so I went by, It was nice. In case you don't know what it is here are some Links
BLM
Wikipedia
Sierra Club
Nature Conservancy
I went to the visitor's center, and did the Soda Lake Boardwalk, I then drove the San Andreas Fault and the oil town of Mc Kittrick and Taft. Yes, Huell has been there too, But I didn't stop and take a photo. I then drove over the Grapevine.
So in a Day , I went from the beach, to the desert, to the mountains, and back home

Yet another brevet

Well , I've got Brevet #2 in the books.
I need to find a new job so I can move up here! It's too pretty.
Started early at 6:30 - Spoke a little bit with Bernie Barge from the 508. He lives up here. We pedaled in to San Luis Obipso. I remember that one section of road was imprinted with "built by the W.PA. - 1938, Unfortunately I missed taking a picture.
I also missed the First control. On brevets, you are given a Card, which have to have stamped at all controls to get official credit. It was at a coffee shop
We rode out of SLO and went back to Morro Bay. On the way there, I thought I saw my first California Poppy, more on this later. We then got back on Highway 1 - which is actually a freeway. It wasn't as bad as it sounds. We got off Highway 1 to go through Cayucos. Saw more of the Flowers.
California Smallest Town - Harmony, Population 18. Noticed that the Episcopalians pick up trash in Harmony. We had to climb a hill in Cambria, and I stopped in San Simeon and had an Odawalla Bar.
We then pedaled through San Simeon and past the Hearst mansion. I wasn'tsure about riding on PCH. The Coverage on Versus when the Tour of California did stage here was "Cyclists - Don't do this road! The Crazy Drivers will run you over!" Shame on you Phil, Paul, and Bob! Nice shoulder until we got to the climb to The Ragged Point inn, and even then, the Drivers were courteous.
I had a turkey Sandwich at the Ragged point(pic below). I think I got penalized for eating healthy. Most People were having Burgers and Fries. It took me forty minutes, it should have taken me twenty. Most controls are at restaurant or stores (the first was at a coffee shop) and I usually like to patronize them to show my appreciation for putting with us Psycho cyclists. I made it back through Cambira and Harmony and Arrived at Cayucos at 4. Lots better than 6:30. Socialized with the gentleman running the control and some other riders. Talked about the flowers- they though they weren't Poppies - Darn! Had dinner at Taco bell- should have gone back to the Maya.
I'm still debating what to do tomorrow. I'm probably going back via the Carizzo Plain. Still considering dropping in on Church up here. I know it's no big deal, but is Lent. let you know in tomorrow's post....
Photos!:

BirthDay Blog

Yes, it's my birthday. I started out today with a Trim by my stylist, Albert. I checked the Internet and found that FedEx was going to attempt to deliver some Hammer Gel today. I waited and waited, and finally gave up.
I had lunch at Todai in Arcadia, it's a Japanesse buffet - but they have a variety of stuff, I carbo loaded on Sushi, and had some Kimchee and Sashmi(Raw fish - Sushi translates as "with rice") I then drove up to Cayucos. I thought about pulling off in Solvang and watching the TOC, but I wanted to make sure I knew where I was going tomorrow morning. It's real pretty up here.
I Forgot to bring some tights, but I found some at Rite Aid(hey, they sponsor a cycling team) for $5.99. Was going to eat a Mexican restaurant, but it was crowded, so I wound up The place next door to the motel. It looked like a dive, but it turned out pretty good(Maya's in Morro Bay), it was also Mexican - I had the Grande Burrito. Retired to the room to watch the boob tube until nighty-night.

It all works out in the end

I was going to watch the Tour of California - if nothing else to see the route for Saturday, but it rained here today. Normally, that doesn't mean much, but I take the train back and forth to work, and to get to work from the Train station in El Monte, I take a shuttle bus. well, the rain (L.A. Drivers "why are water puddles falling from the sky? It must be an Act o' God!(well it is)") caused traffic to be even more jammed than usual, which in turn caused Eloy to miss the 6:00 train. If I make that one, I can get home in time to catch the usual start of the coverage on Versus. We had to wait for the 6:20, so I thought I was going to miss half of it. It turns out that the show didn't start until 8:00. Happy Campers. Don't sweat the small stuff, Someone will take care of for you (think Romans 8:28)
P.S. They edit out most of what I wanted to see! They just left in the finish in San Luis Obpiso.

Ash Wednesday

Well, Anthony canceled the J2ME class, which removed one crisis. So made it to the evening service at St. Mark's. And we had birthday cake at work, which was a problems. my birthday is Friday, and as an Anglican type person , I was supposed to be fasting. I took a piece and ate it on the the train.
Speaking of Fasting (and Bicycling), remember I said the 400K was on Easter Weekend? Well, guess I get to fast again : Good Friday.
Seriously, I find interesting that Brevet Season and Lent are coinciding. My two passion,(well, I probably should work Java in there , too) all together. I've been discerning if should draw anything from this... I'm sure there's a connection that's I'm supposed to make.
You have noticed that there a bicycle race in California this week? I've watched two hours of it. all week. I guess I like riding my bike more than watching other people ride theirs. I'll probably tune in tomorrow, if for nothing else, to get a sneak peek at the course on Saturday.

Bicycling Content

I forgot the bike rides from this weekend!
Saturday - The club is trying some new ideas - specifically a fixed route for the Saturday rides, with a new starting point. I rode to the old starting point, picked up the people who went there and proceeded to the new point. Tom and Sue were going to lead the slow . er short, ride(will the world stop turning?), but they showed up with a broken fork on their Zona. I wound up with the lead.
Things went well. There were some complaining about the number of regroups, but I wanted to see how things were going, and we did have a new rider, so I didnn't want to make a bad impression. I got in to trouble for showing how fast big folks can go downhill, and we all had coffee afterward.
Sunday - some folk had complained about a turn on the long route, and we thought there was a route arrow left over from the Tour de Foothills. I pedaled my up Mt Baldy Rd (I don't go uphill nearly as fast as I go down... Darn!) and looked for it. It was there,but could stand a freshning.
Ubuntu - I got 6.10 up and running over the weekend. Lot better. the only boo-boo was that I installed a plug for Firefox that's supposed to help work with the LinkedIn website. It did want to co-exist with Gmail(kept on try to find a LinkedIn page for each mail), so I had to de-install it.
Tommorrow - I'm still on the fence on wether to go to class or not.

God keeps on getting in the way....

What to make a priority?
As you may know, Wednesday is Ash Wednesday. Normally not a problem, But I also have the Java ME(cell phone programming class) that night. As a wannabe Episcopalian, I 'm supposed to show up some where and get some ashes put on my forehead. Not to mention that I'm supposed to Fast that day. Normally, I would make back to St. Mark's in Upland. I looked at the Episcopal church's website (www.episcopalchurch.org) and found some congregations near El Monet, but none had a website. I 'll probably call the one nearest work and see if they a noon service. I can always pretend I'm still a presbyterian and skip the imposition.
As you may know, I'm trying to ride a Brevet series this year , the involves riding 200, 300, 400 and 600K rides (124,188,256 and 372 miles). If you've read this before, You know my initial attempt at 200K wasn't quite what I expected.
I'm going to try doing another 200K at Cayucos this Saturday. A lot less climbing, and I've some weight off, so it should easier. the 300K is on 3/24, so I'm going to for that right now. The problem is that the 400K is on 4/7. Easter Sunday. grrr. I;m debating this one. I could drop in a congregation up there and hope I don't fall asleep (I'll be riding for most of the night). And the club is doing my favorite ride (Glendora Mountain Road) on a Sunday.
Normally, most people do the brevets to get qualified to do a 1200K (768 miles) event. The only one this year is Paris-Brest-Paris. I really don't have the money to go to France, so I may do some thing here locally (my buddies are trying to get me to do the Hemet Double Century, which is in March.
Oh, what am I doing for a Lenten discipline?
well , two things
The first thing is I'm a wear a purple spirit wristband. You're not supposed to have negative thoughts for 21 days. I'll let you know how it goes.
I'm also going to give up on potato chips and Cheeze-its

Ubuntu to you, too!

I forgot ,
as part of the women in open source conference, Google gave away T-shirts.
The Bad news: The XL looks like it would fit a size 8! Apparently, they need to know what Real Girls(tm) look like.
Ubuntu -My Desktop was running 6.06 and I finally decided to upgrade to 6.10. The only problem was that the CD I burned was bad and I found out about when It had started to reformat my hard disk! So I'm downloadng another copy on my laptop right now. I thought being really kewl and doing Gentoo, but I don't think I would have enough time.
Java - going along good. I 've been doing some example for my class. More next time

SCALE

What's SCALE?
it's the
Southern
California
Area
Linux
Expo!
As you may surmised , I had a busy weekend
Friday morning, I had a Doctor's appt, Then, I drove to the Westin LAX, They were having a Women in Open source conference, Unfortunately, I missed the speaker I want to hear, but all the other Ladies were great! and It was neat not be only the person with Boobs at a computer meeting., I have Sharon and Betty set up the LinuxChix booth afterwards.
Saturday - I did the Tour De Palm Springs - see last post.
Sunday I went to church ,and headed to LAX again. I helped out in the booth, and attended a few conferences, Ran into my friend Jeff Lasman from Riverside. Was debating staying for a few more conferences, but I needed to type Bicycle Club meeting minutes, so I took off early
The pic: LinuxChixLA booth: Betty, Sharon, Moi(with my Palm Springs tan) (from LXer.com)

Tour De palm Springs

This was the first time I had done the same ride two years in a row, Nothing much had changed.
The start location is now in Downtown PS. I rode for a little while with CaliGurl from the Team Estrogen forums,
I took the picture when we were beside the 10 freeway.
The road is still bumpy going into Indio, but they fixed the section by the Indian casino in Cochealla.
I had two flats after the rest stop at mile 70, Ran into Caligurl again. Fred Roth stopped and helped fix the flat right.
When I got to the end , I heard my name being called. It was the Cycling Connection gang, wanting to know If I wanted to go to lunch. Naturally, I took them up on it.

Bicycles, Babies, and Java

What, you may ask, do these items have to do with each other?
Babies: Remember, back in June, when My great niece was born? Well, she's lost 5 pounds since birth, so the Missouri Department of Fa miles has taken her. My nephew and his basically didn't care for her.(I've already received several offers to use Chuck and Jessica Lingo as martial arts dummies) My brother and his wife are trying to get custody of Meghan, and I've offered to take Meghan as well. That will obviously impact Bicycling time. If you see a Fat lady on a grey Cannondale with a baby Trailer on GMR, Stop and say hello.
Bicycles, Nothing much, after leading every single Saturday ride for January, I get a brief break, The Cycling Club is now the Cycling/Triathlon Club, and I did the Tour De Palm Springs This Past Saturday. Another post on that
Java: I am now the leader of the San Gabriel Java Study group. I 'm having a bit of a problem getting my students(victims?) , long time procedural programmers, to get used to object orientation. I'm also considering joining a group that's Learning to use Java to program cell phones. And I did some networking this weekend by Attending Scale (So. Cal. Area Linux Expo). I'm seriously considering posting something to resumewiki.com, but that's another post, as well.
Now I have to decided if I want to play hooky at lunch on the 27th to see Richard Stallman at Caltech.

200 kilometers in a day

how not to do a double metric
I had decided that I was going to trying some brevet Rides in 2007. Brevet rides are unsupported, ultra-distance rides. The nearest place that offered them was San Diego, so I made plans to the 200 Kilometer(124 miles) rides
I woke up early on 20th and drive down to the start at la Jolla. I got there in plenty of time and get the registration taken car of. I usually like to start when it's first light, but under the rules, we had to wait till 7.
the first couple of miles were fine. The only problem was that I had lost my cue sheet. I had a spare one, so it wasn't that big of deal. Unfortunately, I lost it in Escondido. Which was not good, because the course got very tricky here. (2 blocks on one street, turn left , 3 blocks turn right, etc.) Thankfully, I ran into Jim and Mark from the Riverside Bicycle club. they gave one of theirs. Coincidentally, My club(Cycling Connection) and RBC were having a joint ride that day. we joked about we were going to Persona non Grata for doing the brevet instead of the group ride.
We had to do a climb to get into the first control. On brevet , you are given a card which you have stamped at various points called controls. This was by an AM/PM convenience store at interstate 15 and deer creek road , so I stopped and got some thing to eat. I was wishing I could convince Sheetz to build stores on the west coast, but I'm going to have settle for Am/PM and Circle K.
here the ride started to get interesting. the next 30 miles were some very steep and sustained grades. I can do Glendora Mountain Road at 7-8mph (it's about a 6-7% grade). I was doing about 4 and having problems at time with the front wheel coming off the ground ( In my experience, that usually happens around 20%). I was passed by some racers on a training ride, only to encounter them again on a downhill on Couser Canyon. They were waving at me to slow down. A couple of their riders had gone down, but they didn't need anything. they caught me and we rode together until I turned off to do some more climbing.
Eventually I reached the turnaround point at the town of rainbow(Interstate 15 and San Diego/Riverside County line) we crossed over the 15 and began climbing some more. When I was on Reche road, A woman who also doing the brevet got hit by a car. A couple of rides called 991 and the Brevet Administrator. She was conscious and moving, but had to be transported by ambulance. We did some climbing , and came to second control at a sandwich shop in Fallbrook. I stopped and had lunch, and was on my way again.
We were done with the climbing for the most part. However, I made a wrong turn and did not realize it for about 4 miles. I doubled back onto the route, and reached Oceanside about 4 pm. I seriously considered taking the Coaster (Commuter train) back in at this point,but I persevered. It was flat , but I was trying not to push a big gear at this point. I stopped in Enicinitas(about 5pm) to put on my reflective vest and ankle bands as well as to turn on my lights. But I did get to see the sunset over the pacific while riding my bike. Who could ask for anything more?
Those of you have done the Amtrak can figure what happen at 5:30 . Torrey Pines Park! For those of who haven't, it s a mile long climb that ascends about 500 feet. I then pedal through La Jolla and back to the start. About a block away, my cell phone rang. It was Tom, our club president wanting to know where I was at . we were having a part that night. I related my tale and drove back to the party. Would I do it again? Maybe If I do could a flatter series. I was listen to my George Gershwin CD on the way back, and remembering a quote. He was playing tennis with one of his friends and complaining that he could never be another (name composer). He friend said that he stop trying be somebody and concentrate on the best George Gershwin he could be.
“Life is a lot like jazz.. it's best when you improvise” GG
here's the route
http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/San-Diego-200K

bike Mechanics 101

We were going to go and do Sunset loop in Redlands(on of the stages from The Races there), but the weather forecast was calling for Santa Ana winds. I was going to be charge of the longest option(70 miles), but no showed except for a Tandem couple(Tom and Mary Lou) who was going to do a shorter option. I asked I could hitch a ride with them back. The winds weren't bad in the Morning, but were supposed to pick up, and lot of the riding was through some very gang-infested neighborhoods(I Think they would still be sleeping in the morning), just As I was getting ready to take off, I heard some one call my name. Another rider from the club(Fred Roth) had showed up. We called the tandem couple and told that we would be going west instead of east(they told the wind was "very bad").
Things went fine until we got to the midpoint of the Ride (Bonelli Park in San Dimas), Fred had pulled ahead on a hill. I was descending and saw him standing in the middle of the road with his bike . The Rear Derailleur had broken . We tried to make an emergency Single Speed, since we were about two miles from a shop, but had no luck. Fred eventually called his wife to rescue him and I went on my way. I discovered that chain breaker of my minitool was missing a piece, so I went and got a replacement. Had a flat, Stopped by REI and got a rack trunk, and went home (not wishing to press my luck) wound up with 53 miles

The Salton Sea

I was supposed to meet some folks and do a double metric today(circumnavigation of the Salton Sea) I got to start and waited , and waited , after a half hour I took off. while I didn't have a cue sheet, this is the desert, so it's hard to get lost. Just remember which side you want the sea/lake on. Things went well at first. I maintain about 17mph and the border patrol waived me through a check point . I had a flat at mile 30 , but made to mile 50. I was getting close to the urban areas of Palm Springs/ Cochella valley, so I decided to turn around. My average dropped to 13 and stayed there. I finally ran across my group at mile 54. By then I was wondering if i could do 120, I went by an abandoned hotel/Night club where I took the pictures.:







I managed to get out the wind by the border patrol . but the the last 8 miles from Niland to Calipatria were something else. There was a 20mph crosswind. I had to stop get off the bike to drink for fear of being blown down! I decided to call it a day at 100. Calipartia was having a Christmas Festival when I got back. , So I browsed it for a while. I forgot to a photo the World's Tallest flagpole when I left town. Calipartia is 180 feet below sea level, and the flagpole is 181 feet tall(my maximum elevation for the day was about -54). I guess that way they can find their town when the Gulf of California or the Colorado river floods town

Tour De Tuscon

The final details first:
time 6:58, which put me in the Gold, which is where I thought I would wind up.
I got in to town on Friday, picked up my packets, and had dinner with some friends. Got up early on Saturday and lined up in the middle of the silvers (your supposed to choose three places to line up Gold, Silver, or Bronze, based on you abilities. The Golds start first, followed by the Slivers, and then the Bronze) Another member from my club showed up right after me, so I had some one to talk with for the hour it took to get started. Floyd Landis put in and appearance and tired to talk on my cell phone to a couple of other club members to see where they were at.
The "race" started. Frankly I was expecting Congress street to be lined with broken bikes and folks clutching their shoulders. There was one rider down, but a whole lot of dropped water bottles, Hammer Gel Flasks, and other junk that would put you down on the asphalt.
One of the unique features of EL Tour is the river crossings. Twice in the race, you have to dismount and carry your bike across a wash (Southwest American for dry River or Creek bed). I was told the first one helped to thin out the crowd. It didn't . Part of this my have been that I wore some very Ratty tights to the start, and discarded them there. I was having problems find a hole to pass folks without crossing the double line, which was supposed to be a DQ. But other folks were doing it, so I Did a couple. Also saw several folks on areobars with race bibs on thorough the day.
I was bypassing most of the rest stops, but I stopped at one to take my jacket off. before I knew It. I was at the second wash crossing. I started having problems with my jacket. I had bought when I weighed 300+ pounds, and it was too big for my jersey pockets. It would fall out, and then a Boy Scout/Girl Scout/ another rider would pick it up and carry it to me. It did this about 6 times.
We turned on to Oracle highway and stayed on it for a long time. I , unfortunately , saw the aftermath of a bike-car collision. we rode in to the city of Oro Grande and though sun city, when I got on tangerine, I had pacelines passing me on both sides, even thought I was about 6-12 inches from the shoulder. Got Stopped by a train at the 10 Freeway and turned onto Sliverbell for the run back downtown. I noticed a lot of folks cramping here. Part of is that El Tour is actually 109 instead of 100 miles, and people did not plan adequately(my guess). Also, The even does attract folk from all over, so they were not used to riding in the arid Southwest. I remember some folks asking me why I was not cramping, and I said "when in doubt, DRINK!" I had a 70 oz camelbak, and two water bottles with Hammer Preputum in them.My Jacket fell out a Final Time, and this time it got jammed in the cassette. I made back to convention center, turned in my timimg chip, and went to get my Gold medal, only to be informed that they all gone! Seriously, the only difference is a sticker on the back, and I'm planning on sticking in a frame. went back to my hotel, showered, Had lunch with some friends who had gotten platinum (The top award, <5>Plus, if you are plantinum, you get start ahead of the golds, and don't have to wake up at 3AM to get a good spot), and then went back to expo area to await the club's other members (The gentleman from my club that I was with at the start was 30 minutes ahead of me). we had dinner afterwards., I was supposed to call a guy from Bike Journal to arrange breakfast, but spazzed that one.
I'm still debating on doing it again. It was a very well organized, it just that's too many who are in over the heads. It's up to you to line up. I enjoyed it, It just having a summer of FallingOffTheBikeitis, I'm not sure I want to trust my body to 8,000 strangers.

Furnace creek

As many of you know, I’ve been planning on doing some beyond century Rides for 2007. I was on the Forums section of BikeJournal.com and got an invite from “Homey”, Aka Bernie Barge, from Paso Robles, to be a part of his support crew for the 508.

His partner, Nicole Honda, was from San Mateo. The support was Jae Honda (Nicole’s husband), and Dennis Salguero from Pasadena.

On the 508, team use totems instead of numbers. Once you are assigned one. You have it for life. Bernie and Nicole had both done the race solo, as teams Basenji and Golden Dragon, so our totem was Golden Drasenji, Half Dragon and half puppy. I got to the Hotel in Valencia on Friday night. We had a “real” team meeting (vs. a couple of conference calls) and found out Bernie had pulled his hamstring playing softball. We then adjourned to our rooms and slept.

Saturday morning, I helped Jae get the Support van ready. He had customized a one-ton van for the race (helps to be married to a mechanic). He also had me drive it, so I could get comfortable with the beast.

Stage 1: Valencia to California City 82 miles

We started at 9:00. Nicole was the first rider off. We drove 24 miles and waited for Nicole to show up. I was the “feeder”. I was mixing drinks (Bernie use Perpetum, Sustained Energy, and Hammer Gel. Try Gatorade mixed with Cytomax, and Big dollop of GU thrown in. Yes, in the bottle) We would leap frog her, get out, cheer her on, asked if she needed anything and pass out what she asked for last time. We went up past the Willow Springs raceway, and past the Airplane Graveyard at Mojave, and arrived at the first stop. Time 5:06(keep in mind, the clock runs in these events, even if you are stopped) 16.4 mph average.

Stage 2 California City to Trona 70.25 miles

Bernie had decided to lower his saddle to help his hamstring. This backfired, as he got a saddle sore, and didn’t help the muscle pull. I was now driving the van. We went though Johannesburg and Randsburg. About 10 miles from Trona, we had to switch to follow mode as the Sun started to set. We drove behind Bernie, and He used the van lights to see. There was a loudspeaker on the front of the van, which we used to play music to keep the riders from falling asleep. Trona even has a bike Path! Time 4:40 Average 14.but Bernie claims it was 12. He normally does the stage at 22. We stopped and put gas in the Van, and got ready for the night. Dennis wanted some Red Bull, but the store only had Rock Star.

Stage 3 Trona to Furnace Creek 99 miles

I was back mixing stuff and rifling through the coolers. When I wasn’t busy. I tried to sleep. During the night, we handed stuff out the Van’s window. The stage climbs from 1600 feet to 2800, and then descends to 1500 feet before going over Townes Pass (4956). Nicole was going strong, and was dropping riders left and right. We started seeing a lot of the Solo riders here (they left 2 hours before us). We then went down into Death Valley and stopped at Furnace Creek at 3AM. The whole time, we would occasionally stop and massage Bernie. Time 5 hours 30 minutes average 18 mph.

Stage 4 Furnace Creek to Shoshone 74 miles.

We decided to have Nicole ride this stage, even though we were not sure if it was permitted by the rules. We were going to get clarification, but the officials at Furnace creek were not sure, and we had no cell service to call Twenty-nine Palms. I was the navigator. I sat in the front passenger seat, and Jae would poke me to wake me up when Nicole needed something. Nicole had almost DNF’ed at last year 508 with knee problems, so we stopped and massaged her knees several times) Right before the ascent of Jubilee (1285) and Salsberry (3315) passes (6am), We stopped. I got to sleep in the bed. I woke shortly before Nicole summited. She was having problems with the crosswinds on the descent. We arrived at the next rest stop in Shoshone in the morning. We had run out of Rock Star during the night, and the store had none. It was also Bernie’s time to ride. Still had no cell service.

Time 7 hours speed 10mph. It was late, but we had no choice but to get Bernie ready to ride, and we need to make that Nicole was still able to go.

Stage 5 Shoshone to Baker 56 miles

I was the Navigator again. Bernie was doing considerably better. This stage is almost all down hill. He did have to stop and throw up. We leapfrogged him at first, but after his stomach problems. We went back into follow mode. Baker has bike paths, too! At the time station, I ran across the road to restock the groceries. More Sprites, more lunchmeat and condiments, more Red Bull, and we were ready to go. We got the Ok for our strategy, provided Bernie would ride the last two stages. Time 3 hour 15 minutes average speed 17 mph

Stage 6 Baker to Kelso 56 miles.

This stage featured a 20-mile false flat with 2500 feet of gain followed by a 1500 feet descent. The main problem here was the Moonscape like pavement. I was the Navigator, as Dennis drove and Jae got Bernie ready. time 2 hours 45 minutes average 20 mph.

Stage 7 Kelso to Amboy 33 miles.

I was driving again. We followed Bernie up a 12-mile – 2000 feet climb, and down a 50 mph descent. The traffic picked up. All Riders who make to Amboy get a lei. I got a can of Pineapple Juice. Time 2 hours 30 minutes. Speed 13.2mph

Stage 8 Amboy to Twenty-nine Palms 56 miles

Per our agreement with Chris Kostman, the organizer, Bernie rode the final stage. I was 6:00 when we left Amboy, and the highway was surprisingly busy. I was driving again. Bernie had to ride up Sheephole Mountain (1500 feet in ten miles) in the dark. The plan was to swap drivers on the descent, as it is harder to drive the van close enough on the curves, but not to drive over the rider. Bernie was feeling very good at the summit, and wanted to push on. At 10 miles from the hotel, He bonked. We stopped and got him going again, and swapped drivers. At 11:30 we finally arrived! We had pizza and champagne, and piled in to one motel room at 1:00. I got to go to the Bathroom without finding a large bush first! Nicole was smarter than moi and wore a large skirt (Maybe our Great-Great Grandmothers were right with their Fashion sense) Time 5 hours 20 minutes. Speed 11.8

Monday morning. we watched the final riders arrive. Among them was Emily O’Brien, who rode the entire event solo on a fixed Gear! On our way to breakfast with the other teams, we saw several riders sprinting to beat the 7AM deadline for official finishers. We all talked about what we would be doing a year from now before heading home.

Would I do it again? You bet! I had been an official at an Ultra race before, but this my first time working as a crew. Who knows, maybe next year, Team Thunder Chicken could be showing up at best Western parking lot at 6:50 am on Monday….

Life in a sling

Well, it’s been a while.
On the 12th, I fell while I was in a pace line on the Santa Ana Trail. I’m not going to get in to the dynamics; aside from there was probably enough stupidity to go around. Wound h up fracturing my Humerus. Has to drive myself back to San Antonio Hospital in Upland. Currently, my left Arm is in a sling. It supposed to take 6 weeks. I’ve been doing walking to keep with the exercise. Tried riding a stationary bike, but that didn’t work.
Computer stuff – I’ve been leaving the laptop at home. It’s less stuff to lug on and off the train. And I haven’t been to type with it on a desk. I may try using as a laptop tonight and see how it goes, I’ve been back at studying my SCJP stuff. Haven’t touched my other Java stuff or the fiction.
Speaking of Java and writing, I got an e-mail from a headhunter, He noticed that I knew Java and COBOL, and could writing. He was looking a for a tech writer, but My résumé is fairly outdated. I’ll be working on it the weekend

Half a bear

bear is 6700)
WE did something a little different We met and carpooled up to Big Bear Lake. We then rode around Big Bear and Baldwin Lake. It was lot cooler , due to the elevation (Cucamonga is 1200 feet and big bear is 6700) Very gorgeous! The ride started OK with some climbing through big bear city. We soon crossed the bridge and rode around the north shore (Same as a I did on Ride around the bear) We then continued past the turn off for RAB, and continued on to Baldwin Lake . We had a regroup. After that we were off again. Came around Baldwin, and found the turn to go to Onyx Summit. Some of us went back to the cars, and other went up to Onyx. I , of course, went to Onyx. Some of the slower riders got lost and wound up trying the road to Onyx as well. I Think I surprised some of the "Big Dogs" by making it up to summit as fast as I did. It's an 8 mile, 1700 foot climb. I was felling pretty good, too. Of course, not riding my bike form Redlands (50 mile and 5700 feet) helped a lot! Unfortunately, no one was there to document my accomplishment, as the other had already started down.
going downhill was a blast. Max speed was 46.9 mph! Then I had to navigate through the Traffic Jams in Big Bear City. Had to stop and let a Ambulance get to a Motorcycle -car crash :( . I managed to get lost on the return and had call some one for directions. Great Ride! and Pasta for lunch!