Plan b from the Inland Empire

I was going to The Tour de Palm Springs, but I noticed that the tires on my car were dangerously bald.
So I went for a metric century instead!
I started out going down Baseline road, but decided I hadn't been up Shinn Road. So I went that way Took a pic at Campus and 21st and another at the LA county line (Angeles National Forest) before getting to Shinn and Mt. Baldy road roads. I then went down and started looking for more miles. Which lead me to the Baldwin park Metrolink station . I like this station, ad it has some unique Architecture. I then a park in Covina before stooping at the Covina Metrolink station with its British Phone Booth. I then went buy InCycle in San Dimas to pick up some Hammer Gel went by the University of La Verne Super Tent.
I stopped at the Pomona Station. They had some neat statuary here, but its' been removed due to vandalism. I stopped by the old Santa Fe station in Claremont, before heading home and to the emporium of Manny, Joe, and Jack with 55 miles
Notice that I didn't even get a metric? Well life be's that way sometimes and I'm drinking a soda now too. Reminds of song lyric: "if you want o hear God laugh, tel him your plans" and in the end, it's how we handle the detours that matter

getting ready....

Well I was going to post some neat-o keen photos of Downtown La from my Mountain Bike ride at Claremont Wilderness park.
And then my co-worker Carlos, passed away. I tried to do at least one long distance ride a week, and his memorial is Saturday, and it's supposed to rain on Sunday..
So I did my long distance ride today. I hadn't been up the Cajon pass in a while, so I went there.
I stopped about mile away from home, and took a photo of Cucamonga peak. I then took the Pacific Electric trail across Rancho, and did the detour around what I call "Lake Pacific Electric". I ran in to my friend Bruce Taylor, and we talked about our randoneurring adventures.
I then climbed up through Devore ,and took anther pic. I made up to the end of old 66, and turned. I had to fix a flat. I made down the pass , and stopped by the Metrolink Station and bought my February Pass.
I then pedaled by an old winery. Here's a link to some of our area's wine history.
When I went by Bear Gulch park, I heard a loud POW! you guessed it - another flat. I was debating fixing it - I was only a half mile from home, and even less if I cut through the park and school. But school was in session, and I didn't want to have a meeting with San Bernardino's County finest(Rancho is what is known in California as a contract city - our Police officers are actually all Deputy Sheriffs(even though the car say "Rancho Cucamonga Police".
So what does all this have to do with getting ready? As you may know Ash Wednesday is next week, which means Lent is starting.
Traditionally, we Anglicans emphasize Discipline rather than outright fasting. Long time readers may recall that last year, I did a blog post a day. It turned out to be an adventure.
So what am I going to do? I'm going to try and give up soda. even though I drink diet, I still drink too much. and I'm also going to try and ride my bike every day(yes, this is California, but it s rainy season.) I usually trying to get my lent resolutions to improvement in myself.
So what does this have to do with San Carlito, partoñ of Pan Dulce?
well, we all know life has a habit of getting in the way, So yeah, I 'll probably miss a few days, and drink a few Dr Peppers. but what matters is not that our plans have to change, but how to handle life... even today, I went to get a new tire and tubes from Don's bikes, and forgot that I needed patches
Have some Pan Dulce(Mexican Sweet bread that Carlos would always tempt me with..) for Carlos Talancon. and live each like it was your last

It never snows in Southern California....

Well, like the song says, Girl, don't they warn ya...
I had been noticing when I was waiting for the train that it had been snow, and fairly low elevations. so i decided that since I had not done Lytle Creek canyon in a while, I would head there today and see how low the snow was.
Today stared out nice and sunny.(see the bottom pic). Which actually turned to be bad(was supposed to be overcast). I stopped at a park in Fontana, and took another pic
I really didn't have that much of problem with cars until I got to Lytle Creek Road. I took some more pics at the Ranger station,and the Oriental church retreat across the road. I got on my bike again and pedaled to the campground. One of the nice things about Lytle Creek Road is that landmarks are conveniently spaced elevation wise. The 15/Sierra ave interchange is at 2000 feet, The ranger station is at 2500, the town of Lytle Creek is at 3000, and Applewhite campground is at 3500.
I soon pedaled off the County road and onto the Forest Service road. A lot of folks had driven up to play in the snow. one of the more unusual things people do here is to fill their pick up beds full of snow and take it home. Where I come from they used to shovel it out so your bed wouldn't rust out(this was before bed liners).
at about 4,300 feet the snow got where the cars were slipping on it. I had started to slide a couple of times, so I decided to turn around, even though I was mile short of the pavement end at the firing range. so I went home .
fun day , but I didn't see any sheep (:

malibu it is....

Well after being sick, and having to deal with an airline going out of business on me during my vacation. I finally got back in the swing of this bicycling.
I found that there is another randonneur living nearby , Bruce and had been talking with some folk how double centuries, and we talking them into doing the Malibu 200k put on by Pacific Coast highway Radonneurs.
So at at 4:30 am , I met Bruce Taylor and Mike Miller. Sine I am slower, I drive to Malibu by myself, Bruce and Mike went to pick Suzy Degazon. I got to Malibu at 5:30 and got my bike out of my car. The rest of th gang of show up about 6,and we milled around talked until the start at 7.Suzy had some one take a picture of us.(From L to R Bruce, Mike, Suzy, and myself:
Finally at 7 , we started, They was a 200 foot climb to start with and I was off the back pretty fast. But we soon we back down to sea Level, so is used my descending muscle to get up to mach .7. I had just caught up when we climbed another 200 foot.
The ride was gorgeous. The first 17 miles we rolling hills with the Mansions of the Hollywood Hoi Polloi. We the crossed into Ventura county, and rode along the ocean.
after about 23 mile, highway 1 becomes a freeway. we had to get off and we by the Point Mugu Naval Air Station . we then rode b=past some farm,and came to the first control. I found David Nakai here,and gave him back some brevet cards. He said the extra wait would cause him To DNF! (he was riding a fully loaded touring bike :) ) we then pedaled past the Seabee base .
then we came through the City of Ventura. we went past downtown, onto a bike path, did about 10 more miles of PCH, rode through a mudslide, and came to section I was dreading. about 10miles we you have to ride on the shoulder of the 101 Freeway. I was doing ok until I got to the off ramp, and I had a flat. I fixed it, did another 200 foot climb. we then cam to the lunch stop/ The return was the exact same route. I rode with David most of the way back. I took a picture of neat off shore island (would have gotten close, but this was on the 101 section. Unfortunately , on the way, there was a search and rescue mission going on.
I was taking it easy and dreading the rollers to come. sure enough I start cramp coming up one with about 10 miles. And I had ran out of Accelerade. I would stop at a convenience store and get some , but this is Malibu. So struggled on . I found one at about 4 miles to go but decided to skip it.
We bypassed the last hill. It was about 4:30, and i wanted to take my sunglasses off, and put my reflective vest on I saw a house with a nice wall , so i went over and spread my stuff out. I was think that I hoped the owner wouldn't mind, when he cam back from waling his dog! He said that it was ok , and talked for bit. I came back at 4:40, Talked with David some, had some Pizza, and went home. which beinng in LA, meant 2 hours and sitting in a Traffic Jam...

Jana actually Blog on prayer!

Yes, both my reader may fall of the seats! (Bruce, don't take me seriously!)
For starter let's tackle how and where
I bet most of you prayer at you bed at the end of a day, right? I'd urge to make a different time for it. I almost always try and do it and hour or so before hand. By doing this, it's not something done at the last minute. It's all about how has priorities on your time. and , yes, you should really be trying to find that still, small voice 24/7 and not just form 10 till 10:15 pm.
Where? I always trying to do my evening prayers sitting on the floor in front of the TV (yes, it is off). Why? It's the only time I sit there - so if I'm there, I know what I'm supposed to be doing.
You have to find the time and the imagination to experiment, and realize that where you feel may not be you need to be.
An example - I rode my bike today. I decided to do my usual weekday ride, but try to go into Fontana instead. Things we going fine until I hit Etwanda ave, The wind was just a bit too much for me to feel safe, so i turned around. In a similar vein, I've been trying kneel during communion to see if it "enhances my spiritual experience" (do I sound like an Anglican or what?) I really don't see a difference, and since it is optional, I'm not if I'll continue.
I'll close with the invitation from our Bible study "Are you willing to let something new happen?"
FHS,
Jana

The return of Jabez....

I was doing some more research on prayer, and ran across a book called : The Prayer Experiment: Discovering a Prayer That Could Change Your World
by Jay Dennis
Yes, it's about our old Jabez, but it's not really about getting a new Rolls-Royce in your driveway. Rather, the prayer is about asking to expand your opportunites to serve him.("expand my territory")
another neat fact is that Jabez is close to Hebrew for "pain". so in fact, you the bible writer(whomever you believe them to be) were have fun with puns (a Kid named "PITA" turns out to be God's Chosen) as well as the General Chronicles theme - Those how seek to do God will are blessed,and those that don't suffer the consequences.
I've meaning to update this since Saturday, but time got away, Thankfully today , I had jury duty(yes, I must be a commie for saying that) and the parties settled, so I got an extra day off!

We don't need no Dead white men...

I picked up a book by Karen Armstrong, Visions of God: Four Medieval Mystics and Their Writings
In it, she profiles four medieval mystics and their writings: Richard Rolleand the fire of love, The author of the Cloud of Unknowing, Walter Hilton and the Ladder of perfection, and Julian OF Norwich and the revelations of Divine love
Needless to say, I was really struck by their writings. particularly the last two. I think a lot of time, we tend to think that whatever's new is the best. And then there the camp that say the good old days were the best and never will return.
Me, I'd be delight if I could a service where we sang both a Mighty fortress is Our God, by Martin Luther and Lord, We Lift Your Name on High
, but it seem we get one or the other. Which is too bad, because one ignores the past (and remember what George Santayana had to say?), while the other ignores Changes in Society, (you can't preach to choir all the time)
I actuallu got out and rode today! onely 45 miles, but still, and made to St Mark tiwice
, Yes, i lnow I was going to blog about prayer, and my rule of prayer, Maybe we'll get started tommorrow

The fall into Grace

Well Last Saturday, I was trucking down Summit in North Fontana doing about 20 MPH, when BAM! I was was on the ground. It looks the developer hadn't paved the street right, and Of course I hit the joint just right..
So, I haven't been on the bike the bike snice. I may get back on in a week or two.
This, of Course, got me thinking(doesn't take much, you know) It seem like Biking has taken a big role in my life, like almost too big of role. Since we had thick morning fog last Saturday. I almost stayed home, I've been meaning to do some quite time in line with spiritual exercises for discernment.
So today, I went to Eucharist and I'm doing meditation till the sun goes down. and I'm not missing the bike.
although I've been thinking that all the "competition" on the web sites has really sucked the fun out of biking.
So starting in2008, I'm not going to do any of the "metric of the week" contests, and you''ll probably be able to read my bike journal (yes, I'll still log my miles, in a private manner.)
So yes, I did fall into Grace!
FHS,
Jana

what do you want to do?

I was thinking about this on the drive home last night. I did not get home until about 10:40.
I could check my e-news ,or pray. In the end, I did both, but didn't ride this morning.
So, I choose what I wanted. Or did it choose me? I know I've got some ambitious plans, but it's Really about putting first things first. but we're human (should have prayed and ridden my bike)
So, what Do you want?

Is simpler better?

I thought of this on the train in today. a little detour here
I had refactoring yesterday. One of the way some place try and improve their code via performance enhancement. That taking and existing application(Like in refactoring) , and making it run faster(versus in refactoring, where the object is to make the codes intent more clear).
So which path is better? each has its place, but at the same time I'm still debating which has its place in my prayer project.
One of thing I started doing is making a to-do of my "Godly" inspired tasks. Got lots to do, so I may let go until the next post
FHS,
PS I like the KISS philosophy, so I think you can guess which side I'm on.

I'm offical

Spent a Busy day today becoming a member of Daughters of the King.
But, it was good.
I had meant to post more on prayer, but didn't.
I was thinking on how much there on the 'net and thee real world about what to prayer for, but how little resources there is on how to pray, it's like we as Christians are all members of the parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Responsibility in Lake Woebegone and all our children are above average(yes, I like wikipedia)
So maybe I'm on the right track. I'm also a be big fan of CQI, and in the computer world, what called refactoring, both approaches, in mind, say that even if some works just fine, you should be striving to make things better. If you boss isn't happy with just good enough, why do think God should be?
To me, a rule of Prayer should cover these basics:
1 Confession, as humans, we are not perfect, I'm always reminded of this passage from 1 john I actually like the NRSV version the best , but I can't find it on the net (darn Copyright laws!)
2. Praise. - everyday is a gift, and we should be appreciative.
3. Intercession. I suspect this i where most be people spend their time, trying to God to do what they want. (hint: try the other way around)
4. Discernment- what may be called waiting for God to speak, or trying to discern his word to us. Hard stuff but rewarding. If you don't make to read scripture on a daily basis, I'd urge you to. A chapter a day won't take you that long. and it is hard in our culture to surrender an hour of quite time
I'm going to try and go in to more mere detail when I have time, but let start with the basics
Find a comfortable place. I don't think you have to kneel and wear hair shirts, but I also don't think you pray'n'drive either.
Time is important. We talk about giving a tenth of income to our congregation/parish, but have thought about giving a tenth of your time? I try and shout for an hour or two of God time a day. It gets to be a challenge, but so is any endeavour worth doing.
Bicycling related: I seem to wound in the middle of RalieghDon - Pansy "war: I did tow metric last weekend, I actually made good time on Saturday, and I was even working as a ride marshal at the Tour De Foothills

The circle of prayer

One of the thing That I've been investigating is what I call "prayer metrics". That how do we quantify what we pray about? I know, it's a real slippery slope. But I was looking at more from my experiences at sites like bikejournal.com , where people use their stats to encourage and motivate each other, and how I could translate that into prayer without going off the deep end.
I'' admit I'm not an expert on all form of prayer, I knew that the Catholics had various devotional prayers such as the rosary.
doing some research on the rosary, I ran across Anglican Prayer Beads, so I ordered a set.
I wound getting them from a group of Episcopal Hermits in Texas. You'' remember that I've been contemplating the religious life? I'm not quite sure my current calling as I understand allows me to be hermits, but you do have to be open to the call.
more Later, time to go to to work. I woke up to late to go bike riding, so decided to put the time to good use,

Veni , Vedi, Vomiti

Well, I did go to bar Camp, I went to two or three session, had a blast, but my nose and something in place did not agree, which was a shame, since the two session I wanted to attend, one by my friend, Donna, and one by Richard Stallman and actually they were both speaking at the same time. Some times you can't have what you want

be careful what you ask for......

I think you'll remember that I got my idea for my mission statement a few posts back.
Well, I've also been working on my resume. Not that I'm going anywhere, but It's something I like to do. I was going to run it by a recruiter friend today, but he had to cancel.
so he told about barcamp, and the one in Los Angeles. In the tone of "it'll be good of you to come".
So Now, Ive got to make sense out of my weekend without it turning in to too much work. It's a short weekend, which means I shouldn't really be blogging. And I've got Church duties on Sunday, so I can't camp out.
But how does this fit in with our plan? Well, remember I thought was being called to check out the "web 2.0" stuff for a possible Christian slant? And what falls in to my lap?
see you Sunday. Maybe I'll get a a ride in.

so, what would Jesus ride?

I was thinking about Bruce's Post and the what would Jesus drive? campaign.
So what would Jesus. Bruce makes a good point with the Rivendell, and you could even make a case for my old Cannondale. After all, he is very concerned with social Justice things. And a Carbon
"racer boy" bike sounds an awfully lot like what the Pharisee would ride.
This verse came to me on the train.
Hmm.. what kniod of bike would cause such divison? maybe this one? after all, This isn't really our home, and recumbents do cause a furor among "serious" cyclists.
but doesn't the old saw say "be in the world, but not of the world"(hep, Cuz, I need the verse :)). Maybe a 'bent isn't really in the world.
So what's the answer? I don't know. I 'm thinking of the portraits of Jesus in the church where I grew up. I always refer to them as "Nordic Jesus" and "Celtic Jesus". Not many blondes and redheads in the middle east, is there?
And that's the rub. The world intrudes and discolors our portrait of him. The problem is finding that still, small voice.

Handmade in the USA?

If you're into bicycling, you might recognize that as a company's slogan
So yeah my bike's are made by workers who are fairly paid, too. it's just there not made out of steel. And the cost wasn't bad.
Let's expound on theme. I had to buy a new wheel for the R1000, It was assembled here in RC, so it's American, right? But what about the rim (Australia), spokes(Switzerland) , or hub and gears (Japan). And which is a more American car, a Honda built in Ohio, a Chevy built in Mexico, or my car a Ford built in Michigan, but designed in Germany?
So yes, simplicity is good, but at times it's hard to find.
Burce I like your bible passage . we had this one. We use the lectionary, so we can't pick and choose. wonder why one of those guys the devil would have a harder time with, the Pharisee or the Publican?

simply Complex

I've been thinking on this, especially since I admitted to admiring St. Francis and a life of simplicty. Then Bruce started e-mailing theological questions.
But Bruce rides a Rivendell. if read the sales pitch, then everything was bliss back during the 70's, right?
I'll agree that American Bicycle market is overly marketed to the "wannabee" racer types. but if you look at their prices. not quite so simple, eh?
I was thinking that maybe it's part of the neo-retro trends that automakers seem to be indulging in. an som of these seem to in the same market as Rivendell, - look at the Nissan Figaro or Mitsuoka
Can't be help but be struck by the paradox of simple, but complex you tried being marketed to , but wind buying the message that speaks to you. Life's a mess, eh?
The answer is really that we're listening to the world, instead of the still, small voice.

why do bad things happen to good people

My church is having a study group on the book "encountering evil". I had meant to attend, but got too busy.
Anyways, yesterday, I was out for a ride. The City Of Fontana, had done some construction on one of perm routes. and I wanted to make sure it was still rideable.
However, yesterday, was the Start of the Santa Ana season. I almost gor blown over on the Pacific electric trail , but kept on going. It got a little better ion Etiwanda, but I thought I saw a dust devil as I went under the 15 at Victoria.
Then I had a flat. which was good, beacuase the dust devil turnef into this.
So, some times , the lesser evil stops us from encoutering a greater evil.

so ,what is sin?

I was thinking about this.
Recently some one posted something on bikejournal.com. I was first to respond, and noticed that the poster had used some word definitely not associated with "Family Friendly", not mention that the poster was a member of the international Christian Cycling Club. while the post has been clean up , it got me thinking about the emails Bruce841 and I have been exchanging. To quote Bruce "I think that, like the man born blind in John 9, we have to see Jesus for who he really is, and trust him. John 14:6

Jesus asks the same question of his friends, "Who do you say I am?"

I think discerning and following are the essence of living the Christian life, but not soteriologic in nature. Once a person has the indwelling presence, they are able to yield to Him and filled with that Spirit."
So if we have the indwelling spirit, then why do do fall into sin like Paul? If god is with us, then he should prevent this, right?
On reflection, part of it is that we are too stubborn to listen. It does take a lot to hear that still, small voice calling, especially when the world has a megaphone.
Now to medtitate.
FHS,
Jana

Notita, Assenus, Fidiciua

Recently, Bruce841 from Bikejournal.com left a note on my blog. Today he e-mailed me with this:
Jana:

Hope this day finds you well. So, what do you think a person needs to know in order to have saving faith? What did the malefactor who hung beside Jesus know? What about Luther's construct of "noticia, assensus, fiducia?"
What do you think?

Blessings

Bruce
so looked this notitia, Assenus, Fiducia up. and did some research.

here's what I cam up with:
Brain hurts.... :)
Sounds Corny, but knowing Christ is the Son of God is all The notita required. You ever find curious that Luke is only Gospel author that has the criminal praising Jesus? Matthew and Mark have both of them cursing Jesus.
back to the subject at hand
assenus - I would intrepid that as Following God's Lead. It not so much invite god into our lives,(also bad theology) but asking God what we can do for him.
Fiducia - As children of God, we're invited to set up God's kingdom here:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matt%206:9-13&version=46
familiar, but not?, and it's dependent on the other two (we have to accept Christ , and then be willing to discern his will and follow..)
Not bad, first time I had ran across that!
Reminds me of a newsboys song, reality. hard but easy.
Sometimes you have to be a fool in the world's eyes

good things happen to those who wait..

I decided to do a 200K brevet this morning. I drove down to San Diego , and it was drizzling all the way down. I had looked at the weather forecast before leaving, and it looked like it would clear off, Wrong!
I go to the start location right at the start time(the trolley stop in Old Town), I needed to use the bathroom real bad.... Unfortunately, they were all locked!
So I started out. I found a quickie mart and used theirs. I had though about going in the woods, but I really need to use some toilet paper to ensure a comfortable ride
I pedaled past Mission bay and then got on what has to be the world's worst bike path. Trees root growing through the pavement, blind curves, a Homeless encampment under a bridge, plus it ended in a flight of stairs
Sound like fun? Did I mention the weather forecast said the rain would end? well instead it started pouring. I was pretty miserable and thought about turn around.
The rain finally started to let up at Oceanside. Going through Camp Pendleton, I started to met ride from an MS150 going the other way. I got out of the base and rode the old 101/coast Highway to San Clemente. where The control and turnaround was at a Carl's Jr(think Hardee's if you're in the Midwest or East Coast). Most Carl's have a mexican sub-menu. I had a burrito platter (had to get my much Frijloes for the way back . It reminded for an Auto shop that I used to live by that claimed to specialize in Foreign and Domestic Autos, I always wanted to my car by - as at the time I had a Mercury built in Mexico with an Australian body and a Japanese engine.
Anyway, the way back!
The weather was clear.
I rode a places called Swami's . it's named after an Indian guru who had a Taj-mahol like palace built for him in the 1930's
I stopped at a 7-eleven in Encitas to refuel, and Finally Came to my nemesis, The Torrey Pines climb.
It gains about 500 feet in about a miles. I tried a little game. The climb is bit deceiving , as it has a sharp curve about halfway up, just enough to demoralize you. So , i kept that mind, and tried to conserve my effort, and I was up it no time. and no let down rounding that curve.
It was downhill the rest of the way. I did a victory loop of Fiesta island and turned in my card. This got me over 6,000 miles for the year and I'm now eligible for the R-1000 (1000 kilos in Randonees in a single year.
Finished off the day by watching the Thunderbirds perform at the Miramar air show
Today, I skipped church(yes, my bad) and did a ride with some ladies from Team Estrogen . We did a loop around Griffith Park.
So ,what do these have in common? I had thought trying to pull off a Team E ride here for a while, but wasn't if everyone wanted to come out here. And I creatian wasn't reaching Thunderbird speed going up Torrey Pines. As as a matter of Fact, I did it slower. But I made without taking a break!
I think we caught up in the "get it now" and fail to realize that Life's(and God) is more about thise small, slow moments...
Now to work on that Fleche cue sheet....
Here's hoping you find the off ramp to the Freeway of Life.

The pray of Jabez and Coherence

I've been the bible a chapter a day, I'm in Chronicles, and ran across the Prayer Of Jabez. I'm sure you're familiar with this little Ditty. if not, follow the link. What struck me was how out of place it seemed. Chronicles is largely a Story of how Israel and Judah became failed states under a Monarchy. I like to that a typical passage is "King Whosit was the most evil in the history of Israel. He led his people into abominable sin, and put Asherah poles on every street corner. He ruled for a year, and was assassinated by his son Whatshisname, who was even more. Fun reading, isn't it?
So , what do we make of this bright spot in a Doom and Gloom book? You could ague that the Chronicler was show that god would prosper those who are faithful to him. And I think that this is what the author had in mind. If you look at the few time when the Kingdoms had Faitful leadership they prospered, otherwise, it's pretty much gloom and doom.
And Jabez really asking for the proverbial Mercedes-Benz? once again, the passage by itself does seem to lend itself does seem to endorse the "prosperity gospel" . But what's meant by "enlarging my territory"? Maybe Jabez was asking for more responsibility, not more wealth ( I'm thinking of today's Gospel reading.)
I've always been taught that Gospel should have a high degree of coherence. And while at first, it does seem wildly out of place, it does fit in the Grand Scheme of things

The Plan has a name...

You may recall that I've been reading Tom and Chirstine Sine's Living on purpose: Finding God's Best for Your Life.
Well I got stuck on the mission statement. Which is sorta key. Until a couple of Nights ago, when doing some contemplative prayer and it came in.
Re-imagining God's word for New Media(or worlds, I 'm still wait for guidance there)
Now , some of you may be getting stuck on the re-imagining part. After all, isn't God's word unchanging? (you may want to start reading Walter Brueggemann if think you so). No, that isn't quite what I had in mind.
If you hang around the 'net a lot (which I assume your do, you are reading this blog, no?), and particularly if you work in IT, you'll term web 2.0 bandied about. It refers to blog, forums, and social networking. It occurs to me that I've really seen very little of it done from mainline-liberal Christian perspective. And I do have some ideas that would fit in, Granted I've still got more to learn, both Christ-wise and Tech-wisem, but It helps to know where you going before you get there.
Another thing I'm doing is that I'm preparing for admission to the Daughters of the King. It's hard to describe what it is . I'll say it's a lay religious order, but that'll probably conjure up images of a Habits and rulers and celibacy(I didn't spend ten years working for Catholic orders for nothing). so, don't start calling me "Sister Jana" yet.
Well not quite, we do agree to abide by a rule of life (or this). and it's not as hard as it sounds.
Basically, our rule (I've been at this for two years) is composed of rule of prayer and a rule
of service. you may have guessed the service part of my rule, and i'm already on the prayer rule.
And as far as the "sister" , you never know. I can recall hearing the small voice on meeting some folks in orders, and I've always felt drawn to Francis Of Assisi. Of growing up close by the St Francis River and
the St Francois Mountains probably
I may do some blogs on DOK as I get closer to admission.
FHS,

Try, Try again

As you may know , I tired to do my own perm in heat of july , and gave up.
Today, I tried my other route.
I rode over to the coffee shop, got a diet coke , and started on my way to riverside., pretty much the same route as the other perm.
Cruised down Mission Blvd into Downtown Rubidoux, past Mt Rubidoux, the Mission Inn, and UCR before Climbing up to Alessandro Blvd
When I got to Moreno valley and Alessandro blvd, I turned east instead of west. Here's a pic from the first rest stop:

I remembered RaleighDon from BikeJournal.com's advice about Payday bars, so I got one. Soon I was out of Moreno Valley and had this awesome view of the Badlands.

and a lake:
Gliman Springs Road wasn't too bad except for the traffic. The only real problem is a place called Golden Era Productions. While it sound like a run of the mill move studio, it's actually the wold headquarters for the Church of Scientology. It is very pretty, but they have security cameras all over the place. Apparently, the last guys who did the got turned away by the CHP due to a protest. Needless to say I didn't take very many. Here's a good article.

This is one from further down the down the road:













I Then went through the Soboba Indian reservation. They have a very nice Golf course(at least I think it's theirs) and De Rigeur casino
here's the San Jactino river. I've never seen it with water in it:

I stopped in Hemet at the 7-eleven. I had a burrito, a quart of chocolate milk, and another payday!
Here's the train station:

I went back to Riverside via the Romona expressway.If you've done the Hemet double or single centurys, you've done this road here's a picture of the Bernasconi Hills.

I went thourgh Mead Valley and my next control was at a Ralphs supermarket. They were out of paydays, so I had to settle for a baby Ruth. Darn!
I was soon on one of my favorite streets, Victoria Street in Riverside:
My next control was at Circle K in Corona. Strange things were not afoot, and my two most excellent friends, Bill and Ted, were nowhere to be found.
I then did the long climb back to Cucamonga.
I've gotten some grief from folks about having a control two miles from the end. I did it because the direct rout takes you past Ontario Mills Mall. I stopped and picked a Payday(what else?)
I was going to get a latte when I got back but I decided to get a Diet coke and home.
... and whose say forums are a waste of time?
BTW
Total miles 140 Total time 11 hours (I rode from home)

The smarter I get, the stupider I become...

I'll admit, I was a bit puzzled by the bible readings this past Sunday. I usually go to the early service and get to hear the sermon and the associated readings before the study we usually only cover the gospel reading. Once I got to church, I was confronted with Luke 16. As you may have guessed, it 's quite an interesting passage. Is Jesus saying to cheat your through life?. Well, some answers were provided by the service, as the Lectionary has it paired with Amos 8(definitely not pro-commercialism), 1st Timothy, and Psalm 138..
I was think about how the Lectionary readings have a theme. Amos and the Psalm serve as a good complement to the Gospel, and Timothy is sort about priorities.
But still it doesn't make sense. I'm thinking about my Java Studies, At times it seems like the more I learn, the more I need to know. I was trying to use Lucene as a search engine, and couldn't get the examples to work. I think It's a classpath error, but I think I've got them set right. Maybe I''l import it in to eclipse to see if I can get to work.
Always fun to stretch your brain

when a Date is not a Date

I've been playing with Java some more. Specifically I'm trying to do some thing to make my life easier.
What happens is that I maintain the test Database at work . The case expire after a week , and I'm try to come up with a better way of viewing the data.
My first thought was to store the data in a SQL database I read in the a date and tried to store it. Turns a Java.util date is different that a Java SQL date. so I needed to cast it.
And i turn out, that I'm just going to "store" it as plain text, since I'm probably going to be using XML to store the data. No need to persist the data.
But yet, I still worked on getting my casting code right when I didn't need to. It was fun and hood practice, and sometimes , things don't need a "payback". I recent bought a child's flute )well, actually a recorder because I've want to learn more about music. Currently, my neighbors probably think I'm torturing cats. I really don't think I'll ever play in public, but still, it fun, and I'm learning things.
So in short. do what you love, love what do, and it'll all work out. Hopefully
Ps. here's a good blog post to get you thinking:
Kathy Sierra #1

The Silver Streak to Olvera Street

I had a dinner with the Linux Chix at Olvera Street (You can also Try this link)
I would usaully take Metrolink in , as Olvera Street is right across the Street from Los Angeles Union Station (or this one) but is was the weekend. I Could leave here about 2 and get there about 3, which would leave me plenty of Shopping time before dinner at 4. The only problem was that there was a Train back at 6 or 9, which meant I could have plenty of downtime.
Fortunately, a local bus agency has started running an express service called the Silver Streak it has much more frequent service, at a lower cost. The only catch I could see was that it took longer.
So I paid my two bucks and climbed aboard. As you can see from the image, the bus isn't silver. And it sure didn't streak down the 10. We got to make a detour to downtown Pomona, (Take a leave it Beaver set and replace the English signs with Spanish). and a Trip by West Covina mall, and the El Monte Bus station.
we got there, I got some shopping, and I had an excellent dinner and great conversation at La Luz Del Dia , which included being serenaded by a really bad Mariachi band.
at 5:30 the dinner was over. I had to decide on the bus or the train again. I decided to take the bus, alhough we got stuck in a traffic jam, so it was a wash.
So Pros: Less expensive ($4 vs $12), more frequent service
Cons: slower, less deluxe accomdations
Olivera Street Images licensed under Creative commons
Silver Streak GNU Public License

The Road not taken

I started out toady thinking I was going to ride up to the Lytle Creek firing range. Once I got to the 15 and Sierra, I saw that the road to Glen Helen Park was open. So I took the road not taken. it was great.

I pressed on through Devore and found myself on old route 66. I road up to till the 15 . with just myself for company and plenty of trains.
It was fun and got me to thinking about Mr Frost and his poem. at times we keep on taking the same road over and over aging, when we would be be much happier and have better success at life by taking the road less traveled.
Speaking of which, I'm not riding my bike tomorrow. Gadzooks! what I am doing? check in on Sunday...

why we don't GMR in the summer:

I was going to do a moonlight double metric , but my ride partners backed out, and I didn't think I should tray and pedal through downtown Rubidoux at 10PM. I was getting a little bore with the club, and decided that I hadn't done Glendora Mountain Road in long time, so I headed out that way.
I pedal by the Mc Donalds at Foothill and lone hill in Glendora. I was hearing that still, small voice that was telling me that I should and refill my Camelback, Did I/ Nooo!:(
I made up to the shed in record for me! and I passed a couple of folks on bikes (usually I'm the passee) woohoo!:) :) I stopped at the shed and had some Sharkies, and then continued on to Glendora Ridge Road.
I was doing until Got past the halfway point. I ran out of water and I had forgotten my endurlytes(salt tablets) . I started cramping real bad. I could walk, and the heat I think had something to do with it, and I was just before you start to descend to Cow Canyon saddle, so I walked:( . Took it easy until I got into the baldy village, and then got a refill of my Camelback, some powerade, and some "prune juice"(aka regular Dr Pepper). Refreshed I bombed down mt baldy road.
When I got ready to turn to go home, I had a dilemma: I had promised to ride for Mary9761's on Team E and BikeJournal's birthday,, and I only had 55 miles. So i went over to Hermosa and down to 8th before heading
Miles 63
Time don't ask:o

Th e company you keep

Since I'm getting focused on the whole branding and marketing thing, you may have noticed that this is tag line for the New York Life. I find it interesting that we as a society use ad tag lines as a shortcut.
As an example, During a recent bible study, the leader asked a question. One the individuals replied “just do it!” I'm just as guilty, as I replied to a later question with “Grab life by the horns!”
And as I said in a previous post, sometimes the important message isn't the one you should bring home. Yes, The folks behind the ad would like it if we remember that New York Life has been here for a long time and is a good place to invest your money. And I'm not disputing their point.
But what about your circle of friends? And their friends? If you've read this far, you know I'm a cyclist. Does this mean I'm a pill-popping lunatic on a 'roid rage? Hardly. You may have stumbled across this blog from an Internet forum . And if so, you've probably noticed that old Fredwina is conspicuous by her absence on those. It's not that I'm not aware of them, It's that I read them and determined that I really don't want to be associated. Yes, I'm aware that forums are supposed to be private, but have you ever tried to find the “Right to privacy” explicitly stated in the U.S. Constitution? I would suggest you try to. You might be surprised.
So, the point I'm aiming at is that people will judge by the company you keep. Ride around in Tight sorts and pretend that you're doing the tour? You must have EPO at home. Post on site where it seems everyone verbally beats everyone down? Must not be a nice person. Yes, I know you can't judge a book by its cover, but to large extent, that's what branding encourages And I'm not sure there is a solution, beyond keeping in mind that we are in 24/7/365 marketing situation.

God's Goals

As you may have noticed, I'm slowly (but surely) making my way through Tom and Christine Sine's :
one of thing thy recommend is that you write what you think God's Goals for the world are:
Here goes nothing
God's Goals for the world
Everyone is welcome at God's Table, whether we like it or not!
This is our Father's world! We are only tenants here, and it is our duty to “leave no Trace”
Under God there is no North or South
War isn't in God's Plans
with God, worry is not defined. But, we are human, we take God's prefect creation and ruin it – look at Communism – Soviet Style
our Bodies are God's temple, They are on loan from God , too.
We must take care of God's property, or he will evict us.
Be Brave. The world relies on us to do the expected, but the word call to do the unexpected.
How do we take “The Status Driven life” and turn it in to “the God filled life”
Branding is a disease, but is also a vital part of how we communicate. Witness the popularity of “indie” rock, no-name brand, and viral marketing.
The “digital divide” should not exist.

So, the next step is figuring out my talents. Obviously, I like writing, whether it be in English or Java(tm). And I like bicycles. Actually, I like being outside, generally. But, sometime the obvious message isn't what we're supposed to come away with.

Fredwina does her own perm

No, I', not talking one of those Toni home perm kits. Randoneurrers USA will allow to ride a set route for Brevet credit. I was going to ride a different route, but some one wanted to ride my routes, so I decided to may sure everything was OK. The results: well, The one time I had given myself a home perm, I drove home the next day. My parents next door neighbor was a hair dresser and 10 minutes after I had stepped out of the car, I was in a chair at the Lora-Don Beauty Salon;)
The start is about 6 mile from my place. I decided to ride over. I got there exactly at the right time.
I took off and was soon at the edge of Riverside, Here's a picture of Mt Rubidoux:
and here Is the world-famuous Mission inn The Interior is to die for, but I didn't think they would let me in:

I then pedaling through the Uc-Riverside experimental farms:

These were for nematode research:

I then climbed up to Alessandro blvd., which was followed by a quick descent to Victoria Street. Nothing like 10 miles of this:
I stopped at Circle K car in Corona, fought some traffic, and was soon making way back up to Ontario. I saw some plane take off at the airport, and was soon at my next Control Rancho Carwash and Lube; I think it's called that because Rancho Cucamonga Carwash, Quick lube, Mini Mart, Taco Stand, and Self Storage wouldn't fit on a business license
I was doing good with tiem I had 70 miles and it was only 12:30. The taco satnd was closed:( so stopped by the Casa Fredwina for a pizza:) . I was soon on my way.
Here's the Claremont Colleges:
and the oldest tree in LaVerne
I started to fight 16mph headwinds to get down to Azusa. It also got hot. I was fine going down:
The course only has 4000 feet of climbing, but half of that is in the last 30 miles. That and the heat did a number on me . I stopped at a Mini mart at Base Line and Carnelian and got some Gatorade and Chocike milk. I considered going home, as I was about a mile away(plus a 250' descent:p ).
I pressed on, I was doing halfway good until I got to Cherry and the 210 in Fontana - the route goes up to Nealy's Corners(Sierra and the 15). I had a flat there, and the time in sun may have done me in. It was about 5:39.
I really didn't have on the climb. I stopped once where there was some shade , and it did a little a bit of good, but that was the last patch of shade I was also worried about getting back after dark as I didn't have my lights with me. So i came back. To 20mph winds.
what Happened. I changed my fuel to Accelerade, but I think that helped. Taste better(to me), but I should drank more of it. I also changed my pre-ride meal from Sizzler to Fazoli's, but I think I 'll change that back.
Actually, one of the things I was thinking(doing 12 hours are great for this kind of thing) about was that my life has gotten a little out of whack. Granted the job is crazy, but I won't go there(i assume most of you have not had your boss how you came up with your Handle), but It seems that doing the Ultra cycling is just too much of a time Drain (although I may do one or two more in the fall). I'm also now the leader of a Professional Organization. I'd like to restore some balance between Bicycle Fredwina, Religious Fredwina, and Career Fredwina. Esepically since Religious Fredwina and Career Fredwina have put there head together and came up with a nifty idea that needs some research. Don't worry, I still be boarding, and Blogging, and Journaling, but it looks the R-12 is going by the wayside

you do race , don't you?

I got asked in a car coming back from a church committee meeting. I always find it interesting that most people here in the States seem to associate "serious" bicycling with racing. It may that their only exposure comes around this time of year.
What time of year is it? It's Tour De France time. and like a cyclist, I stick my fingers in my ears if I haven't had chance to see it. Well... not really. I actually missed the watching any stages there days this week, and I'm really not interested. Granted, I do check the net, so I know who won, and as far as the drug scandals - if you shine a light on some roaches, it'll seem like they're multiplying. but still, I'm not adhering to the mad cyclist sterotype.
So, where I'm going? Well I've been thinking about Branding in our society. Not the kind with cattle irons. Is a Lexus ES better than a Toyota Camry? Mechanically, they're the same basic car. But, you probably associate the Lexus as being a bit more desirable.
A lot of our society is Consumer driven, we want to associate with the "cool" brands. Witness The public perception of Walmart and Target. One is Hillbilly heaven, while the other is Tres' Chic, even though they often sell the same basic goods from the same suppliers. And I'm not saying "no Brand" is any better, since it seems like most marketing types are savvy enough to try and pitch their stuff as small company driven, rather than the reality of the mega-corp.
The trick is how to stay in the world while still not being of the world. A hard balance, but something I feel called to do. And it's tricky, because everything is marketing in our society.
An example: We at St. Marks's are looking buying reusable grocery bags. Canvas or plastic? Canvas seems so much more eco friendly, Doesn't it? But it's more expensive, and given the reaction folks has to buying Ikea bag for a nickel apiece, we would probably sell bags to those how already had some. And what about the fuel for Tractors and Cotton Pickers? and you do know what the modern raw material for most fertilizers, are (yes, you can get organic canvas, but at a higher price)? So, what's best for creation now?
And yes i', making progress on this mission statement from God thing. I actually manage to write what God's goals for us are. Now I need to find out my talent, and merge the tow together

inadvertently doing the right thing

As you probably figured, I 'm still struggling with the old “what I am here For” question.
On a professional note , I'm going to try and start lean Software design patterns. The LA JUG is offering a class , and it's actually on THIS side of the 405! woohoo! And They're using the Head First series of books, which is one of my Favorites. I could not find the book here at the megastore(As I Type this, I thought I should have checked at Cal Poly or the Claremont colleges), so I surfed over to Amazon.com . One of thing most people aren't aware of is that Amazon has partner stores. I found a Cheaper price at a “store” called Better World Books. I also ordered some more books by Christine and Tom Sine.
So , today, I finally surfed on over the Better world's Website. I was surprised (well, actually not).not only had saved some money(yes, the books are slightly used), but I managed to be socially responsible at the same.
Yes, I feel I'm being led down the social/environmental justice path. It's just how do take my talents and pay my bills??

Meeting God in the Ice Cream isle at Albertson's

I was shopping for groceries last night. when I looking at ice cream bar's Carly Simon's The Stuff that dream are made of started playing. As the regular readers know, I've been dealing with Discernment issues, and my aborning(stillborn?) mission statement. I really felt that the lyrics were saying something to me. I left like I was in a Episode of Joan of Arcadia
So what does it say? On the surface, it's a "stand by your man" song. but, as befits a member of the Episcopal Church USA and the Anglican Communion, let's dig a little deeper
Remember when I posted about looking at the Lord's Prayer in a whole new light? One of Tom and Christine Sine's is that we are called to create God's kingdom here - not in some post-rapturous world. I'm also thinking about the "Prosperity Gospel".
Too often we overlook that God is really in charge here - we just make a mess out of things. Then, we seem that what we think is best for our lives is the same as what God thinks. Surprise! So, one of things that I've been doing is listening for that still small voice to see what somebody else's ideas are and remembering that to gain one's life , you must first lose it.
And above all , don't worry! it's all for the best

the dream of the pink gloves

I have been my confirmation gift,Prayer on wings: a search for authentic prayer BY Carolyn Stahl Bohler.
I tried her "piggy who had none" approach of mediating and letting your mind wander. Strangely, what came into view was a pair of pink gardening gloves I had bought. I tried to form a connection with a aborning mission statement, but could not. Although think tonight, maybe it has to do with ecological concerns. I've just bought a set of reusable grocery bags(much recommended) and have been replace my regular bulbs with Compact Florescents.Of course I've also been thinking about consumerism and Christianity. Maybe I've been reading too many forums with topics like "i just bought (insert insanely expensive item here)!!!!!!!!". But then again, where did I got find a link for gloves? www.target.com :)
Peace

My first JUG

Or Java User's Group
Actually, it wasn't. I had been to the Harrisburg JUG and the LAJUG, but this was first meeting for the San Gabriel Valley JUG, of which Moi is the leader.
I got to the library early and got everything set up. waited around for what seemed like forever, and finally had a good crowd, I had honestly only expected 10 peope, and had about 20. The only thing was David Noble, who was supposed to the presenter, was not there on time. H showed up about 5 minutes late.
Dave's presentation was excellent, Gareth Chan from Tek Systems ordered some pizza, and everyone had a good time. Plans were made for even more meetings :) Yea!

Get a Perm on your bike and lose your identity

Now, Most of you thinking a perm is something you get at the Hair Salon, right?
Randonuerrs USA (RUSA) has a class of rides called permanents. They're like Brevets, only except you can do them at any time. The gang from BikeJournal.com got me in to trying to go for the R-12 medal(one brevet a month for a year). I signed up for the coastal cruise , which goes from Old Town San Diego to Laguna Beach. I needed to do at least 200K to qualify, and this was 230K .
I work up early , and drove down to San Diego. I made a brief side trip to 6th Street next to Balboa park to see if the apartment building that my Mom and Dad lived in during the Korean conflict was still there. it wasn't. I found that Gas Station that was the start of the Control. I had to drive a mile to park my car at the Trolley station. I then rode back, bought something from the Shell, and started out.
If you've done the Orange County Wheelmen's Amtrak Century, you've seen the route. I went by Mission Bay, and the UCSD campus, and got to do down Torrey Pines road (whee!). I was passed by all the fast roadies and triathletes doing the Swami's Ride. I was in Oceanside in no time. So far so good.
I stopped at the gate for Camp Pendleton and showed the Marine my ID. The next 6 miles were thruough the base. after that , I rode on the closed 101 higway through San Onofre State Beach. I stopped at a Bagel Shop in San Celemente and had lunch.
The only real problem I had was in Dana Point . the cue sheet had and error in it. I figured it out, but then I had to a climb on Pacfic Coast Highway(PCH), a Busy highway. and this section did not have any bike lanes! I had some rollers on this section
I got to the bike shop in Laguna beach that was the turn around point and discovered that I had lost my ID! . I looked there, but no deal, I also stopped by the bagel shop, but they didn't have it. I should have thought and seen if the Marines had a lost and found, but I decided to take the alternative to going through the base : Riding on the shoulder of Interstate 5. I had a still, small voice telling me to do this going north. But what's done is done. There was a traffic jam, so for a brief period, I was the fastest vehicle on the freeway!. I got off in Oceanside, and got stuck in a traffic jam on coast highway. I found the side streets and got going again. I was going to take pics on the way back, but I was more concered with my loss.
The ride is really easy back until Torrey Pines at mile 130. It's about a mile and half of 8% grade. I actually made it up without having to stop! I then took it easy on the downhill back to the car. Unforntaly, the space bar that I had been using for my lights broke. Thankfully, the STI cable caught it before it fell to the street
Yesterday, I had a sinus infection, so I didn't beyond calling the DMV and requested a duplicate ID.
what did I learn? Sometime it's hard for us to listen to the still, small voice. But, it's usually at those time that God is closest to us.
until Later,
Jana

Going Beyond the first impression

For whatever reason, I decided to ride my Bike Friday this morning, It's a heavier bike than my Cannondale road bike, and with the 20 inch tires, it's not a speed demon.
The result: I was 1 mph faster!
Goes to show, that at times, putting aside prejudgements is the best thing. I was think about since I'm working on discernment issues in my religious life, and how I work that out may affect the result of my life (hopefully).
Now, to get to work on my mission statement (from God, I am in a Blues Brothers movie?) I've got "to help god create his kingdom on earth", but the rest is a blank.
and yes, I'm back to the blog of the day.

seeming the familar for the first time

I've been reading a book, Living on Purpose: Finding God's best for your life by Tom Sine. It's like The Purpose Driven Life, but without the Fundamentalist Theology.
Anyway, Since I've been re-imagining my life, I've been looking to the bible for inspiration, I've been using The Contemporary English Version, which differs from what you'd normally find. Take Matthew 6:9-13:
You should pray like this:

Our Father in heaven, help us to honor your name.
Come and set up your kingdom, so that everyone on earth will obey you,
as you are obeyed in heaven.
Give us our food for today.
Forgive us for doing wrong, as we forgive others
Keep us from being tempted and protect us from evil.

Copyright © 1995 by American Bible Society.
Quite a bit different from that old King James, isn't it? Sometimes, we do need to look at life through a new lens.
Plagiarizing a Muslim co-worker,
Peace be among you.