That's right folks, after investing hundreds of dollars and countless hours, this barista has no need for the local coffee store. I sit here sipping an eggnog latte. Or at least that's what I call it. No half-caf, semi-sweet, no-fat, double shot $6.00 cup of coffee that won't be ordered correctly. Steamed Eggnog, a little whip cream and Rostov's Copenhagen blend. If you're in the RVA, this is where you should get your coffee. Tammy, and previously her Dad, have some awesome coffee. If you're ordering off the web to get fresh coffee beans, drive your ass down to the VCU area and visit Tammy. She's great, and the coffee is better.
The other day I mentioned I didn't get any cycling stuff for Christmas. Well, I forgot to mention a great DVD I got; "Breaking Away". Its a great movie and you can get it cheap now, so I did. I can't wait to watch it. (I also got Cannonball and Winning, but these are of even less interest to most).
After a week of semi-working, I went to Philly for the weekend. I'm sure (and I hear) that its a great city, but I go to visit in-laws, which severly limits the goodness. I never really get to see anything I'd like to. Well, I did get to the museum for an art show once. We stay in a working class section of town and it is less than inspiring for me. Best I can say is that it gives me an even better appreciation of where I grew up and the opportunities that have been afforded me. Frankly, I just don't *get* the north.
Every year all I hear about is the Mummer's Parade. We went once. It seems like Mardi Gras to me, but I just can't let loose and be as drunk as you need to be to be a part. It is something to see tho.
Two more days and its all over. The festive part of the year is done. Its a shame, really. For all the stress Christmas can put on you, I like it. I'd like it better if it would stay cold (my sinuses would like this as well), but c'est la vie. I'm the last guy to put my toys away and take down the tree.
And speaking of toys...
Rock Band is great. We've been playing quite a bit, but have yet to start an official game. The kid is doing a good job practicing drums. She's stuck with it, so I think she's having fun with it. Today she told a girl, "Don't tell anyone, but I'm a rock girl". HAHAHAHA. She was at the mall and bought a wallet....with pink skulls and crossbones. 'Cause she's a Rock Girl. Makes me laugh, but I remember at that age sitting in my room singing to my Partridge Family records.
I've had a blast with guitar hero, and mom was enjoying SingStar 80s. It was a Playstation Christmas.
Ok, TV ad getting to me. The Package Shark. This thing looks great! And if you order now....
Tomorrow will be bowling before settling in for some good cheese I got in Philly and some Champagne. Then, staying up all night playing Guitar Hero.
Maybe Richard will ride on Tuesday.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Sleep.....I Need Sleep
So, in addition to Christmas Eve excitement, we had a tooth fall out. It was quite the event. Kid has lost all her teeth at school at lunch. She won't pull them so they come out in her sandwich. Her PBJ. Yup, that's how loose they get. I had no idea how loose this one was. So after some hurt and a few tears, it was out. Then, off to bed.
I was annointed Santa and Tooth Fairy. So, we moved all the presents under the tree before bed. We had a present to put in her room, and of course I had to do the tooth swap. I was advised by wifey that I wait until later to make sure she was sleeping good. I went downstairs to watch A Christmas Story.
Around 11, I heard her door open. Panic.....I left a gift in the hallway. Crap. Too late now. So, I wait a few and go upstairs. It was still where I left it, so I hid it. Then I checked and she was in our bed with Mom. So, back downstairs I went.
At 2AM I went back up. She seemed asleep in our bed. I did the tooth swap, but realized I shouldn't do the gift because she might see it when I put her to bed and she knew I was still up..blah blah (I should note she only sort of believes in Santa. Next year gone for sure). Now I climb in bed and realize I need to put the gift in her room prior to sun up. So, I can't sleep and around 3:30 I go put it in. She sits up in bed. But nothing. Whew
BAck up at 8 for Santa. The rest of the day was great. Only downside, no biking gifts, but I really didn't need much. I'll end up worrying about it later.
Ok, I need to rest.
I was annointed Santa and Tooth Fairy. So, we moved all the presents under the tree before bed. We had a present to put in her room, and of course I had to do the tooth swap. I was advised by wifey that I wait until later to make sure she was sleeping good. I went downstairs to watch A Christmas Story.
Around 11, I heard her door open. Panic.....I left a gift in the hallway. Crap. Too late now. So, I wait a few and go upstairs. It was still where I left it, so I hid it. Then I checked and she was in our bed with Mom. So, back downstairs I went.
At 2AM I went back up. She seemed asleep in our bed. I did the tooth swap, but realized I shouldn't do the gift because she might see it when I put her to bed and she knew I was still up..blah blah (I should note she only sort of believes in Santa. Next year gone for sure). Now I climb in bed and realize I need to put the gift in her room prior to sun up. So, I can't sleep and around 3:30 I go put it in. She sits up in bed. But nothing. Whew
BAck up at 8 for Santa. The rest of the day was great. Only downside, no biking gifts, but I really didn't need much. I'll end up worrying about it later.
Ok, I need to rest.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Some Quick Universal Truths
1 - Bombay Saphire is best for martinis. If you think a martini is made with Vodka, click away now.
2 - The best shaker is the classic bullet. Stainless, hard and able to crack ice in a single bound. Be not afraid to shake as hard as humanly possible.
3 - You must use vermouth, otherwise you're drinking Gin on the rocks.
4 - Two olives are good, three rock. It is preferrable to use large, stuffed ones. Stuffed with most anything.
Carry on.
2 - The best shaker is the classic bullet. Stainless, hard and able to crack ice in a single bound. Be not afraid to shake as hard as humanly possible.
3 - You must use vermouth, otherwise you're drinking Gin on the rocks.
4 - Two olives are good, three rock. It is preferrable to use large, stuffed ones. Stuffed with most anything.
Carry on.
Twas the Night Before.....the night before
So, it seems Lightscribe might not be the most robust technology. It is great tho. I ended up buying another burner, that I've yet to install. Bought it locally so I could swap it locally in the short term should anything happen. Since I threw away my packaging, I can't return the new one. I still want to play with it a little more before I pull it out. I just so want it to be some driver issue, but I really think the deck isn't recognizing the lightscribe info on the media.
I'm teleslacking tomorrow. I do need to get some work done, but its easy for me to work from home, especially on a holiday week when there won't be so many folks around anyway. I can send out some emails I need to knock out. I just need to find something for the kid to do. Maybe I can bus in a friend.
Now, the ride report. I said that Thursday I did the muscle building bike routine, and sure enough on Saturday my thighs still hurt. It was looking like a spin day. Yet another chilly morning. I wasn't as cold this week, partially due to my new shoe covers I'm sure. I was a tad late getting there, which I hate. I'm, uh, slow getting ready to ride. I carry all my tools, a stand, pump, etc, everything. I really like taking my time getting ready, but it isn't always possible. Oh well, my neurosis can live to rear its head another day.
As soon as I got on the bike I could tell my legs hurt. Thankfully, spinning out of the parking lot warmed them up some and it was ok. It seems like its hard to ride fast in the cold anyway. Can't half breathe, snot running, etc. Its worth it tho. So we chugged on up to Ashland (after telling some guy that we'd never keep up with him) and had a nice ride. While a part of me misses humping the whole trip, its nice to do a regular pace. And, as I discovered on the ride back, my regular pace was about all I had. I decided to try and sprint some on the flat road and Richard took off with me. We were even the whole way and then my legs had just had it. That was all she wrote. Man, that sucked, I hate when I can't pass Richard. I think we're darn close in ability, which makes it fun.
A quick aside...I was in the back of the pack at the beginning of the ride. It is somewhat humerous to watch Richard and Diane as their styles are completely different. Diane rides in more of what I guess is a triathalon style. (I guess because A: I wouldn't really know, and B: the other Tri-Girls ride the same way). Basically they seem to get up into the big chainring, lean over onto that couch they call handlebars, and just push in a pretty even stroke and cadence. In contrast Richard stays in the middle chainring and spins like no tomorrow. Me? I'm not there yet. I spent last year spinning like Richard. Previously I hadn't had the fitness to do this. So, I worked on it and was pleased. Now I feel like I need more strength, so I'd like to push a bigger gear. We'll see.
So, we finished and were hanging in the parking lot talking. At some point Richard turns to me and says, "hey, I'm going to do a time trial up Wintergreen mountain. Wanna go?" My first response was pretty typical for me, "that's a pretty big hill, Richard". Then I said sure. What the heck has gotten in to me? First I say I'm going to do a century, now climb a mountain? Soon I'm going to have to alter my page like all my friends with the events I'm going to do. Meh. Natural progression I guess.
So Richard, when is that Blue Ridge Parkway ride?
I'm teleslacking tomorrow. I do need to get some work done, but its easy for me to work from home, especially on a holiday week when there won't be so many folks around anyway. I can send out some emails I need to knock out. I just need to find something for the kid to do. Maybe I can bus in a friend.
Now, the ride report. I said that Thursday I did the muscle building bike routine, and sure enough on Saturday my thighs still hurt. It was looking like a spin day. Yet another chilly morning. I wasn't as cold this week, partially due to my new shoe covers I'm sure. I was a tad late getting there, which I hate. I'm, uh, slow getting ready to ride. I carry all my tools, a stand, pump, etc, everything. I really like taking my time getting ready, but it isn't always possible. Oh well, my neurosis can live to rear its head another day.
As soon as I got on the bike I could tell my legs hurt. Thankfully, spinning out of the parking lot warmed them up some and it was ok. It seems like its hard to ride fast in the cold anyway. Can't half breathe, snot running, etc. Its worth it tho. So we chugged on up to Ashland (after telling some guy that we'd never keep up with him) and had a nice ride. While a part of me misses humping the whole trip, its nice to do a regular pace. And, as I discovered on the ride back, my regular pace was about all I had. I decided to try and sprint some on the flat road and Richard took off with me. We were even the whole way and then my legs had just had it. That was all she wrote. Man, that sucked, I hate when I can't pass Richard. I think we're darn close in ability, which makes it fun.
A quick aside...I was in the back of the pack at the beginning of the ride. It is somewhat humerous to watch Richard and Diane as their styles are completely different. Diane rides in more of what I guess is a triathalon style. (I guess because A: I wouldn't really know, and B: the other Tri-Girls ride the same way). Basically they seem to get up into the big chainring, lean over onto that couch they call handlebars, and just push in a pretty even stroke and cadence. In contrast Richard stays in the middle chainring and spins like no tomorrow. Me? I'm not there yet. I spent last year spinning like Richard. Previously I hadn't had the fitness to do this. So, I worked on it and was pleased. Now I feel like I need more strength, so I'd like to push a bigger gear. We'll see.
So, we finished and were hanging in the parking lot talking. At some point Richard turns to me and says, "hey, I'm going to do a time trial up Wintergreen mountain. Wanna go?" My first response was pretty typical for me, "that's a pretty big hill, Richard". Then I said sure. What the heck has gotten in to me? First I say I'm going to do a century, now climb a mountain? Soon I'm going to have to alter my page like all my friends with the events I'm going to do. Meh. Natural progression I guess.
So Richard, when is that Blue Ridge Parkway ride?
Friday, December 21, 2007
Some Relief
Well, better mood today. Yesterday was awful. I do it to myself, what can I say? Twisted Sister helped, but nothing could make up for the Medussa touch I was sporting yesterday.
I ended up hopping on the trainer last evening and doing the muscle workout. Yeow. I can't do the whole thing, much less the whole thing at a cadence that matters. Still, its bound to help. I need to build my legs up so I can muscle up the tough hills. I ride a double, and even with compact crank arms I have a tough time up really steep hills. So, I need muscle to be able to spin. I now need to do the spinning DVD. I guess eventually I'll get a recovery DVD and that should be good.
Anyway, I pushed as hard as I could, and felt it. This was followed by yet more packing and finally a little PC time. PCs are such a pain. I'm not sure what I did, but now I can't seem to burn Lightscribe labels.
( I have just turned on the "Like, Oh My God" Its the 80s box set. This should be good for a laugh. Man, I'm Hungry Like the Wolf now)
I don't know what I did to the PC, but I stayed up until 2 messing with it. I could have stayed up all night. I have a hard time making myself go to bed when I'm doing stuff like that. Thankfully, I'm not too tired today. Pretty dead here anyway. I'll have to go to bed on time tonight since I'm riding tomorrow.
Ok, feeling guilty. I need to go do something legit.
I ended up hopping on the trainer last evening and doing the muscle workout. Yeow. I can't do the whole thing, much less the whole thing at a cadence that matters. Still, its bound to help. I need to build my legs up so I can muscle up the tough hills. I ride a double, and even with compact crank arms I have a tough time up really steep hills. So, I need muscle to be able to spin. I now need to do the spinning DVD. I guess eventually I'll get a recovery DVD and that should be good.
Anyway, I pushed as hard as I could, and felt it. This was followed by yet more packing and finally a little PC time. PCs are such a pain. I'm not sure what I did, but now I can't seem to burn Lightscribe labels.
( I have just turned on the "Like, Oh My God" Its the 80s box set. This should be good for a laugh. Man, I'm Hungry Like the Wolf now)
I don't know what I did to the PC, but I stayed up until 2 messing with it. I could have stayed up all night. I have a hard time making myself go to bed when I'm doing stuff like that. Thankfully, I'm not too tired today. Pretty dead here anyway. I'll have to go to bed on time tonight since I'm riding tomorrow.
Ok, feeling guilty. I need to go do something legit.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Santa is an Anagram for Satan
This isn't the best time for me to be posting, yet here I am!
Damn season. Why is it many of us end up feeling worthless? Too busy? Why can some ignore this and move on and enjoy? For whatever reason this year feels worse.
Parties, parties, shopping, shopping, shopping, work, errands, trees, decorations, decorations for the tree, decorations for the house, cards, writing the cards, mailing the cards, mailing the presents, debt, debt, debt, disappointment and the long cold winter.
Time to up the prozac.
Truely it isn't that bad, but I just feel so terminally behind. Maybe I just need me time, which is really quite selfish since I get it. Maybe I just need my Saturday bike ride. I don't know. Wish I did.
The thing that cheers me up, however, is the following. Gives me a smile every time.
Damn season. Why is it many of us end up feeling worthless? Too busy? Why can some ignore this and move on and enjoy? For whatever reason this year feels worse.
Parties, parties, shopping, shopping, shopping, work, errands, trees, decorations, decorations for the tree, decorations for the house, cards, writing the cards, mailing the cards, mailing the presents, debt, debt, debt, disappointment and the long cold winter.
Time to up the prozac.
Truely it isn't that bad, but I just feel so terminally behind. Maybe I just need me time, which is really quite selfish since I get it. Maybe I just need my Saturday bike ride. I don't know. Wish I did.
The thing that cheers me up, however, is the following. Gives me a smile every time.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Cold!
So yes, Diane, Richard and I were joined by Trigirl 40 this cold morning for our Saturday ride (where I immediatly announced the obvious, IT COLD). I had on 2 pair of socks, toe covers, tights, undershirt, jersey, coat, glove liners, gloves, balaclava and sunglasses. I was still not warm.
We didn't ride real long. I haven't bothered to look at the stats, can't amount to much. Worst part is the large amount of snot involved. I'm not sure about all my double layering. My toes stayed warmer longer, but, when i got home they were at that "needles" point, you know, when they feel like someone sticking needles in your toes because they aren't numb enough for you to feel nothing. Fingers didn't get that bad. Of course, my new booties showed up in the mail today. Maybe next week.
The afternoon was spent doing laundry, putting the candles in the windows and putting lights in the tree. Yup, had the tree for a week and its still not decorated. There is just never enough time.
I snoozed after that. My head has been killing me. I hope its the front moving through so it will go away in a day or so.
Tonight brought Alvin and the Chipmonks. Wow, not so good. The kids like it, so that's good. I just thought it was pretty bad. But, there was some light...to bad it was at the beginning of the movie.
That's right. The trailers. We were there early because I didn't know if it would be crowded, so we saw every stupid ad. But, we saw the trailer for Speed Racer! I am SOOOOO excited for this. Next May. It looks great! Very stylized. It should rock. There is rumor that the next Fast and Furious will be out next summer as well. That would be awesome!
We didn't ride real long. I haven't bothered to look at the stats, can't amount to much. Worst part is the large amount of snot involved. I'm not sure about all my double layering. My toes stayed warmer longer, but, when i got home they were at that "needles" point, you know, when they feel like someone sticking needles in your toes because they aren't numb enough for you to feel nothing. Fingers didn't get that bad. Of course, my new booties showed up in the mail today. Maybe next week.
The afternoon was spent doing laundry, putting the candles in the windows and putting lights in the tree. Yup, had the tree for a week and its still not decorated. There is just never enough time.
I snoozed after that. My head has been killing me. I hope its the front moving through so it will go away in a day or so.
Tonight brought Alvin and the Chipmonks. Wow, not so good. The kids like it, so that's good. I just thought it was pretty bad. But, there was some light...to bad it was at the beginning of the movie.
That's right. The trailers. We were there early because I didn't know if it would be crowded, so we saw every stupid ad. But, we saw the trailer for Speed Racer! I am SOOOOO excited for this. Next May. It looks great! Very stylized. It should rock. There is rumor that the next Fast and Furious will be out next summer as well. That would be awesome!
Friday, December 14, 2007
>SIGH<
I'm floored. Can't write about it, but I'm floored. Those that know, know. I just can't believe it. I just needed to say it outloud.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Ebay
Ebay is one of the most fabulous inventions ever. I love it. Great for the collector, bargain hunter, and attic cleaner outer.
Until your done.
After doing some record lifts at the gym tonight, I spent the last 4 hours emailing, boxing, printing, weighing and taping. And I still have more to do.
Good night.
Until your done.
After doing some record lifts at the gym tonight, I spent the last 4 hours emailing, boxing, printing, weighing and taping. And I still have more to do.
Good night.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Tricks of the Trade
Had an experience tonight that made me think a little. I'm not always the best at putting together names and faces. Given that my name is Kermit, folks tend to remember the name. I'm also not real quick on my feet when it comes to recovering in public. I witnessed an awesome thing tonight that is so simple....of course I'll never apply it, but...
I grew up in the RVA. I left for about 7 years for school and partying, but I came back. When I went to work, it was for growing company. That's when it began. I was always running into people who I knew from high school.
When I started doing wedding photography, it only got worse. Now, I'm not one to go to HS reunions. There are plenty of people I'm curious about, but you never know if they're going to be there or not. And lets face it, sometimes the past is best left there. All too often it just doesn't live up to your memory.
(Wow, that sounds horrible. I don't mean it that way at all. Its just that the girl you had the crush on never ends up like you think she should have. People are always wanting to be your friend who didn't give you the time back in the day. Its hard to separate that from the folks you genuinly wonder about....especially when they may not give a rats ass about you).
Ok so back to what I learned. Tonight I ran into a guy I worked with in HS. We were friends, but you know, not buds. Probably partied some. I ran into him once in Charlotte while I was in school. How odd was that. After that time he achieved some fame, so naturally I remember him. Well, tonight he walked up and said hey, introduced his kid, etc. Very nice. So here's the trick. As we were talking, he's putting my name/email in his PDA. And here's what he said; "Kermit, how do you spell your last name?" How simple is that! There's no way he'd have remembered it anyway.
Not sure why I'm fascinated by this, but I am. Such a simple thing, and it doesn't come off as fake. This is a talent I do not have. Like, at my wife's company Christmas party, she's talking to this guy who says "I bet Kermit doesn't remember me!". Crap, what do you do then? Fact was I did recognize him, but couldn't come up with his name. Guess it wouldn't have worked to ask him to spell it, huh.
Ride. Saturday. Be there or be.....busy doing something important.
My tattoosake, Einsturzende Neubauten is playing in the backgound and is calling me.
I grew up in the RVA. I left for about 7 years for school and partying, but I came back. When I went to work, it was for growing company. That's when it began. I was always running into people who I knew from high school.
When I started doing wedding photography, it only got worse. Now, I'm not one to go to HS reunions. There are plenty of people I'm curious about, but you never know if they're going to be there or not. And lets face it, sometimes the past is best left there. All too often it just doesn't live up to your memory.
(Wow, that sounds horrible. I don't mean it that way at all. Its just that the girl you had the crush on never ends up like you think she should have. People are always wanting to be your friend who didn't give you the time back in the day. Its hard to separate that from the folks you genuinly wonder about....especially when they may not give a rats ass about you).
Ok so back to what I learned. Tonight I ran into a guy I worked with in HS. We were friends, but you know, not buds. Probably partied some. I ran into him once in Charlotte while I was in school. How odd was that. After that time he achieved some fame, so naturally I remember him. Well, tonight he walked up and said hey, introduced his kid, etc. Very nice. So here's the trick. As we were talking, he's putting my name/email in his PDA. And here's what he said; "Kermit, how do you spell your last name?" How simple is that! There's no way he'd have remembered it anyway.
Not sure why I'm fascinated by this, but I am. Such a simple thing, and it doesn't come off as fake. This is a talent I do not have. Like, at my wife's company Christmas party, she's talking to this guy who says "I bet Kermit doesn't remember me!". Crap, what do you do then? Fact was I did recognize him, but couldn't come up with his name. Guess it wouldn't have worked to ask him to spell it, huh.
Ride. Saturday. Be there or be.....busy doing something important.
My tattoosake, Einsturzende Neubauten is playing in the backgound and is calling me.
Busy Weekend
For my kid, anyway. I guess me as well.
Friday night my kid went to a sleepover. This was her first. She's had kids stay at our house, and most have gone ok, but she was scared to go somewhere else. Not sure what happened. And, they even had a dog! My kid is scared of dogs! When I asked where the dog slept, she said "anywhere. It was a nice dog". Ok then, where did my girl go?
We went out to dinner at our close by fave, Patina Grill. Turns out I went to highschool with the owner. Been going there for years and never realized it. Such a small town, the RVA. Anyway the food was great as always. I started with a standard martini, and I gotta say, it kind of hit me. I can usually drink quite a bit, I'm not small and my tolerance is usually good. I have to say I kind of felt it. I had a fantastic Salmon meal. My wife, as usual, wanted dessert. I can't have dessert, so I went for an after-dinner coffee drink. Plenty of booze. I had to ask the wife to drive home. I got home and went to bed...at about 8:00. Honestly this doesn't happen to me. I have no idea what was going on. So strange.
Saturday AM brought the bicycle ride with Diane and Richard. I bundled up and went forth amid great protest from my body. I use to ride in the woods in the winter, but somehow this is different. We couldn't decide how far to go, so we picked a point to make a decision and headed out.
The beginning of the ride was a little tough. I suck in the morning, but I've gotten use to it. Frankly the cold only makes it worse. Takes awhile to get warmed up and moving. The begining of the ride wasn't great, but wasn't bad either. The second half seemed a bit better. I haven't looked at the stats to see if we were moving any better on the return portion. The three of us seem to ride pretty equally. Everyone has off days and on days, but for the most part I don't think anyone really holds anyone else up. Of course I'll never forget Diane and her brother in law dropping me like there was no tomorrow on the metric we did, so...
The rest of Saturday was cleaning up and a few errands, which are tough this time of year. My kid was at several more functions on Saturday. Sunday AM brought me trying to get a gingerbread house completed prior to yet another even for my daughter. Then, while she was gone, we raked leaves...possibly my least favorite task in the world. Thankfully, we don't have a ton of leaves. We got finished and I headed out on the motorcycle for a quick ride. I actually rode our bike route as it entails some nice, low traffic roads. I feel pretty confident on the motorcycle, but fact is I'm really new to it. I'm still kind of uncomfortable on the highway. My bike is pretty light, and tooling along at 75 with no fairing or windshield just feels loosy goosy.
Then was time to get the Christmas tree. All our cats haven't been around one. The two kittens did their inspection and did some playing, but seem to get over it pretty quickly. Until you put water in the base and they want to drink that. We'll see. Probably leave up undecorated for a few days to be sure its safe.
Had to pick up for the maids today, and then order a few Christmas gifts. And now I'm here, blowing off a meeting.
W00t!
Friday night my kid went to a sleepover. This was her first. She's had kids stay at our house, and most have gone ok, but she was scared to go somewhere else. Not sure what happened. And, they even had a dog! My kid is scared of dogs! When I asked where the dog slept, she said "anywhere. It was a nice dog". Ok then, where did my girl go?
We went out to dinner at our close by fave, Patina Grill. Turns out I went to highschool with the owner. Been going there for years and never realized it. Such a small town, the RVA. Anyway the food was great as always. I started with a standard martini, and I gotta say, it kind of hit me. I can usually drink quite a bit, I'm not small and my tolerance is usually good. I have to say I kind of felt it. I had a fantastic Salmon meal. My wife, as usual, wanted dessert. I can't have dessert, so I went for an after-dinner coffee drink. Plenty of booze. I had to ask the wife to drive home. I got home and went to bed...at about 8:00. Honestly this doesn't happen to me. I have no idea what was going on. So strange.
Saturday AM brought the bicycle ride with Diane and Richard. I bundled up and went forth amid great protest from my body. I use to ride in the woods in the winter, but somehow this is different. We couldn't decide how far to go, so we picked a point to make a decision and headed out.
The beginning of the ride was a little tough. I suck in the morning, but I've gotten use to it. Frankly the cold only makes it worse. Takes awhile to get warmed up and moving. The begining of the ride wasn't great, but wasn't bad either. The second half seemed a bit better. I haven't looked at the stats to see if we were moving any better on the return portion. The three of us seem to ride pretty equally. Everyone has off days and on days, but for the most part I don't think anyone really holds anyone else up. Of course I'll never forget Diane and her brother in law dropping me like there was no tomorrow on the metric we did, so...
The rest of Saturday was cleaning up and a few errands, which are tough this time of year. My kid was at several more functions on Saturday. Sunday AM brought me trying to get a gingerbread house completed prior to yet another even for my daughter. Then, while she was gone, we raked leaves...possibly my least favorite task in the world. Thankfully, we don't have a ton of leaves. We got finished and I headed out on the motorcycle for a quick ride. I actually rode our bike route as it entails some nice, low traffic roads. I feel pretty confident on the motorcycle, but fact is I'm really new to it. I'm still kind of uncomfortable on the highway. My bike is pretty light, and tooling along at 75 with no fairing or windshield just feels loosy goosy.
Then was time to get the Christmas tree. All our cats haven't been around one. The two kittens did their inspection and did some playing, but seem to get over it pretty quickly. Until you put water in the base and they want to drink that. We'll see. Probably leave up undecorated for a few days to be sure its safe.
Had to pick up for the maids today, and then order a few Christmas gifts. And now I'm here, blowing off a meeting.
W00t!
Friday, December 7, 2007
Please Explain
Really, I'm totally for being healthy. Really. I do my best. What I don't understand is why a good dose of gental fiber makes a woman so happy. Everytime I see a commercial for fiber, by the end of the 30 seconds, the woman seems soooo happy. Is fiber better than chocolate? Wine?
Really, I'm all for a great poop, but ...
Really, I'm all for a great poop, but ...
Thursday, December 6, 2007
I Mean to, Honest!
I have been meaning to blog all week. I've also been meaning to exercise. I've been staying up every night futzing with the computer. That's the way it always is, isn't it? New toy demands attention.
I've been loading software and messing around. I've fixed a few issues, cleaned up some stuff, etc etc. Still got a ways to go. Of course, this is the fun part. Only a handful more apps to load, place is mostly cleaned up.
Well, I am going out with Diane and Richard Saturday (and whom ever else shows up, I suppose). I'll also be at Performance after work looking for gloves that fit. Its supposed to warm up some, but I'm not sure I'm counting on that. With any luck I might get in a little time on the motorcycle Sunday in between all the plans and Christmas decorating.
Which reminds me, I need to do some clicking and shipping tonight or tomorrow. Am I the only one who ends up buying stuff for themselves while shopping? Maybe I should buy some carbon wheels while I'm at Performance?
So anyways, Cap to Cap it is. That will be a century for me next year. It'll take a bit of training. Last years metric had me pretty done. I'll have to make myself do some quality trainer time this winter and then figure out a schedule of increasing distance to make sure I can manage. I mean, I'm pretty sure I can do it, but it would nice to not be on the course when they sweep it. I suppose if I do some 40s, 60s, 80s etc, I should be able to hang with my biking buds. It would be great if I managed to drop some weight along the way. Less to tote up the hills.
I've been loading software and messing around. I've fixed a few issues, cleaned up some stuff, etc etc. Still got a ways to go. Of course, this is the fun part. Only a handful more apps to load, place is mostly cleaned up.
Well, I am going out with Diane and Richard Saturday (and whom ever else shows up, I suppose). I'll also be at Performance after work looking for gloves that fit. Its supposed to warm up some, but I'm not sure I'm counting on that. With any luck I might get in a little time on the motorcycle Sunday in between all the plans and Christmas decorating.
Which reminds me, I need to do some clicking and shipping tonight or tomorrow. Am I the only one who ends up buying stuff for themselves while shopping? Maybe I should buy some carbon wheels while I'm at Performance?
So anyways, Cap to Cap it is. That will be a century for me next year. It'll take a bit of training. Last years metric had me pretty done. I'll have to make myself do some quality trainer time this winter and then figure out a schedule of increasing distance to make sure I can manage. I mean, I'm pretty sure I can do it, but it would nice to not be on the course when they sweep it. I suppose if I do some 40s, 60s, 80s etc, I should be able to hang with my biking buds. It would be great if I managed to drop some weight along the way. Less to tote up the hills.
Monday, December 3, 2007
On being a Wuss
Went for a ride with Richard on Saturday. Honestly it was my first cold road ride. I use to mountain bike in the cold, but you just aren't moving so fast AND you're generating heat. Its a bit warmer. I even went mountian biking in the snow and ice. Ok, that was just plain dumb.
(Note to self - this Microsoft keyboard doesn't have good key click. Will it break in? Hard to type fast).
So, we hit the road. No idea what the temp was, high 40s maybe? Low 50s? All I know is it was pretty chilly. And, there was this head wind. So, that means the windchill was at least -60 for sure. I have warm socks and some toe covers, but my toes were still really cold. My gloves were too tight, so I need new ones. Rest of me wasn't too bad. Could probably use a little more warmth, but it was ok. A balaclava would have kept my neck a little warmer. I pulled for the begining of the ride. I think I was going a whopping 14 mph. ugh. Thighs hurt. Not sure why.
Richard took over around halfway or so and that was nice. Whew. Drafting FTW!! The ride back wasn't as bad, but weren't breaking any speed records. Still, it was nice to get out on the road again.
Oh, and I hate my pedals again.
I'm on the new 'puter now. Most things are working ok. I had been getting a couple of errors on boot, but that seems to have worked itself out. I'm pretty big on letting things fix themselves. I finally ran my monitor probe tonight and it looks soooooooooooo much better. I'll run through the calibration again, just to be sure, then move on to the printer. Maybe I'll finally be able to get prints that match what I see on the screen.
Otherwise, I'm still tackling the mess that surrounds me down here in the man room.
Got back to the gym tonight and insanity set in. Lets just crank the resistance up on the X trainer. Woo hoo. You know its too high when you simply can't push the pedals down without almost jumping. But I managed, if at a slower pace.
Did free weights instead of the machines. Tomorrow should be interesting. Someone was using my usual weight, so I figured I should move up anyway. Yeah.......
Seriously, I usually go for reps as I'm more concerned about the exercise than the strength, but I know I need more strength. I think this winter will be an exercise in going up in weight. Now, do keep in mind that I only have a little idea of what I'm doing and I only use dumbells (insert obligitory joke here). I don't know enough about what I'm doing with a bar and I work out alone, so it just seems better this way. We'll see. I really want to increase my leg strength so I can climb better on the bike.
And, in the spirit of goals, my little one this year is to do a century. And do it in a reasonable amount of time. Naturally I'm not sure what that amount of time is which gives me a great out. I just want to keep a good pace for it. Hopefully I can figure out what that should be in early spring.
And to answer the question, the tattoos are fine. They are still shiny, so its a bit tough to tell if they need touching up. Well, the Gabba Gabba Hey one doesn't, I'm sure. The EN man may. I've never closely looked at anyone elses tribal style tat, so I don't know how even any of them look. I think its too soon to tell. I can say that it flaked more than my others, but that makes sense. I've moved on to my 2nd container of Eucerin (1 per year, more or less). I'll keep it up until they aren't shiny and raised. Hope all the Tri-Girls tats are healing equally well.
Werd.
(Note to self - this Microsoft keyboard doesn't have good key click. Will it break in? Hard to type fast).
So, we hit the road. No idea what the temp was, high 40s maybe? Low 50s? All I know is it was pretty chilly. And, there was this head wind. So, that means the windchill was at least -60 for sure. I have warm socks and some toe covers, but my toes were still really cold. My gloves were too tight, so I need new ones. Rest of me wasn't too bad. Could probably use a little more warmth, but it was ok. A balaclava would have kept my neck a little warmer. I pulled for the begining of the ride. I think I was going a whopping 14 mph. ugh. Thighs hurt. Not sure why.
Richard took over around halfway or so and that was nice. Whew. Drafting FTW!! The ride back wasn't as bad, but weren't breaking any speed records. Still, it was nice to get out on the road again.
Oh, and I hate my pedals again.
I'm on the new 'puter now. Most things are working ok. I had been getting a couple of errors on boot, but that seems to have worked itself out. I'm pretty big on letting things fix themselves. I finally ran my monitor probe tonight and it looks soooooooooooo much better. I'll run through the calibration again, just to be sure, then move on to the printer. Maybe I'll finally be able to get prints that match what I see on the screen.
Otherwise, I'm still tackling the mess that surrounds me down here in the man room.
Got back to the gym tonight and insanity set in. Lets just crank the resistance up on the X trainer. Woo hoo. You know its too high when you simply can't push the pedals down without almost jumping. But I managed, if at a slower pace.
Did free weights instead of the machines. Tomorrow should be interesting. Someone was using my usual weight, so I figured I should move up anyway. Yeah.......
Seriously, I usually go for reps as I'm more concerned about the exercise than the strength, but I know I need more strength. I think this winter will be an exercise in going up in weight. Now, do keep in mind that I only have a little idea of what I'm doing and I only use dumbells (insert obligitory joke here). I don't know enough about what I'm doing with a bar and I work out alone, so it just seems better this way. We'll see. I really want to increase my leg strength so I can climb better on the bike.
And, in the spirit of goals, my little one this year is to do a century. And do it in a reasonable amount of time. Naturally I'm not sure what that amount of time is which gives me a great out. I just want to keep a good pace for it. Hopefully I can figure out what that should be in early spring.
And to answer the question, the tattoos are fine. They are still shiny, so its a bit tough to tell if they need touching up. Well, the Gabba Gabba Hey one doesn't, I'm sure. The EN man may. I've never closely looked at anyone elses tribal style tat, so I don't know how even any of them look. I think its too soon to tell. I can say that it flaked more than my others, but that makes sense. I've moved on to my 2nd container of Eucerin (1 per year, more or less). I'll keep it up until they aren't shiny and raised. Hope all the Tri-Girls tats are healing equally well.
Werd.
Friday, November 30, 2007
The King is Gone
But he won't be forgotten. I'm not speaking of Johnny Rotten.
I can't remember the first time, but it was probably the early 70s. Most likely after Caeser's. I think it was amazing to any kid, but I know it was for me. I watched everytime. Heck, I remember the emulation on a Big Wheel.
When I was in 3rd grade, I think, my grandfather convinced my Mom to let me have a mini-bike. Anyone my age will remember the pull start Briggs and Stratten motors on these little things. But I had a Honda. Couple of years Later I got a small dirt bike. This was his heyday. It was fun to watch ABCs Wide World of Sports and the long build ups. Then there were the prime time specials.
Today an unlikely hero died. Robert "Evel" Knievel died at 69. Clearly the man lived a full life. He broke most of the bones in his body. He was a thief. He sued Kanye West. He was the man. He was in real life what Steve McQueen was in the movies (but Steve was awesome in his own right).
He had been sick for almost ten years. Contracted hepatitis from one of the zillion pints of blood he got over his life.
Evel, rest in peace bud, you deserve it.
I can't remember the first time, but it was probably the early 70s. Most likely after Caeser's. I think it was amazing to any kid, but I know it was for me. I watched everytime. Heck, I remember the emulation on a Big Wheel.
When I was in 3rd grade, I think, my grandfather convinced my Mom to let me have a mini-bike. Anyone my age will remember the pull start Briggs and Stratten motors on these little things. But I had a Honda. Couple of years Later I got a small dirt bike. This was his heyday. It was fun to watch ABCs Wide World of Sports and the long build ups. Then there were the prime time specials.
Today an unlikely hero died. Robert "Evel" Knievel died at 69. Clearly the man lived a full life. He broke most of the bones in his body. He was a thief. He sued Kanye West. He was the man. He was in real life what Steve McQueen was in the movies (but Steve was awesome in his own right).
He had been sick for almost ten years. Contracted hepatitis from one of the zillion pints of blood he got over his life.
Evel, rest in peace bud, you deserve it.
Vista update
So far, so good. After my inital self-inflicted issues, it is going fine. All my printers and scanners and wireless, etc work fine.
Most of my time has been spent running cables and moving stuff around. I have several external hard drives and I have been trying to do some cable management. Haven't done so good with that.
So far I need - new backup software, my new audio card has no vista drivers so it sits unused, I'm not positive that my monitor set up tool is going to work, there are not yet any USB drivers for my diabetes meter, but I think that may be it.
Not bad. I haven't gotten around to playing with it much yet, so I really have no opinion. Vista does seem to have an aggressive indexing service, but no issue.
So, come on in! The water's fine!
Most of my time has been spent running cables and moving stuff around. I have several external hard drives and I have been trying to do some cable management. Haven't done so good with that.
So far I need - new backup software, my new audio card has no vista drivers so it sits unused, I'm not positive that my monitor set up tool is going to work, there are not yet any USB drivers for my diabetes meter, but I think that may be it.
Not bad. I haven't gotten around to playing with it much yet, so I really have no opinion. Vista does seem to have an aggressive indexing service, but no issue.
So, come on in! The water's fine!
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
The Vista Challenge
Everyone poo poos Vista. No one likes change. No one wanted to move from Windows 3.1 to Windows 95. Heck, what am I saying, no one want to leave DOS3.3 for Windows 3.0.
Sure there are some buggy OSs (ME anyone?) but actually they all work amazingly well. Look, if you want your 10 year old dot matrix printer to continue to work, you may need to run Windows 95, that's just the way it goes.
So I've shunned the world and am loading Vista on my new machine. Frankly I'd have liked to run the 64 bit version, but apparently drivers just aren't around for it. I looked up my hardware and it seems there are drivers for the majority of it. I think I'll be ok from that standpoint.
Lastnight I started the install. Went pretty well. I got all the hardware installed the day before, last night I just prettied up the cabling. I went into the BIOS and tweeked a couple of things, put in the Vista disk and...BSOD. Hmm. Well, I could have some bad hardware, its all an unknown at this point.
So I did what every good psuedo-PC person does...I turned the power switch to off. Then I turned it on.
Hmm. Same result.
This forced me to the mighty interweb to search for an answer. And I got a handful. This generic error could mean most anything, but something stuck out, so back in I went to change it.
Power on, BSOD. Hmm.
So, I'm thinking I should just go to bed, but....no. I can't. Must. Build. PC. Went back into the BIOS and reset it to failsafe (not exactly sure what that means, something akin to factory defaults) and booted again. Success! Woo Hoo! I get to the point where it wants me to tell it where to put the OS. I see an advanced option. Well, I'm nothing if not advanced, so I chose it figuring I could partition off some of my primary drive. So, I picked the primary partition, clicked format, clicked install. "No media sutible for install". What? Lets try that again (obviously if something doesn't work the first time, you try again). Same thing.
Hmm.
OK, so now what. Well, of course back to square one. Go into BIOS and tweek settings. Boot. BSOD. DAMMIT I did this before, didn't I? I was hoping to find something to do with SATA that needed to be set. No such luck and clearly Vista doesn't like what I'm changing.
Back to Failsafe settings. Boot good, get to install Vista. Pick "install" instead of "advanced options". Picks where I wanted it do be installed by itself (cleverly, I had plugged this hard drive into the number one slot), and away it went. Really didn't take terribly long. Nothing like I remember other installs. Of course my machine should be screaming.
Goes through all its reboots and what not, I create my account and there I am. Looking at the pretty screen. No idea where anything is. Its almost like when I went to 95. Sure is pretty tho.
So there you have it, the base OS is installed. The only real issue so far is the BIOS. But clearly it works. Since everything has to get patched, I'm not going to bother troubleshooting it until after everything has been updated.
And then there is that issue of the PC not ever turning off.....
Sure there are some buggy OSs (ME anyone?) but actually they all work amazingly well. Look, if you want your 10 year old dot matrix printer to continue to work, you may need to run Windows 95, that's just the way it goes.
So I've shunned the world and am loading Vista on my new machine. Frankly I'd have liked to run the 64 bit version, but apparently drivers just aren't around for it. I looked up my hardware and it seems there are drivers for the majority of it. I think I'll be ok from that standpoint.
Lastnight I started the install. Went pretty well. I got all the hardware installed the day before, last night I just prettied up the cabling. I went into the BIOS and tweeked a couple of things, put in the Vista disk and...BSOD. Hmm. Well, I could have some bad hardware, its all an unknown at this point.
So I did what every good psuedo-PC person does...I turned the power switch to off. Then I turned it on.
Hmm. Same result.
This forced me to the mighty interweb to search for an answer. And I got a handful. This generic error could mean most anything, but something stuck out, so back in I went to change it.
Power on, BSOD. Hmm.
So, I'm thinking I should just go to bed, but....no. I can't. Must. Build. PC. Went back into the BIOS and reset it to failsafe (not exactly sure what that means, something akin to factory defaults) and booted again. Success! Woo Hoo! I get to the point where it wants me to tell it where to put the OS. I see an advanced option. Well, I'm nothing if not advanced, so I chose it figuring I could partition off some of my primary drive. So, I picked the primary partition, clicked format, clicked install. "No media sutible for install". What? Lets try that again (obviously if something doesn't work the first time, you try again). Same thing.
Hmm.
OK, so now what. Well, of course back to square one. Go into BIOS and tweek settings. Boot. BSOD. DAMMIT I did this before, didn't I? I was hoping to find something to do with SATA that needed to be set. No such luck and clearly Vista doesn't like what I'm changing.
Back to Failsafe settings. Boot good, get to install Vista. Pick "install" instead of "advanced options". Picks where I wanted it do be installed by itself (cleverly, I had plugged this hard drive into the number one slot), and away it went. Really didn't take terribly long. Nothing like I remember other installs. Of course my machine should be screaming.
Goes through all its reboots and what not, I create my account and there I am. Looking at the pretty screen. No idea where anything is. Its almost like when I went to 95. Sure is pretty tho.
So there you have it, the base OS is installed. The only real issue so far is the BIOS. But clearly it works. Since everything has to get patched, I'm not going to bother troubleshooting it until after everything has been updated.
And then there is that issue of the PC not ever turning off.....
Monday, November 26, 2007
Guilt
All my blog buddies are back at it (well, Annnnnnnn doesn't stop), so I was feeling guilty. Thanksgiving is over and the rush to Christmas is on. I figure none of us will have a ton of time. Better get it out now!
So lets see...
Thanksgiving was good. I had a little break as the family went away while I worked. I took the time to do some cleaning up, put the motorcycle back together, and light the house. I'll never be on the tacky light tour, but I enjoy putting up lights.
I did the deed tonight. It was sad, but I did it. I took the lightweight tire off the back of the bicycle and put the cheap one on. I decided it was stupid to tear up a good tire on a trainer. Sure I'll be on the road some over the winter, but there will be more time on the trainer. Come spring, I'll slap the good tire back on. Also, I had lost the cadence sensor, so I got a new one and put it on. I also preview the new DVD I got. It is going to be TOUGH. Only thing I don't like about it is that they don't give you a target cadence, so its up to you to push hard. Its a muscle building video, which I need. I'm tired of all the girls dropping me. One last cheat, I ordered my 12/25 cassette. I'm figuring that will help when the 3 Bit....I mean Sisters are in my path. Watch out girls!
The PC is in, so you might see some trip photos one day. I took a break from assembly to come write.
And now in the spirit of joining in, (or tagging along, whatever), I was reading my Ironman friend TriGirl 40's blog about their post Ironman events. Seems they went in for some body alteration. Nice looking stuff they've got there. Well, I did the same thing last week, so......
There are more to come, but this will be it for awhile. I think this goes back to my midlife crisis. At my age, why just not do what I want? If people are going to judge me based on it, oh well. They'd have already done that with the earrings anyway. :-)
I tried to go to the gym today, but that was pointless. It was PACKED. Its never this packed. I left. All the cardio was full, and folks were signed up for the next slots. All the weight stuff was in use, and the free weight area was packed. I hope this was Thanksgiving guilt. I pay less at the Y and only have access to this small one. If they get this many folks to start coming, I'll have to find another place. They just don't have enough gear to support that many people. I need to be on the bike anyway, but I'm spending the money so I'd like to use it.
I suppose I should go do some other chores...like Christmas shop!
So lets see...
Thanksgiving was good. I had a little break as the family went away while I worked. I took the time to do some cleaning up, put the motorcycle back together, and light the house. I'll never be on the tacky light tour, but I enjoy putting up lights.
I did the deed tonight. It was sad, but I did it. I took the lightweight tire off the back of the bicycle and put the cheap one on. I decided it was stupid to tear up a good tire on a trainer. Sure I'll be on the road some over the winter, but there will be more time on the trainer. Come spring, I'll slap the good tire back on. Also, I had lost the cadence sensor, so I got a new one and put it on. I also preview the new DVD I got. It is going to be TOUGH. Only thing I don't like about it is that they don't give you a target cadence, so its up to you to push hard. Its a muscle building video, which I need. I'm tired of all the girls dropping me. One last cheat, I ordered my 12/25 cassette. I'm figuring that will help when the 3 Bit....I mean Sisters are in my path. Watch out girls!
The PC is in, so you might see some trip photos one day. I took a break from assembly to come write.
And now in the spirit of joining in, (or tagging along, whatever), I was reading my Ironman friend TriGirl 40's blog about their post Ironman events. Seems they went in for some body alteration. Nice looking stuff they've got there. Well, I did the same thing last week, so......
There are more to come, but this will be it for awhile. I think this goes back to my midlife crisis. At my age, why just not do what I want? If people are going to judge me based on it, oh well. They'd have already done that with the earrings anyway. :-)
I tried to go to the gym today, but that was pointless. It was PACKED. Its never this packed. I left. All the cardio was full, and folks were signed up for the next slots. All the weight stuff was in use, and the free weight area was packed. I hope this was Thanksgiving guilt. I pay less at the Y and only have access to this small one. If they get this many folks to start coming, I'll have to find another place. They just don't have enough gear to support that many people. I need to be on the bike anyway, but I'm spending the money so I'd like to use it.
I suppose I should go do some other chores...like Christmas shop!
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Revelations
I got the idea awhile back that I should try to do a 10k run. I kind of floated the idea. Everyone said I could for sure work up to it easily. I gotta say being around all the TriGirls made me think I should give it a shot. Swimming would kill me at this point, so a triathalon is out.
Today was a Turkey Trot at my kid's school. They had to do 2 loops that amounted to a mile. My kid is pretty slow, and it was pretty cold. We ran.....some. In that some I realized something. I.Can't.Run. Confirmation. There you have it. Man, it is just so awkward. My knees felt rough, my calves just pounded. Now, my stride was funny, but still. Nope. Not gonna.
Now, a little bragging. Sorry in advance. We're having a sleepover tonight. My kid is an only, so we try to do these things so she isn't stuck with just us. We've had several kids over over the years. Everytime I end up feeling the same. Everytime i end up realizing how great my kid is. Now, she can be ...motherly (bossy perhaps), but she is so well behaved. Other kids tend to annoy me because they act like kids. They really aren't doing anything wrong, none of the kids have ever been bad. She's just really good. I'm very lucky.
Getting a new PC. Lord knows I didn't need to spend the money, but my desktop has become processor bound. Its pretty old, like 4 years. I'm not sure exactly what has happened to it, but something. I've scanned it with several virus engines, spybot engines, tuning software, and nothing has come up. I loaded a piece of software the other night and it took 75% of the processor. Scottie called and said "she can't take anymore captain". I've never had this happen, usually I just upgrade for the heck of it. This time it looks like I finally maxed it out. Now the issue of finding something to do with it. Of course it'll be over a month before I'm off of it and feel like the new one is stable..
[/off geek]
Night
Today was a Turkey Trot at my kid's school. They had to do 2 loops that amounted to a mile. My kid is pretty slow, and it was pretty cold. We ran.....some. In that some I realized something. I.Can't.Run. Confirmation. There you have it. Man, it is just so awkward. My knees felt rough, my calves just pounded. Now, my stride was funny, but still. Nope. Not gonna.
Now, a little bragging. Sorry in advance. We're having a sleepover tonight. My kid is an only, so we try to do these things so she isn't stuck with just us. We've had several kids over over the years. Everytime I end up feeling the same. Everytime i end up realizing how great my kid is. Now, she can be ...motherly (bossy perhaps), but she is so well behaved. Other kids tend to annoy me because they act like kids. They really aren't doing anything wrong, none of the kids have ever been bad. She's just really good. I'm very lucky.
Getting a new PC. Lord knows I didn't need to spend the money, but my desktop has become processor bound. Its pretty old, like 4 years. I'm not sure exactly what has happened to it, but something. I've scanned it with several virus engines, spybot engines, tuning software, and nothing has come up. I loaded a piece of software the other night and it took 75% of the processor. Scottie called and said "she can't take anymore captain". I've never had this happen, usually I just upgrade for the heck of it. This time it looks like I finally maxed it out. Now the issue of finding something to do with it. Of course it'll be over a month before I'm off of it and feel like the new one is stable..
[/off geek]
Night
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Stuff, Random at its Best
I'm way overdue here. I had the best intentions of putting up more pictures, and I will, but I just haven't gotten around to converting them. They are all still sitting on the card...much like that Kodak commercial. My excuse of the day is that I bought a new harddrive for pictures. I bought new software because my old wouldn't deal with RAW files. I figured I might as well reorganize the mess in the process.
And there you have it.
Also, dealt with some odd stuff. Can't really write about it. Not bad, just....odd. No matter how old I get, I still seem to meet people I don't understand.
Last Saturday was my birthday. My kid always has "plans" about birthdays and such. They kind of drift with the prevailing winds so it can be a challenge to figure out what you're doing.
She decided I needed a boy date, so she had my wife call a work friend and see if he was available. I was supposed to go drink beer and do boy stuff. So we went to GForce Karts. We did 2 sessions. I came in second both times, but I really blew it the first time. Second time the track was more crowded, so I got held up some. I did beat my friend.
Afterwards we went over to Joe's Inn for a beer and a snack. Racing is tough you know! Must hydrate! (Thanks for that lesson, ANNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN).
So, I had been instructed to warn when I was coming home, so I did. Upon returning I walked to the door to be assaulted on either side by Silly String. Nice, they actually got me. We went inside for the gifts, which included what will be a torturous Spinervals DVD. I have one of the easier ones, Aero Base Builder. I used it last winter and it really helped me get use to spinning more. As much as I dread this Big Gear one, I need it.
Birthday dinner was at Ichiban. Kid knows I like sushi, so that was the choice. She enjoyed her chicken nuggets with chop sticks.
Great day.
Otherwise not a lot of excitement. The new Einsturzende Neubauten cd is great. I like most all of their work. The songs have more melody than they did 20 years ago. They are still a tough listen, but worth it if so inclined. Most people would be put off by the German lyrics. Last time I saw them in DC they stated they wouldn't be back due to the cost of travel. We'll see. And hope. I will be paying a personal tribute to EN next week.
And...that's it.
And there you have it.
Also, dealt with some odd stuff. Can't really write about it. Not bad, just....odd. No matter how old I get, I still seem to meet people I don't understand.
Last Saturday was my birthday. My kid always has "plans" about birthdays and such. They kind of drift with the prevailing winds so it can be a challenge to figure out what you're doing.
She decided I needed a boy date, so she had my wife call a work friend and see if he was available. I was supposed to go drink beer and do boy stuff. So we went to GForce Karts. We did 2 sessions. I came in second both times, but I really blew it the first time. Second time the track was more crowded, so I got held up some. I did beat my friend.
Afterwards we went over to Joe's Inn for a beer and a snack. Racing is tough you know! Must hydrate! (Thanks for that lesson, ANNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN).
So, I had been instructed to warn when I was coming home, so I did. Upon returning I walked to the door to be assaulted on either side by Silly String. Nice, they actually got me. We went inside for the gifts, which included what will be a torturous Spinervals DVD. I have one of the easier ones, Aero Base Builder. I used it last winter and it really helped me get use to spinning more. As much as I dread this Big Gear one, I need it.
Birthday dinner was at Ichiban. Kid knows I like sushi, so that was the choice. She enjoyed her chicken nuggets with chop sticks.
Great day.
Otherwise not a lot of excitement. The new Einsturzende Neubauten cd is great. I like most all of their work. The songs have more melody than they did 20 years ago. They are still a tough listen, but worth it if so inclined. Most people would be put off by the German lyrics. Last time I saw them in DC they stated they wouldn't be back due to the cost of travel. We'll see. And hope. I will be paying a personal tribute to EN next week.
And...that's it.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Bored
Worked a little late, went to a meeting tonight, didn't feel like dealing with photos. Instead, I took those quizes TriDi and REB60 have been.....so....
Addicted to Coffee - 71%
8th Grade Science - 69%
Internet Knowledge - 62%
Spelling - 73%
Geek - 36%
Blog Rating - PG-13 - Dangerous and Sex
At least my blog got a good score.
Addicted to Coffee - 71%
8th Grade Science - 69%
Internet Knowledge - 62%
Spelling - 73%
Geek - 36%
Blog Rating - PG-13 - Dangerous and Sex
At least my blog got a good score.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Day Oneish
So, here we go
Alright, so this isn't from the first day, whatever. A note, all photos I'm posting were shot in Nikon RAW (.NEF) and I used Irfanview to do a quick resize and format change. The web ain't art, and I'm sad to say my photos don't seem to be either. In fairness to myself, I tend to just whip it out, zoom and click with the digital. Obviously that's not possible with that camera up there.
I was in Sedona the first couple of days, where my folks had a place. We went to some park where I shot some photos. Only a short hike in. The photo sizes are odd as I can't seem to get larger ones to show right. I know it has to do with my page format. I'll change it one day.
That last one is the one I'm counting with the 4x5. It was by far the best shot. I shot all of it on color transparency and B&W. I'll have to get the color processed. I'll do the B&W, but it'll be awhile. I left all my stuff out in AZ with my folks, who'll drive it all back in a week or two.
When I was shooting, I had folks stop and stare, stop and ask questions, stop and copy my shot. They figure if I have all that crap out, it must be good! Seriously, I never know what to say, and I blow it everytime. I mean, perhaps since I've been around photography my whole life and have always known who Ansel Adams was, I knew what a big camera was. Apparently that isn't common, even in people older than I. The first couple asked what it was, and I said Zone VI. They said what? I said, oh, its a 4x5 view camera. Still the looks. The woman asked if I had to go to special school for it. I was stumped. I just said, well, its what that used in the 1800s, so it isn't that tough. Feeling like an ass, I quickly offered to let them look under the dark cloth. There is something quite special about that. They were amazed. I wonder if they noticed the image was upside down and backwards? I suppose not. Later we ran into them and the man said he knew I was a great photographer because he had been there all day and he took my shot and it was his best. Great.
Later a lady came up and asked what it was. I said a view camera. Her response was, I know, what kind. See? Can't win. She felt the need to list all the cameras she owned and how she was considering large format. I guess if I shoot more, I'll get use to it. The forums are filled with the same sort of stories.
Ok, that's it for tonight.
Alright, so this isn't from the first day, whatever. A note, all photos I'm posting were shot in Nikon RAW (.NEF) and I used Irfanview to do a quick resize and format change. The web ain't art, and I'm sad to say my photos don't seem to be either. In fairness to myself, I tend to just whip it out, zoom and click with the digital. Obviously that's not possible with that camera up there.
I was in Sedona the first couple of days, where my folks had a place. We went to some park where I shot some photos. Only a short hike in. The photo sizes are odd as I can't seem to get larger ones to show right. I know it has to do with my page format. I'll change it one day.
That last one is the one I'm counting with the 4x5. It was by far the best shot. I shot all of it on color transparency and B&W. I'll have to get the color processed. I'll do the B&W, but it'll be awhile. I left all my stuff out in AZ with my folks, who'll drive it all back in a week or two.
When I was shooting, I had folks stop and stare, stop and ask questions, stop and copy my shot. They figure if I have all that crap out, it must be good! Seriously, I never know what to say, and I blow it everytime. I mean, perhaps since I've been around photography my whole life and have always known who Ansel Adams was, I knew what a big camera was. Apparently that isn't common, even in people older than I. The first couple asked what it was, and I said Zone VI. They said what? I said, oh, its a 4x5 view camera. Still the looks. The woman asked if I had to go to special school for it. I was stumped. I just said, well, its what that used in the 1800s, so it isn't that tough. Feeling like an ass, I quickly offered to let them look under the dark cloth. There is something quite special about that. They were amazed. I wonder if they noticed the image was upside down and backwards? I suppose not. Later we ran into them and the man said he knew I was a great photographer because he had been there all day and he took my shot and it was his best. Great.
Later a lady came up and asked what it was. I said a view camera. Her response was, I know, what kind. See? Can't win. She felt the need to list all the cameras she owned and how she was considering large format. I guess if I shoot more, I'll get use to it. The forums are filled with the same sort of stories.
Ok, that's it for tonight.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
I'm Back
Not that that's all that exciting. I have lots I could write about. I have a gazillion photos, but I have to go through them, and frankly I'm tired. And, I came back with a cold.
But, really, there is only one thing I want to say. I want to congratulate trigirl40 and TriGirl DL and all the other Tri Girls I know on their weekend. I just can't imagine the last year of dedication and work these girls put into this event. Hell, I can't even imagine a Triathalon, much less an Iron Man!!
So, I'll catch up later. I need to go read some blogs.
Girls, you rock!
But, really, there is only one thing I want to say. I want to congratulate trigirl40 and TriGirl DL and all the other Tri Girls I know on their weekend. I just can't imagine the last year of dedication and work these girls put into this event. Hell, I can't even imagine a Triathalon, much less an Iron Man!!
So, I'll catch up later. I need to go read some blogs.
Girls, you rock!
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Leaving on a Jet Plane
Well - today is the day. I'm a little nervous...but I'm a bit of a nervous nelly anyway. Picking up the random stuff around the house. The flight to NJ will suck, and then I have to hang there for awhile before I go cross country. Got book, got iPod.
I'm taking a digital camera as well as the 4x5, so I should be able to post some pics.
So, goodbye, farewell, auf wiedersehen.
I'm taking a digital camera as well as the 4x5, so I should be able to post some pics.
So, goodbye, farewell, auf wiedersehen.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Closer Still
The virtual packing competition with Trigirl40 continues. I bought the last of my supplies tonight (socks and ls t-shirts) tonight. Washed the few clothes I need that weren't clean. I've had some stuff in the suitcase for a few days now....
Last night was the big show at school. Funny as usual. I don't think we had backing tracks when I was a kid. And yes, I have it all on video.
Got my pants in. I need to get my pic taken in full power ranger gear. I look pretty silly, but it is safer.Wife is threatening to take away credit card. Might be wise.
So really all I have left to do is pack and gather up the stuff around the house. Download playlist to ipod. Not bad. Packing is going to be a pain tho because of the variable weather. We'll be out early to get good light, so the temps will be cool, and then get warmer. This is all compounded by the fact that I have to helicopter into the canyon and can't take too much.
Here is a photo of the camera I use. Apologies to the dude I stole the photo from.
This is going to be quite an experience for me. Besides my folks, there is a photog that is acting as guide and is also shooting with the same camera. He's bringing along another friend. I've barely shot in years, and now I'm doing it with published landscape dudes. Well, hope I get something good.
Biking, motorcycling, and every other hobby I have is put on hold for a bit.
Last night was the big show at school. Funny as usual. I don't think we had backing tracks when I was a kid. And yes, I have it all on video.
Got my pants in. I need to get my pic taken in full power ranger gear. I look pretty silly, but it is safer.Wife is threatening to take away credit card. Might be wise.
So really all I have left to do is pack and gather up the stuff around the house. Download playlist to ipod. Not bad. Packing is going to be a pain tho because of the variable weather. We'll be out early to get good light, so the temps will be cool, and then get warmer. This is all compounded by the fact that I have to helicopter into the canyon and can't take too much.
Here is a photo of the camera I use. Apologies to the dude I stole the photo from.
This is going to be quite an experience for me. Besides my folks, there is a photog that is acting as guide and is also shooting with the same camera. He's bringing along another friend. I've barely shot in years, and now I'm doing it with published landscape dudes. Well, hope I get something good.
Biking, motorcycling, and every other hobby I have is put on hold for a bit.
Monday, October 22, 2007
And so it begins
For the most part, I'm one of those "the chase is better than the catch" guys. Whatever I do, I relish the prep. The getting ready, getting "the stuff", finally doing it. Then I'm done, time to move on. (Fortunatly, this doesn't apply to everything). I'm a list maker, a planer. Ok, lets face it, I'm anal.
So, tonight I pulled down the suitcase for my trip on Saturday.
Sure, I don't leave until Saturday, but I've got a lot of stuff to get together. Taking an extra suitcase for the couple of day excursion. Got the carry on pack, too. I've got a couple of coats for my parents sitting in a chair. There you go! I need someplace to put them! Might as well pack them. Need the suitcase for that, and I needed to go in the attic anyway to put away the camping gear.
See how easy that was?
I'm going to have to do a bit of laundry this week for the trip. I don't really know what to take with me. The weather is going to be up and down. Also, when we helicopter down into the canyon, most of my allowed weight will be in camera gear. Meh, who needs clothes on an Indian reservation? Maybe I need some of Annnnnnnnn's magic skin stuff to prevent chafing.
I'm thinking tomorrow will be a motorcycle day with my new robogloves. Pants on order.
So, tonight I pulled down the suitcase for my trip on Saturday.
Sure, I don't leave until Saturday, but I've got a lot of stuff to get together. Taking an extra suitcase for the couple of day excursion. Got the carry on pack, too. I've got a couple of coats for my parents sitting in a chair. There you go! I need someplace to put them! Might as well pack them. Need the suitcase for that, and I needed to go in the attic anyway to put away the camping gear.
See how easy that was?
I'm going to have to do a bit of laundry this week for the trip. I don't really know what to take with me. The weather is going to be up and down. Also, when we helicopter down into the canyon, most of my allowed weight will be in camera gear. Meh, who needs clothes on an Indian reservation? Maybe I need some of Annnnnnnnn's magic skin stuff to prevent chafing.
I'm thinking tomorrow will be a motorcycle day with my new robogloves. Pants on order.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
The time is neigh
First - Richard, no, you don't go very far when your motorcycle is on a work stand. It is similar to a trainer tho. It is indeed a device which allows you to torture yourself. In this case it makes it easier for me to work on the motorcycle.
Got some new blingy motorcycle gloves. Now I look even more like a Power Ranger! I should shoot a pic. Still need some pants tho.
Yeah, so Friday was a school event. You know, how is it I can overcome hating crowds when I'm being pushed around at a concert, but stick me in a crowded school and I'm about to crawl out of my skin! But I managed and its all good.
Saturday morning brought "the ride". Again I find myself gearing up at an hour I'd rather not be. Don't get me wrong, despite my bitching, I love it or I wouldn't be doing it.
And Saturday, I geared up for sure. I added clothes about 6 times. Shorts, knee warmers, long sleeve jersey, heavier socks, long finger gloves, undershirt and a coat. So, by the time we met up with Annn, I was warm. I ditched the coat at Annn's car, thanks! Honestly, the rest of the gear, I was fine. Richard says I'm old, he might be right.
So, as usual Diane takes off fast. That's hard for me to do, I usually have to warm up some. It was a great ride. Annnnn decided she was going to lead and she took off. We had quite a pace going. I think she was up front for most of the ride. At the very end I know she was behind me, but that didn't last long. All these kids can ride, it really is fun.
Saturday brought F1 qualifying, with Ferrari at the front, but things looking good for Hamilton to be the: 1st rookie to win the championship; 1st black to win the championship; and the youngest driver to win the championship. Sunday was the race. And what a race. Hamilton blew it, and then had some mechanical issues to help him move backward during the race. I say he blew it. This guy is 22. First year in F1. He is so phenominal that when he makes a true rookie mistake, everyone is floored.
I won't bore you, but it was a great race. Kimi Raikkonen came from a longshot third in points to win the season. He drives for Ferrari. It was great!
The rest of the weekend was spent with dull tasks like laundry and planning for my trip next weekend. More on that later.
Got some new blingy motorcycle gloves. Now I look even more like a Power Ranger! I should shoot a pic. Still need some pants tho.
Yeah, so Friday was a school event. You know, how is it I can overcome hating crowds when I'm being pushed around at a concert, but stick me in a crowded school and I'm about to crawl out of my skin! But I managed and its all good.
Saturday morning brought "the ride". Again I find myself gearing up at an hour I'd rather not be. Don't get me wrong, despite my bitching, I love it or I wouldn't be doing it.
And Saturday, I geared up for sure. I added clothes about 6 times. Shorts, knee warmers, long sleeve jersey, heavier socks, long finger gloves, undershirt and a coat. So, by the time we met up with Annn, I was warm. I ditched the coat at Annn's car, thanks! Honestly, the rest of the gear, I was fine. Richard says I'm old, he might be right.
So, as usual Diane takes off fast. That's hard for me to do, I usually have to warm up some. It was a great ride. Annnnn decided she was going to lead and she took off. We had quite a pace going. I think she was up front for most of the ride. At the very end I know she was behind me, but that didn't last long. All these kids can ride, it really is fun.
Saturday brought F1 qualifying, with Ferrari at the front, but things looking good for Hamilton to be the: 1st rookie to win the championship; 1st black to win the championship; and the youngest driver to win the championship. Sunday was the race. And what a race. Hamilton blew it, and then had some mechanical issues to help him move backward during the race. I say he blew it. This guy is 22. First year in F1. He is so phenominal that when he makes a true rookie mistake, everyone is floored.
I won't bore you, but it was a great race. Kimi Raikkonen came from a longshot third in points to win the season. He drives for Ferrari. It was great!
The rest of the weekend was spent with dull tasks like laundry and planning for my trip next weekend. More on that later.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Uneventful
Slow week, nice I suppose. Still trying to catch up on the stuff I didn't get done over the weekend. Excitement has amounted to getting the new dishwasher installed and getting the kitty fixed.
Well, that last one might not have been so good for kitty.
Old photo
How can you resist that?
No photos of the dishwasher, sorry.
Got to the gym the other day. Didn't push it, but felt ok. May go tomorrow. Gotta be ready for Diane and Richard. Hard to get back in the swing of things. Like Richard, I need to get the trainer back out.
Had a revelation this week. I'll start by saying its good I didn't get a motorcycle until I was older. I rode to work on Tuesday. One truism of riding is that you are invisible to cars. Another is, you are ageless. You are cool. You are (insert your fave classic cool guy here) Steve McQueen.
So I'm cruising down the road avoiding traffic. I pass (what I hope is)a High School busstop where a young lady has stepped out of the crowd trying to thumb a ride with me. I just waved and smiled in my helmet, behind my sunglasses, all of which hide my age. Girls do love what they perceive to be dangerous boys, don't they. If I had any confidence when I was young, this could have gotten me into a lot of trouble.
As it turns out, I had no confidence, no motorcycle and no money when I was young. Perhaps I still had a slightly dangerous look, but that's as far as it went. I don't think many Moms liked me, which worked in my favor.
Anyway, since I have nothing fantastic to say, I'll close with a photo of the sex machine. Don't hit me on your way to work tomorrow, riders are people, too!
Well, that last one might not have been so good for kitty.
Old photo
How can you resist that?
No photos of the dishwasher, sorry.
Got to the gym the other day. Didn't push it, but felt ok. May go tomorrow. Gotta be ready for Diane and Richard. Hard to get back in the swing of things. Like Richard, I need to get the trainer back out.
Had a revelation this week. I'll start by saying its good I didn't get a motorcycle until I was older. I rode to work on Tuesday. One truism of riding is that you are invisible to cars. Another is, you are ageless. You are cool. You are (insert your fave classic cool guy here) Steve McQueen.
So I'm cruising down the road avoiding traffic. I pass (what I hope is)a High School busstop where a young lady has stepped out of the crowd trying to thumb a ride with me. I just waved and smiled in my helmet, behind my sunglasses, all of which hide my age. Girls do love what they perceive to be dangerous boys, don't they. If I had any confidence when I was young, this could have gotten me into a lot of trouble.
As it turns out, I had no confidence, no motorcycle and no money when I was young. Perhaps I still had a slightly dangerous look, but that's as far as it went. I don't think many Moms liked me, which worked in my favor.
Anyway, since I have nothing fantastic to say, I'll close with a photo of the sex machine. Don't hit me on your way to work tomorrow, riders are people, too!
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Whew!
Mom is home. It has been quite hectic.
We had an outage at work on Friday. We weren't fully recovered until late Saturday. So, Friday night was spent shopping, packing, phone calling, driving to the airport phone calling, emailing and finally sort of sleeping.
Saturday brought good weather and taking off for camping. We were in cabins, so there was no tent to set up. Just all the cooking stuff. After a brief lunch we went for games. We didn't do so well. There were only 4 of us, so we had to do everything 4 times because of the tribe with 16 kids. So, that mean we had to carry the kids a bunch. I think the dads were as worn out as the kids.
Afterwards one of the worst things that could have happened, happened. Mom brought her a little coin from her trip. One of those angels in your pocket things. She lost it in the field during the games. Her eyes were all red and I could just see me having to pack up and go home. A bunch of people helped us look, but no luck. I told her that I just didn't think we were going to find it. I was working on a story about the luck whoever found it would have, but, then she found it. I was so relieved.
The night was the usual grilling and the secret ceremony. I'm afraid I can't share what goes on there. :-)
Back to a roaring campfire. Kids in bed around 10. Dads in bed around 11. We're the wuss tribe. One of the dads did bring a little something for me to slip into my coke. Whew. It was good. Sleep was ok. Temp was awesome, but my bunk was less than comfortable.
The morning brought me making eggs which go over well. Eggs, bacon, milk, juice, doughnuts, some sausage left over from dinner, hot chocolate, and coffee, glorious coffee.
Came home, started clean up, went for some new cds, and that's about it. Oh, and dropping the camera gear off. Wow, I have no idea how I'm going to carry it. Guess I'll manage.
Now back to real life. Gotta get the lawnmower tomorrow. Need some sleep. Need to purge all the bad food I've eaten out of my system. Need to exercise.
Tired.
We had an outage at work on Friday. We weren't fully recovered until late Saturday. So, Friday night was spent shopping, packing, phone calling, driving to the airport phone calling, emailing and finally sort of sleeping.
Saturday brought good weather and taking off for camping. We were in cabins, so there was no tent to set up. Just all the cooking stuff. After a brief lunch we went for games. We didn't do so well. There were only 4 of us, so we had to do everything 4 times because of the tribe with 16 kids. So, that mean we had to carry the kids a bunch. I think the dads were as worn out as the kids.
Afterwards one of the worst things that could have happened, happened. Mom brought her a little coin from her trip. One of those angels in your pocket things. She lost it in the field during the games. Her eyes were all red and I could just see me having to pack up and go home. A bunch of people helped us look, but no luck. I told her that I just didn't think we were going to find it. I was working on a story about the luck whoever found it would have, but, then she found it. I was so relieved.
The night was the usual grilling and the secret ceremony. I'm afraid I can't share what goes on there. :-)
Back to a roaring campfire. Kids in bed around 10. Dads in bed around 11. We're the wuss tribe. One of the dads did bring a little something for me to slip into my coke. Whew. It was good. Sleep was ok. Temp was awesome, but my bunk was less than comfortable.
The morning brought me making eggs which go over well. Eggs, bacon, milk, juice, doughnuts, some sausage left over from dinner, hot chocolate, and coffee, glorious coffee.
Came home, started clean up, went for some new cds, and that's about it. Oh, and dropping the camera gear off. Wow, I have no idea how I'm going to carry it. Guess I'll manage.
Now back to real life. Gotta get the lawnmower tomorrow. Need some sleep. Need to purge all the bad food I've eaten out of my system. Need to exercise.
Tired.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Almost!
Mom comes home tomorrow night! Woo hoo! It hasn't been as bad as it could have been. We've had a lot to do. Last night Red Robin with some friends. Bed time was fine until 11 or so. Then stomach hurt. Sent her back. Around midnight, again. I told her she could stay in bed with me.
This morning she said her stomach still hurt some. So, trying to be a good parent I let her have about a quarter of a little metamucil cracker. Cleared things up. :-) I do think that was a little bit of the issue.
Tonight we were sad after mom called. No idea what sets it off. Then, I made the mistake of talking about summer camp. Bad call. I was just talking about how fun it could be to be away from parents. Oh well. I recovered. You know, I really don't want her to grow up, but I would like her to be a little less tied to us.
About have everything together for camping this weekend. Hopefully that will go ok. Only fear is that Mom comes home late tomorrow night and we're leaving Saturday morning. The camping itself is fine, but there won't have been any Mommy time. Guess we'll see.
And, now I have to get all my camera gear cleaned up for my trip. My folks are taking the gear out on Monday in their car. I'll get out there in 2 weeks. Should be interesting to say the least.
So much to do....
This morning she said her stomach still hurt some. So, trying to be a good parent I let her have about a quarter of a little metamucil cracker. Cleared things up. :-) I do think that was a little bit of the issue.
Tonight we were sad after mom called. No idea what sets it off. Then, I made the mistake of talking about summer camp. Bad call. I was just talking about how fun it could be to be away from parents. Oh well. I recovered. You know, I really don't want her to grow up, but I would like her to be a little less tied to us.
About have everything together for camping this weekend. Hopefully that will go ok. Only fear is that Mom comes home late tomorrow night and we're leaving Saturday morning. The camping itself is fine, but there won't have been any Mommy time. Guess we'll see.
And, now I have to get all my camera gear cleaned up for my trip. My folks are taking the gear out on Monday in their car. I'll get out there in 2 weeks. Should be interesting to say the least.
So much to do....
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
10.07.05
You may want to come back later, this could be long.
I never know where to start. I mean, was it in college the first time I heard Motorhead? Maybe it was highschool. I bagged groceries and one of the VCU students said "hey, have you heard the Ramones?". The day at the skatepark over on southside when I first heard Van Halen doing "You Really Got Me"? Kiss' "Rock and Roll All Night"? The Sweet "Little Willy"?
See? Where do I start. One day I want to write a book, but who the hell would want to read a book about my life with music. It would be long, that's for sure.
So back to now. Today I got a DVD in the mail. It was taped at the 9:30 club two years ago. It was the last night of Bob Mould's "Body of Song" tour. I was there.
I'd seen Bob a fair amount. I regret that I never saw him in Husker Du or Sugar. Places, responsibilities. They get in the way. This night was different. This was the first time he played Sugar and Husker Du material with a full band. He's done them solo, acoustic and electric, but he would never play them with a touring band. It promised to be a special night.
I was not disappointed.
You could feel it in the air, everyone was excited. It was a great crowd. There were fans from every stage of his career. You could tell the ones who really only knew the new stuff. It didn't matter though. It was phenomenal. There really aren't words. Its that feeling that washes over you. Your spine tingles. You just can't stop moving. I heard Chartered Trips live.
I felt it all again tonight.
I'm not a big DVD guy, I only get a few things. This one was a must have, I just didn't expect it to be so great. At some point I'll end up looking at still frames to see if I see myself, but not soon. Its way too much fun to just watch. The mix is just awesome. The video is great, especially considering the circumstances. Looked like almost all of the cameras were handheld. The edit was great. Nice variety of shots, cameras worked great in the light.
I'm going to hold back the urge to try and put into words what music means to me. It would just take too long and wouldn't make much sense. Its easier to take it on a band by band basis. Lets just say that its the one time I'm free.
You'll read everywhere how influential Bob's work has been over the years. I can understand it. From Metal Circus to Body of Song, his work has been outstanding. He's able to communicate emotion like few other. Of course it just so happens that his noisy presentation trips the right triggers in my brain.
Whatever it is that floats your boat, I hope that you're able to feel like this.
Thanks, Bob. I'm looking forward to the new album and live performances in the new year.
You are the rock.
I never know where to start. I mean, was it in college the first time I heard Motorhead? Maybe it was highschool. I bagged groceries and one of the VCU students said "hey, have you heard the Ramones?". The day at the skatepark over on southside when I first heard Van Halen doing "You Really Got Me"? Kiss' "Rock and Roll All Night"? The Sweet "Little Willy"?
See? Where do I start. One day I want to write a book, but who the hell would want to read a book about my life with music. It would be long, that's for sure.
So back to now. Today I got a DVD in the mail. It was taped at the 9:30 club two years ago. It was the last night of Bob Mould's "Body of Song" tour. I was there.
I'd seen Bob a fair amount. I regret that I never saw him in Husker Du or Sugar. Places, responsibilities. They get in the way. This night was different. This was the first time he played Sugar and Husker Du material with a full band. He's done them solo, acoustic and electric, but he would never play them with a touring band. It promised to be a special night.
I was not disappointed.
You could feel it in the air, everyone was excited. It was a great crowd. There were fans from every stage of his career. You could tell the ones who really only knew the new stuff. It didn't matter though. It was phenomenal. There really aren't words. Its that feeling that washes over you. Your spine tingles. You just can't stop moving. I heard Chartered Trips live.
I felt it all again tonight.
I'm not a big DVD guy, I only get a few things. This one was a must have, I just didn't expect it to be so great. At some point I'll end up looking at still frames to see if I see myself, but not soon. Its way too much fun to just watch. The mix is just awesome. The video is great, especially considering the circumstances. Looked like almost all of the cameras were handheld. The edit was great. Nice variety of shots, cameras worked great in the light.
I'm going to hold back the urge to try and put into words what music means to me. It would just take too long and wouldn't make much sense. Its easier to take it on a band by band basis. Lets just say that its the one time I'm free.
You'll read everywhere how influential Bob's work has been over the years. I can understand it. From Metal Circus to Body of Song, his work has been outstanding. He's able to communicate emotion like few other. Of course it just so happens that his noisy presentation trips the right triggers in my brain.
Whatever it is that floats your boat, I hope that you're able to feel like this.
Thanks, Bob. I'm looking forward to the new album and live performances in the new year.
You are the rock.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Relief
As a brief follow up, tonight was fine. She settled down. She had a full day, talked to mom and went to bed fine. Thank god. Now, if I can keep from waking up in the middle of the night feeling ill, it'll be a really good night.
I think it helped that I kept telling her how busy we'd be and I told her doing what. I'm just pleased.
Now, if only I can get my PC downstairs working right, it'll be even better.
I think it helped that I kept telling her how busy we'd be and I told her doing what. I'm just pleased.
Now, if only I can get my PC downstairs working right, it'll be even better.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Hell is for Daddys
Well, it started off ok anyway. Saturday ride with Richard. Its never as fast as it seems like it should be. I think its because of our cool down the last couple of miles really offsets our good pace. Its that math thing I'm not so good at. The other plus was my pedals. Seems maybe I just had my cleats placed wrong. We lucked out and didn't have to unclip the whole ride, but I played in the parking lot and it seems fine. Of course now I'll mess with them some more and totally screw it up. I also went to the Kool Stop salmon brake pads. Again, didn't really stop that much so I can't really say. I just feel like my brakes aren't as solid as they could be. Everyone uses these pads. We'll see. They're cheaper than new calipers.
After that there was some shopping, the dropoff for HSM on Ice (does it ever end?) and way more shopping for needed home implements. The evening brought Mom packing for a trip...and my daughter deciding she couldn't sleep. Hmmm. So, as usual I slept in her room. Today was dropping off Mom at the airport at 0 dark 30.
The event wasn't too bad. We walk back to the car and buckle in. Very little sound from the back seat. Soon, some sniffling. Then a full on cry. I'm driving, not much I can do. This lasts for the 30 minute drive. We got home and went for a nap. She hadn't slept a lot, nor had I, so the nap was good. Mom called and we were happy/sad. Afterwards, off to lunch we go.
At the usual venue, everyone asks where is Mom.....red eyes and tears ensue. Doesn't last long. We come home and its play time. The entire afternoon spent playing with friends. I manage to clean out a car and get some stuff out of the attic. I cook dinner and we watch some Hannah Montana to relax. Mom calls for goodnight. It goes.....ok.
Shortly thereafter I announce shower/bed time. The crying starts. I got her in the shower and it was ok. Until bed. I think she was there 3.2 minutes. Crying comes downstairs. I send her upstairs. Here is where I start feeling like a crappy dad. My daughter is pretty tied to her mom. This needs to not be.
As you would expect, things just go downhill. She wants to call mom. Everything hurts. Shes sick. Its too hard to sleep. I just keep sending her back up. I just feel like if we call, it'll only make things worse, so I hold my ground.
I finally give in a little and lay down with her. She's so tense and there really isn't much I can do about it. I know she's overtired at this point, which only makes things worse. So, after I laid down with her, she fell asleep in about 10 minutes. Poor thing. I sure hope the entire week isn't like this or I'm going to end up turning to booze. Oh wait......
After that there was some shopping, the dropoff for HSM on Ice (does it ever end?) and way more shopping for needed home implements. The evening brought Mom packing for a trip...and my daughter deciding she couldn't sleep. Hmmm. So, as usual I slept in her room. Today was dropping off Mom at the airport at 0 dark 30.
The event wasn't too bad. We walk back to the car and buckle in. Very little sound from the back seat. Soon, some sniffling. Then a full on cry. I'm driving, not much I can do. This lasts for the 30 minute drive. We got home and went for a nap. She hadn't slept a lot, nor had I, so the nap was good. Mom called and we were happy/sad. Afterwards, off to lunch we go.
At the usual venue, everyone asks where is Mom.....red eyes and tears ensue. Doesn't last long. We come home and its play time. The entire afternoon spent playing with friends. I manage to clean out a car and get some stuff out of the attic. I cook dinner and we watch some Hannah Montana to relax. Mom calls for goodnight. It goes.....ok.
Shortly thereafter I announce shower/bed time. The crying starts. I got her in the shower and it was ok. Until bed. I think she was there 3.2 minutes. Crying comes downstairs. I send her upstairs. Here is where I start feeling like a crappy dad. My daughter is pretty tied to her mom. This needs to not be.
As you would expect, things just go downhill. She wants to call mom. Everything hurts. Shes sick. Its too hard to sleep. I just keep sending her back up. I just feel like if we call, it'll only make things worse, so I hold my ground.
I finally give in a little and lay down with her. She's so tense and there really isn't much I can do about it. I know she's overtired at this point, which only makes things worse. So, after I laid down with her, she fell asleep in about 10 minutes. Poor thing. I sure hope the entire week isn't like this or I'm going to end up turning to booze. Oh wait......
Friday, October 5, 2007
She's Back
I retrieved my newest wheeled implement last night, a 2000 Suzuki SV650. I got it in the Spring and went through the MSF beginner class to get my license. This is my first street bike.
I rode dirtbikes forever as a kid. Never had one with a ton of power, just beat it around on trails. I loved it. I always wanted a street bike, but it was never really a good time. I'm really a car guy, so I always opted for a car as a toy.
Fast forward to a couple of years ago and the gentle onset of the midlife crisis. Last year I got a tattoo. I am planning some more as I loved the experience. Won't be going overboard but, I will do it again. Then, the end of last year I decided to get my motorcycle license. I signed up for class and came home and announced my decision.
The plan was to borrow my friends bike and ride around, see how I like it. Well, anyone that knows me well will understand that that lasted all of 2 days. I decided the bike I wanted (a friend has one) and I went off to Craigslist. Seems that anything older than about 3 days on Craigslist is probably gone. No one cleans up. In the end I really only found one. Of course I bought it. And, naturally I paid too much.
About a grand later I got it home. I rode and I loved it. Even though I have to watch out for traffic, it is like I remember it. You feel free. You fly. I can just go and go. While illegal, the advent of the iPOD allows me to jam while I'm riding. The only downside is that riding fast comes easy, and riding faster while listening to Slipknot is even easier.
Its hard to find time to ride, but I do it when I can. My bike was in the shop for about the last month. I've had a terrible time with screws and rear tires. So, I had bought a new one and took it to be mounted. They told me it needed a chain, so I forked out the cash for that. Well, seems there was a run on SV chains at the chain store and it was hard to find one. So, I brought it back home last night and took it to work today. Soooo much fun riding.
When I ride I feel.....cool. Everyone looks at you. I guess I like the attention.
Tomorrow a ride. And since all the Tri-girls are tri-ing, I get to ride at 8:15!
Thanks Richard!
I rode dirtbikes forever as a kid. Never had one with a ton of power, just beat it around on trails. I loved it. I always wanted a street bike, but it was never really a good time. I'm really a car guy, so I always opted for a car as a toy.
Fast forward to a couple of years ago and the gentle onset of the midlife crisis. Last year I got a tattoo. I am planning some more as I loved the experience. Won't be going overboard but, I will do it again. Then, the end of last year I decided to get my motorcycle license. I signed up for class and came home and announced my decision.
The plan was to borrow my friends bike and ride around, see how I like it. Well, anyone that knows me well will understand that that lasted all of 2 days. I decided the bike I wanted (a friend has one) and I went off to Craigslist. Seems that anything older than about 3 days on Craigslist is probably gone. No one cleans up. In the end I really only found one. Of course I bought it. And, naturally I paid too much.
About a grand later I got it home. I rode and I loved it. Even though I have to watch out for traffic, it is like I remember it. You feel free. You fly. I can just go and go. While illegal, the advent of the iPOD allows me to jam while I'm riding. The only downside is that riding fast comes easy, and riding faster while listening to Slipknot is even easier.
Its hard to find time to ride, but I do it when I can. My bike was in the shop for about the last month. I've had a terrible time with screws and rear tires. So, I had bought a new one and took it to be mounted. They told me it needed a chain, so I forked out the cash for that. Well, seems there was a run on SV chains at the chain store and it was hard to find one. So, I brought it back home last night and took it to work today. Soooo much fun riding.
When I ride I feel.....cool. Everyone looks at you. I guess I like the attention.
Tomorrow a ride. And since all the Tri-girls are tri-ing, I get to ride at 8:15!
Thanks Richard!
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Legs
Wow, apparently my squats did a little more hurt than I thought. Thighs still sore. No gym today. Trying to do a little test marketing so we were delivering fliers. Naturally upon getting home we discovered we messed up the phone number. Oh well, it was only 50 fliers. Just trying to get a feel. Maybe they'll email.
Good news today, my motorcycle is ready. Thing has been in the shop waiting for a chain for weeks. Yesterday I found some on line and was planning to call the shop today to tell them I'd supply the part...but its done. Missed most of September. Well, upside is that it has been hot so maybe cool, not cold, weather will linger.
Back to bicycle land, I've been considering some new pedals. Originally I had some Look knock offs. I never liked them much, but used them for a few years. Finally the cleats fell apart so I went to Times. I LOVE my Time ATACS on my Mtn bike. Best pedals ever. I've ended a ride with sticks stuck in the pedals and was still able to clip in and out fine. So, I bought Time RXS's. I've never been able to get these to work well either. In reading reviews I've seen many others that have trouble cliping in. I also read of lots of them breaking, but that hasn't happened to me. I have to STAND on the pedal to get it locked. I always figured its the location of the cleat on my shoe, but I just haven't had luck. I'm considering Speedplays now.
Got a trip coming up in a few weeks, so my anal tendencies have me prepping now. There is just never enough time, so I start early. So much to do, so little time.
Good news today, my motorcycle is ready. Thing has been in the shop waiting for a chain for weeks. Yesterday I found some on line and was planning to call the shop today to tell them I'd supply the part...but its done. Missed most of September. Well, upside is that it has been hot so maybe cool, not cold, weather will linger.
Back to bicycle land, I've been considering some new pedals. Originally I had some Look knock offs. I never liked them much, but used them for a few years. Finally the cleats fell apart so I went to Times. I LOVE my Time ATACS on my Mtn bike. Best pedals ever. I've ended a ride with sticks stuck in the pedals and was still able to clip in and out fine. So, I bought Time RXS's. I've never been able to get these to work well either. In reading reviews I've seen many others that have trouble cliping in. I also read of lots of them breaking, but that hasn't happened to me. I have to STAND on the pedal to get it locked. I always figured its the location of the cleat on my shoe, but I just haven't had luck. I'm considering Speedplays now.
Got a trip coming up in a few weeks, so my anal tendencies have me prepping now. There is just never enough time, so I start early. So much to do, so little time.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Concert Review
Last week was probably the end of my show going for the year. Unless Bob does a show, I don't see much else coming this fall. Its been a good year for me tho.
Lamb of God twice, Hatebreed, Dropkick Murphys, the mighty SLAYER (where I drove to DC and back with a 102 degree fever), and last week Turbonegro. I feel like I'm missing something.
Anyways, Turbonegro. The first band sounded like Soundgarden. They were ok I guess, but not my thing. The second band I endured. I kind of feel like I might like them, but, they just didn't do it for me. TN was, however, all that they could be.
If you Wiki them, here are are their listed influences: Black Flag, Aerosmith,[1] Venom, Radio Birdman, Motörhead, The Germs[2], Circle Jerks, Ramones, Alice Cooper, Negazione and The Stooges . Of these, I've never heard of Negazione, but the rest are among my favorites. They claim their style is Death Punk, but I can't say I really get that.
Essentially what you have are some mid-30s Norwegian's that look to be a cross between Kiss and the New York Dolls. And oh yeah, they'll kick your ass live. Since the crowd was kind of light, I made the potentially life altering decision to stay at the stage. These guys have a great visual element so I wanted to see it.
NWS!!!!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEJGk8qfAgI
While I didn't get that show, I got some great rock and roll. I also got bumps and bruises. Elbowed and kicked. I fell down and someone had to lift me up. Being alone freed me to sing with the crowd that was mostly 20 years younger. I was soaked in sweat (mine and others). These guys can play and they can for sure work a crowd. Seriously, only in rock and roll can an overweight dude, wearing some Clockwork Orange'sque makeup, showing more buttcrack than a plumber, get chicks. Why is it girls think muscians are hot anyway?
So it was well worth the long drive and lack of sleep.
Tomorrow, back to the gym?
Lamb of God twice, Hatebreed, Dropkick Murphys, the mighty SLAYER (where I drove to DC and back with a 102 degree fever), and last week Turbonegro. I feel like I'm missing something.
Anyways, Turbonegro. The first band sounded like Soundgarden. They were ok I guess, but not my thing. The second band I endured. I kind of feel like I might like them, but, they just didn't do it for me. TN was, however, all that they could be.
If you Wiki them, here are are their listed influences: Black Flag, Aerosmith,[1] Venom, Radio Birdman, Motörhead, The Germs[2], Circle Jerks, Ramones, Alice Cooper, Negazione and The Stooges . Of these, I've never heard of Negazione, but the rest are among my favorites. They claim their style is Death Punk, but I can't say I really get that.
Essentially what you have are some mid-30s Norwegian's that look to be a cross between Kiss and the New York Dolls. And oh yeah, they'll kick your ass live. Since the crowd was kind of light, I made the potentially life altering decision to stay at the stage. These guys have a great visual element so I wanted to see it.
NWS!!!!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEJGk8qfAgI
While I didn't get that show, I got some great rock and roll. I also got bumps and bruises. Elbowed and kicked. I fell down and someone had to lift me up. Being alone freed me to sing with the crowd that was mostly 20 years younger. I was soaked in sweat (mine and others). These guys can play and they can for sure work a crowd. Seriously, only in rock and roll can an overweight dude, wearing some Clockwork Orange'sque makeup, showing more buttcrack than a plumber, get chicks. Why is it girls think muscians are hot anyway?
So it was well worth the long drive and lack of sleep.
Tomorrow, back to the gym?
Fitness
So I ride my bike all summer (maybe not as much as I wished I had) and feel pretty good about it. While I'm able to keep up at the end of the summer, I don't feel as strong and am getting dropped a bit more. So, I head back to the gym for the first time in months.
Ugh. I guess not going to the gym is bad. Honestly biking is mostly about legs and lungs, but the piece I started to feel was missing was *core* muscles (I hate that term core. Why must we always invent new ways to refer to the same old thing?). Basically while my legs had ok power, and lungs were fine, I felt I was working harder keeping my body up.
Well, only two visits in and I can say I feel a bit tighter already. Had to drop back on weight, but I think this will work out for me.
Ugh. I guess not going to the gym is bad. Honestly biking is mostly about legs and lungs, but the piece I started to feel was missing was *core* muscles (I hate that term core. Why must we always invent new ways to refer to the same old thing?). Basically while my legs had ok power, and lungs were fine, I felt I was working harder keeping my body up.
Well, only two visits in and I can say I feel a bit tighter already. Had to drop back on weight, but I think this will work out for me.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Dots
How do you like the dots? This is so much easier on myspace. Oh well, off to go steal elements from others.
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