Bicycle FIXation

Complacent

2008-06-18T05:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a pretty average day for me, but I'm not going to complain one bit. I woke up early as my dad was leaving for work and he helped me jump my scooter. As I left the battery charging, I rode up to Kaldi's to have morning brew with my guys. It was really cute sitting with them because at the table next to us were 4 retired men laughing and talking about their lives. I can picture us in our retired years, riding our old crackity bikes to the coffee shop and laughing about all the silly things we did when we were younger.

I did a few things around the house once I came back home, then had an eye exam and ordered more contact lenses. I also snagged the Union Jack half helmet from the Vespa store. I can't wait to wear it today!! I then took a nap once I came home and really cannot remember the last time I've taken a nap before yesterday, how sad! I absolutely love afternoon naps. After my nap I drove into the hood for dinner with Truckey at La Tropicana (great suggestion girl) and enjoyed the short 2 hours we had together. This girl and I go back to our college years. I still remember the first class we had together, an 8:30am class, and she would always fall asleep. My friend and I looked forward to her sleeping episodes every class, it cracked us up. Now that I know her a little better, she is this incShredibly talented writer with a wide perspective on life. I am so glad I have her in my life, she always makes me feel so good about myself. She is the type of person who is so comfortable with herself, that you learn how to love yourself in return.

As we sat outside getting ready to wrap up dinner, a lady in a red Explorer was pulling out of her parallel parking spot (with my car in front of her) and backed into the shiny new Mini Cooper behind her. It pushed the cooper up into the air and as she slowly left Truck and I got her plate #. I ran inside and told the guy who owned the car; he said it just came from the shop today because he was recently rear-ended. As the police arrived a cop got out of the driver's seat and a cadet got out of the passenger seat. I felt a burst of excitement erupt and remembered that we get to do ride-a-longs while in Academy, SWEET!

After dinner with Truck, I jetted over to the Cowboy for a team meeting. Good times as usual...super secret team information though, sorry I can't share anymore...lol.

Batteries and ribs

2008-06-17T05:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my day off the bike and thankfully so. My body was so tired from finally resting after a year of constant go-go-go and a few periods of losing someone close to me. I started the morning out with coffee and biscotti at home while watching Italian music videos and the Tour de Suisse coverage. I then swung by the shop to pick up my belongings, all the while screaming at the guys that I was sick of their sh!% and was never coming back, that I couldn't take it anymore in the relationship. They got the joke and we all kind of laughed but also felt sad inside.

I then headed over to my see my amazing therapist. What a wonderful woman she is. I'm finally going to keep up with my appointments and not be stubborn anymore. I'm so DIY that I usually end up visiting her and getting caught up in my own grind that I forget I need her. Well, I'm finally in a place where I am ready to ask for help. Just to give you an idea of how much I love the ladies, even SHE was surprised that I am actually sticking to this 6 month hiatus. Whew.

I then dropped off my suits at the dry cleaners and started laundry. I'm afraid to see my dry cleaning bill, but also realizing that I have not dry cleaned them for over a year now and actually saved money by ironing them myself...lol. Once laundry was taken care of, I hopped on my Vespa and drov...wait a minute...I was out of gas...filled the tank at home...had a dead battery...plugged in the tender...battery is dead...so I drove to the new Vespa store in Kirkwood (nice, but really small) and found out I can jump start the bike with a car, among other things including the fact that they are selling an awesome Union Jack half helmet I have to buy today. I then walked to Crown Optical to buy more contact lenses and found out I need another eye appointment before I order more contacts. Bullocks, I freaking hate doing that but it must be done. It's kind of like starting a new relationship and getting tested for STDs so you and your partner know each other are clean...except my eyes don't sleep around...so why test them?

And then the evening came and went. I headed over to Geoff's for Kill Bill, Kill Bill 2, 8 hour smoked ribs and citrus vodka tonics. I love that guy and have officially unofficially called him my best friend in the past 3 conversations I have had about him. I just need to work on not leaving food and drink at his house when I leave. He has a week-old avocado of mine, bag of pine nuts, whole smoked chicken, and bottle of citrus vodka.

Picture of the day pays homage to Quentin:

On the last day and the day for fathers

2008-06-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

Listening to: Justin Nozuka

Yesterday was my last day at the bike shop. It was rather bittersweet in the fact that I felt so comfortable there, but also must move on to a new career that will send me on my way. What's great is that I will keep my shop friends, but also make many more new ones on the Police force. It's amazing to sit back and think of how many friends I have in my life and how wonderfully different they all are.

Father's Day was a blast. My brother came over to my dad's house and we grilled steak and bonded, you know, typical guy stuff;) Josh is as beautiful as ever and I'm glad he is still on the right track after derailing a few times. I convinced the guys to go to Ted Drewes, so we drove down to the hood and sulked in Mr. Drewe's famous desserts. After we were done eating, 3 men walked up to my dad and started talking to him about the weather, as if they knew him. I thought one was an agent he works with so I started goofing off with Josh. I took his photo next to Luigi, the chocolate maker...

...sat on the curb as we watched a guy walk home from Aldi's with headphones on, connected to the boombox he was carrying...along with me almost fitting Josh upside-down into a trash can filled with custard cups...then looked over at my dad who was surrounded by 3 Christian men praying for him; one's shirt read, "Jesus Beat the Devil"...I never knew they fought?!

Just as the uncomfortability set into my nerves, I looked up to see Rob and Megan walking their dogs across Hampton and quickly ran over to say hi. I was glad someone was praying for my dad, but it was kind of the wrong place to be doing it. Nevertheless, my dad felt like a rock star and that's what he deserves so I just kept my mouth shut for once and let him sulk in the moment.

Overall, the night was superb. I was able to bond with my sober brother and love my dad as usual, all without Josh needing a drink to open up to his family.

Tonight I will begin posting about my vacation week before Academy starts.

Last Week

2008-06-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

After having the past 2 days off work (and enjoying them very much) today I head back to work for my last week ever at the Trek Store. After the first time I left the shop to work at the law firm, I didn't realize just how much they missed and needed me. But now I am realizing how great of an asset I am to the shop, and that a huge piece of it's history and growth and improvement will leave once I leave. I was one of the original employees who carved the shop into what it is today. So, this exit is going to be a bit more sentimental than the previous.

In turn, (like how I started with the bad but ended with the good?) I am absolutely thrilled to start Police Academy. They told us last week when we took our psychological tests that it's up to us to put in our 2 weeks at work, since we still had to pass the psychological tests and physical exams and weren't guaranteed the position yet. I thought about it and talked with others and decided to go ahead and put in my 2 weeks and take off a week before Academy starts on June 23rd. I decided to take the risk and hope I get in, in order to have a week off before I dive into 6 full months of Academy.

All of my tests are complete. Now I wait for the phone call saying I am in...they will most likely call next week.

Dave Lucas - 6/1/2008

2008-06-05T10:17:00.000-07:00

I lost another friend on June 1st. I befriended Dave about a month ago when he came into the shop and bought a super nice bike, the Trek 7.7FX with tons of accessories so he could get back to riding and commuting everywhere as he used to when he was younger. He told me he was a pilot and flew his own plane he built himself. I told him stories of when my dad flew me around in his private plane when I was a child and Dave invited me to fly with him some time. We exchanged numbers and kept having to postpone a day of flying due to bad weather and my busy schedule.

I hadn't heard from him in awhile and on June 1st at around 5pm I decided to give him a call and left a lengthy message about when I was free to go fly and how I hoped he was doing well and riding his bike everywhere.

I got a phone call yesterday at work that he died in a crash that same day. He was going to fly a friend that day and the friend was running late, so Dave started up the plane to get it warmed up. He took off and somehow crashed; details on the cause of the crash won't be released for about a month.

Dave was an amazing pilot, amazing friend, and incredibly sweet man. He always had a smile on his face and always made sure others were taken care of.

Here is the article concerning the accident:
Article

Track Night

2008-05-22T06:10:00.000-07:00

I went to the first Wed. Track Series last night and am hooked. I always knew I would make a great track racer because I have such a muscular build, but I never knew I would enjoy it as much as I did last night. I could see Rob and TJ enjoyed it just as much when we all wore huge grins on our faces after the scratch race.

The clinic was led by Joe and PJ Walsh, two legends from St. Louis, and was very helpful. I already listed things I need to work on - sit closer to the wheel in front of me, go harder in the turns, and change my gear from 82 to 88 inches and my bars to real track bars. I can't wait for next Wednesday!

I've felt extremely busy lately and it makes me happy. I know I haven't been hanging out with/seeing my friends because of lack of time, but I'm making sure I at least keep in touch with them. I'm just at a time in my life where I need as much ME time as possible. When I work 8-10 hours a day talking to complete strangers at work, then drive each weekend with my teammates and race for 2-3 days surrounded by other racers, I need my evenings alone. I have 2 books I want to start/finish, letters to write to people, tons of boxes to still unpack, and a new career to focus on. I may seem selfish with my time, but I need it right now. This 6 month challenge is making me realize I was running away from myself by keeping myself busy with events that prevented me from looking deeply within.

This blog is going to be a great way to document the next 6 months.

It's raining, I'm on the couch with Fair Trade Ethiopian coffee from Local Harvest to my right, my beautiful cat Elisa to my left, and ever-so-interesting morning news on the teli; I have to do an easy 1 hour ride today and may have to drag out the trainer if the rain is as bad as the radar says it is.

Lawrence is where it's at

2008-05-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

Lawrence, Kansas. Who would have thought?

I drove into Lawrence late Saturday night to Brian and Michelle's new house. I thought I had the wrong address as I drove through cornfields, over severely uneven railroad tracks, and onto roughly paved roads. It was some time after 11pm and all I could see were randomly placed homes on large acreage plots and small blue street signs listed by numbers (1500, 1750, etc.). I almost called Brian to make sure I was in the right area when in the blink of an eye those rural roads turned into small town suburbia. The pavement quieted, the street signs appeared more quickly and were actual words (Summit, Northwind, etc.), and street lamps popped up. "Wow, we're going to have an amazing ride tomorrow", I thought to myself.

Michelle woke me up Sunday morning and I walked downstairs like a zombie, only focusing my senses on the smell of coffee and eggs. I was told we were joining an 8:30 group ride as Brian gave me the second half of his bagel, insisting I eat more because supposedly it's a long, tough ride. To hear him say a ride is tough means he is serious. I suddenly became extremely excited to start the ride, also glad I brought my Aeolus wheels. Last year I would have been frightened by a ride description of long and hard, but now it's nothing but a great chance for me to increase my endurance and fitness.

We rode about 2 minutes through town and met the group - all guys, mostly older (masters type guys), and one woman besides Michelle and I. They all watched us roll up and just stared at me with mini-smiles, curious as to who I was and excited to see a fresh face. They all asked about Team Revolution and gave compliments about the teeth on my bike. The ride took off at a great pace through town and once we hit the country roads we began to take turns pulling. I was able to ride next to many different guys, Gary, Tom, Joe, Dan, Scott, and the dude on the freaking fixed gear with bullhorns - kudos man! I took my turn pulling more than some of the others who sat toward the bike and just enjoyed good company. I enjoyed sharing the work and also looked forward to pulling off the front so that Dan could move up and make some silly comment like, "Eh, good", or "have you seen the movie Babe? You did good Babe, you did good", or "not too bad". I finally cracked about 2 hours into the ride and was glad to have Michelle show me where to sit my front wheel in the drafts. After a stop for more water we were close to town and I managed to take a county limit sign before my legs told me to stop the hard efforts. The weather was beautiful, the route absolutely perfect, and the company warm.

Once we were done showering, baking cakes for Brian's graduation party, and refueling, Michelle and I went into town to stop by Dan's shop so I could get a cool t-shirt. Dan ended up giving it to me, along with 2 neat Life is Good stickers I picked out. What a great guy - SUPER strong rider, great business owner, and wonderful friend. If you are ever in Lawrence, please stop by his shop and say hello to him - tell him I sent you. After Michelle had to pull me out of the shop, we drove to get beer for the party and came back home with time for me to start reading my new book and hang out with Nick before the party-goers arrived.

I met some great people on the ride and at the party. Everyone wanted to meet each other, were excited to get to know each other, and just had a great time. It's nice going to parties where nobody acts too cool to introduce themselves. It seems like in St. Louis some people feel they are too cool to meet new people.

What a fantastic weekend.

This week I am working a bunch in order to leave next weekend for Quad Cities. Race hard, rest well!

It's all coming together now...

2008-05-16T07:39:00.001-07:00

I don't know where the phrase "when it rains, it pours" came from, but it seems to make sense. But I don't think situations happen to increase; I think it's all about our perceptions. If I'm in a sad mood and feel like life is bringing me down, of course I'm going to think everything seems to be going wrong. And if I'm in a happy-go-lucky mood, life will seem to be headed in the right direction. The real trick is to change my attitude and perception when I'm sad/down.

2 weeks ago I was in a slump. I hadn't had a real break since I put Angelina down, was working alot, sleeping hard, barely had enough energy to get on my bike, and it was raining almost every day. I picked myself up and told myself to go to Joe Martin (NRC bicycle race in Arkansas) and forget about all the stress I had left at home. So this past weekend I went to Joe Martin and raced hard. My results weren't what I expected them to be, but it definitely kick started me back into being motivated again.

In turn, I passed the physical test to get into Police Academy with flying colors. The fastest time was by this bionic guy named George - 2 minutes and 13 seconds. My time - 2 minutes and 40 seconds:) The Detective is running my background check and my references are being contacted. I am so close to Academy that it's finally becoming reality and not some section on my to-do list.

I'm also training hard and riding well. My new Aeolus wheels are fantastic and I'm starting to manage my weight again. I always struggle with my weight and I feel like I finally have a firm grasp on it.

Everything is falling into place. This is because I have accepted a challenge from my mother - to stay single for 6 months (until November 12th, to be exact). No dates, no searching, no hand holding, no cuddling, no SEX!, NOTHING, NIENTE, NINE, ZILCH. I know, right?! But it's probably one of the best things to happen to me. I am so aware of my surroundings and myself. I can appreciate the sunset with my entire being, music sounds so much clearer, I'm singing and whistling more often, riding my bike is utopian, and I'm not a bitch to people anymore. I am taking time for me and my friends and family, that's it. My life will be back in it's orderly fashion in no time.

This weekends will be fun. After work tonight, Geoff is coming over and grilling bison burgers with me, then we're going to see the Chronicles of Narnia. Saturday I work, but leave that evening for KC. My coach just graduated from grad school and is throwing a party at he and his wife's house on Sunday. This means we're all riding Sunday morning, awesome.

Next week I work a bunch, but leave next weekend for Quad Cities. I'll be ready to THROW DOWN at those races. Plan: dominate 3/4s on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, then help my teammates who are 2s in the 2/3s on Monday.

And for a little eye candy...you may see me rolling in something similar to this nexty year:

Moving On

2008-05-06T11:02:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to slowly move on from my sorrow over losing Angelina. My dad bought a new cat last week and she is wonderful. She is a small Maine Coon with black, white, and orange fur. She is extremely lovable and very talkative. She is a great addition to my life and I am thankful my dad found such a great cat.

Training is going pretty well, but I didn't get in enough hours last week because of the move and this month's unpredictable weather. I leave this Friday to race Joe Martin in Arkansas and even though I haven't been strictly training according to the program, I feel confident that I will do well and take first.

Tonight I have my oral interview with the SLMPD. It's been an entire month since I took the written test, and I'm hoping after I pass the oral interview that the physical test will come soon after. Like I might have said before, I don't think I've ever wanted something so badly in my life, that is becoming a police officer. It's nice to find something so right for me, when in the past few years I've been chasing things that were so wrong.

Life is great out at my dad's house. The house is sunny, the backyard is beautiful, the grill is perfect for having friends over (I've had 4 over since I moved in!), and the area is quiet. I ride either my bike or my Vespa to work each day. The only downfall is that my clothes are ALL over the place and I'm wondering if I should even unpack them...lol.

Ci vediamo, mi amor

2008-04-25T05:51:00.000-07:00

"We will see each other, my love".

It all happened way too fast. I noticed she wasn't eating, she was sleeping more than usual, her eyes looked heavy, her jaw hanging lower than usual, and her hands and feet dirty as if she couldn't clean herself anymore. Her breath was smelling as if something was infected and the corners of her mouth hosted an unhealthy residue.

Something was wrong.

I frantically called the Humane Society to schedule her in. They had a 3pm opening; it was 2:20; I live 5 minutes away; I rushed over there, "Fuck 3pm, she can't wait" I said in the car as Angelina lets out soft cries of fear and uncomfortability in her box. "It's ok, it's ok, we'll be there in a second. We'll get you back to normal in no time".

The nurse asked me what was wrong and I hated having to tell her the symptoms - they freaked me out and I knew that it had begun the moment I told the nurse. We took her into the doctor's room and they started inspecting her mouth. Her mouth was swollen, infected, filled with odor. They looked at her chin; "How long has her chin looked like this?"..."Looked like what?"..."Swollen"..."I had no idea..."

The doctor offered two options - 1. Treat her with antibiotics for a few days and see if her mouth gets better or 2. Do an x-ray to see if there is possible cancer in the jaw. "CANCER!? Cat's don't get cancer! She's only 5 years old!"..."Ok, do the x-ray, whatever it takes, I'll do anything". The x-ray was inconclusive, she was moving too much. They kept her overnight so they could sedate her in the morning.

My apartment was eerily quiet Wednesday night. I could barely fall asleep. I thought of how absent and meaningless my life would be without her. I tried to remember how optimistic the doctor was about it just being an infection and fell asleep. Thursday morning I did not enjoy eating my breakfast and drinking my coffee as I sat in front of this laptop checking my email. I usually play music for her, but I couldn't turn on the music without her nuzzling next to me, trying to take bites of my oatmeal. I got on with my day, road my bike, went to work, ran errands at work to get ready for my event. My dad texted and called about 3 times, leaving each conversation without an answer as to how the x-ray went.

The doctor finally called me at work; after phone tag and relentless navigation through their terrible phone lines, I got a hold of him. All I can remember from the conversation is, "tumor", "sarcosis", "cancer", "can't go in", "inevitable", "we can give her pain medicine and you can take her home for a day or two to spend some time with her, but she won't be able to eat and will be very uncomfortable", and "this is never an easy thing to do". WTF?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I called my mom. She started crying the moment I let out a cry. She knew. She agreed to just do it now. No need to keep her uncomfortable, she had had enough. I left work, sobbing, holding back the hard cries while driving home, hitting the steering wheel, so pissed off, biting my lip, hitting the steering wheel harder, wanting to tear down an entire wall with my bare hands. Dad picked me up, crying, faces red, I hate hearing a grown man cry, I can't believe this is happening.

We sat down in that tiny doctor's room and they brought her in. She was still loopy from the sedation and head bobbing, it was painfully cute. She was wrapped in that green towel, looking like people had been holding her for awhile, and I was glad. I hated leaving her overnight in a little box, all alone, scared, ugh, fuck I hate thinking about her being alone. Her eyes were huge, like she had just lost it, like she was a totally different person. But when I held her, she found herself again, she knew who I was and knew that every time she was in MY arms, everything was ok. I wished I could hold her in my arms permanently, forever, that it would somehow get rid of the tumor. I wished I was God. I wasn't. I lost it when my dad held her. She turned him into a cat lover. When his belly was bigger, she would sit on it and stick her butt in his face, wag her tail softly across his nose, and watch the birds through the window.

And then, the nurse came in. I signed some papers. I held her again. The nurse looked at me, I cried so hard it hurt all over my entire body. She kept looking at me, wanting to take her from me, but not knowing when to stick her arms out as a signal. I wasn't giving her up until I absolutely had to. She stuck her arms out and rested them under her belly. I gave her up. I looked at her, grabbed her face, "Ti amo cara, ti amo, I'm so sorry". The doctor said it was best we didn't stay. I hate myself for not staying. I don't think I'll ever be able to get over that. Why did I leave?!!! She was so miserable, and even though I was sad, I should have stayed with her, it's the least I could have done.

The doctor said cats instinctively hide their pain more than any other animal. That's why I couldn't tell how bad she was. I wish I was God. I wish I believed in heaven. I wish she could be sitting on my grandma's lap right now, feeling love. I can't even think that far ahead. All my memory keeps bumping into is saying goodbye to her, those eyes. Those huge green eyes and that beautiful white chin.

I feel like I lost a best friend. My apartment is a sad sad place right now. Boxes everywhere, pictures off the wall, quiet, her hairballs still scattered in the corners. I donated most of her stuff to the Humane Society and gave the rest to my brother's cat. I've decided to keep the litter box, just in case I decide to get a cat in the future. Right now I can't even fathom it.

I'm moving out of this apartment on Tuesday. I'm looking forward to the day I can be content with what I did. Right now I feel like a murderer and a pansy. God she was so beautiful. She was the only woman who would sit for hours listening to me play guitar, her tail slowly wagging to the beat; she was the only woman who loved me unconditionally, with no reserve, who would sleep next to me every night and look forward to seeing me when I came home from work. I would be so exhausted each night and she knew it; she gave me so much comfort. She saved me from sorrow when I got her, keeping me company while I was couped up inside from a bad concussion, was there through every move, every break up, every death, every relationship, and always greeted each guest in my apartment with her loving embrace. The way she would close her eyes as Melisa ran her fingers down her back is something I will never forget.

I never understood the significance of losing a pet until these last few moments. I feel like I lost a piece of me. There is a hole in my heart that I'm hoping will be filled eventually.

I thought I was done crying...

Il Tempo Bellissimo

2008-04-15T13:38:00.000-07:00

The weather is absolutely gorgeous. Finally. My cold is almost gone and I'm riding like a champ. My mood is up and so is the temperature outside. I charged my Vespa battery, polished her down, filled her up, and rode her around town today. She's riding almost as well as I am!

I just ordered my first set of spare bike wheels. I bought the Bontrager Aelous 5.0s...yeah...sweet Jesus. I am almost losing sleep at night because of my excitement! I also have a new Ionos helmet coming in; it's about time! Our new team kits arrived and they are superb. Now all I need is a race to use all of these new items...oh, wait, the Tour of St. Louis is coming up, sweet!

I have a new crush. It's pretty ridiculous. I'm also losing sleep over my excitement regarding her as well. No more talk of it...I don't want to jinx anything.

I'm still preparing for my oral boards with the department on May 6th. I'm also getting ready for the physical obstacle course test. I wish I could start Academy NOW! I cannot wait!

I'm moving back to my dad's at the end of the month. It will be nice living closer to work and also saving tons of money. I also want to get off my block; I am considering moving into Holly Hills when I return to the city. It reminds me of the old block I grew up on when I was a kid - families, quiet, safe, no riff-raff. If I'm going to wear my police uniform to and from my house, I want to be 100% positive my neighbors will respect me and not snear or break into my shit.

Anyways, cheers to good weather, good riding, and an over-active heart that loses control when she's around.

Life's Path

2008-04-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

The ride-a-long I took last week sealed the deal. The shift lasted until 2, I left around midnight, and couldn't fall asleep until 3. I knew, as soon as I sat in the squad car that I was going to enjoy every second of the evening. The officers I rode with were incredibly nice and answered any questions I had about the job. I also admired the Sergeant for showing up at every call and taking control of the situations.

A few days later I was flown up to Waterloo, Wisconsin to hold an interview with Trek at their factory offices. I was not looking forward to the trip because I had already decided to apply to the Police Academy, but went with an open mind so that my decision wouldn't sway as much. After seeing the corporate environment with cubicles and seeing how my job would entail sitting in front of a computer all day answering emails and phone calls, I decided it wasn't the job for me.

So, here I am, going through the application process with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and loving every minute of it. I already passed the written exam and am waiting for my oral exam on May 6th. I absolutely cannot wait to get into the Academy. I haven't wanted something so badly in my entire life, not even winning a bike race or starting a relationship. This time, I know I am doing something that is 100% without a doubt good for me and exactly what I should be doing with my life. I am so grateful I not only know this, but also have the opportunity to do it.

I'm home sick today and unable to race Dogwood tomorrow. I'm pretty bummed. I had such an intense week with working full time, studying and taking the exam, cleaning my apartment so my landlord can show it, and not having enough time to ride my bike. My body finally crashed after I took the exam yesterday and I'm paying for it today (also, this cruddy cold has been traveling between people at work, mixed with super high pollen counts). Tomorrow I'm off work since I originally intended to race, so I will use it as a rest day. Too bad it's super freaking nice out!! I guess I'll be watching movies, drinking Gatorade, and sleeping all day.

FYI, little bro is over 6 months sober and working a sweet job with Kaldi's.

Clarity

2008-03-27T12:05:00.000-07:00

Arkansas was wonderful. I got shelled on monstrous climbs over and over again until the last day of riding. The last day was blissful. I climbed with strength and confidence. Pictures are up on my Flickr page.

Now I'm back in St. Louis and riding up hills as if a huge tailwind is pushing me from behind. Hillsboro Roubaix this weekend is going to be AWESOME and I'm glad almost all of my teammates will be racing with me. I am awe-struck at how much our team has improved and grown (mentally, physically, and emotionally).

I found God on Easter Sunday. He's been tapping me on the shoulder for quite some time now and I kept brushing him away like a horse tail to a fly. I think being single and happy has a big part to do with it. No more pushing God away and trying to fill the void with unhealthy situations. I found a really cool non-denominational service I can go to on a weekly basis.

I'm doing so well right now and am excited to see just how much better it can get. I'm moving back into my dad's house temporarily until I figure out which career I will choose. April will be my last month living in South City and I hope to make the best of it. On Monday Trek is flying me into Madison where I will then take a rental car to Waterloo to be interviewed at the factory. Usually when someone flies you in for an interview, it means they want you...but I need to stay modest and impress them with 110% energy. If I get the job, this means I will be living in either Madison or Waterloo, Wisconsin. It's sad knowing I will move from friends here in St. Louis, but also exciting for me to make a change and do something different. Trek is an amazing company and it's time for me to settle down and get a career. This would be my first job being paid salary...I'm already 24...I can't believe I am saying this!!

Anyways, I'm training my ars off and feeling pretty incredible.

Tonight - ride-a-long with my city cop friend. Night shift baby. SWEET!

Arkansas, here we come!

2008-03-14T20:32:00.000-07:00

I'm waking up tomorrow morning around 5am in order to pick up Nick and Greg to head down to Arkansas. Wow, we are going to have alot of shit in my car! 3 bikes up top, tons of food, gear, wheels, etc.

It seems that the Hell's Kitchen requires the Women's Open field to ride the 20.2 mile course twice. This includes climbing a 15% grade twice. Below is a photo of Pro men cyclists walking up a 20% grade in Italy, just to give you an idea.

Whatever, I'm already on top of this race. I'm excited for this whole trip, I really cannot wait for it to start and don't want it to end. Go big or don't go at all. FTPH!

Keeping Down With the Jones'

2008-03-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

What's up with the saying, "keeping up with the Jones'"? Why can't we try harder to have less than our neighbors? In a perfect world, neighbors would be discussing the latest light bulb that uses less electricity, the new solar panels installed throughout their home, the huge organic garden in their backyard, and the new toilet they invested in that uses less water when flushing.

This is just something I thought of on my ride to meet the boys at Kaldi's this morning.

Speaking of riding...I'm getting stronger - physically and mentally. I have more confidence because I am stronger/I am getting stronger because I have more confidence. I'm glad I invested in a coach.

One week until Greg and Nick and I leave for Arkansas. We will be training with Brian and Michelle Jensen and some other fellow female racers. Hell's Kitchen will be a tough race but it will also be good to add some intensity with hills onto my plate. I'm just excited to have a skilled coach, an amazing team, and a great season ahead of me.

Onto more riding, sleeping, eating, and enjoying my friends and free time.

Whoever said girls can't play in the dirt...

2008-02-04T11:26:00.000-08:00

...should be capped!

In the Span of One Day

2008-02-04T07:04:00.000-08:00

Ooooh this is getting good, folks

2008-01-25T19:07:00.000-08:00

BLAM!

Inspiration

2008-01-20T19:53:00.000-08:00

I had a rather inspirational weekend full of great company and amazing music. Brit and I drove to Chicago on Friday and stayed with her friend Jess in Boystown. We went to a local gay club that night for Women's Night and danced until 2. I ran into a long-time friend Beaner and was glad to see her doing well. Being at the club was refreshing - besides the fact that it was smoke-free, it was nice seeing a more diverse lesbian crowd and fresh faces while still feeling "at home".

On Saturday we woke up late, ate a revitalizing meal of eggs, sausage, and bananas foster pumpkin spice pancakes, then headed to Milwaukee for the Patty Griffin, Emmylou Harris, Shawn Colvin, and Buddy Miller concert (conveniently titled "Three Girls and Their Buddy"). Jess decided to go with Brit and I and take her chance of hopefully getting a ticket at the show. After a quick 2 hour drive filled with tons of singing in the car, we arrived in Milwaukee. It was 16 below Farenheit and our faces were pretty much red from wind burn. Nonetheless, we managed to find rockstar parking and partook in THE best concert I have ever been to so far. All 4 musicians took turns playing their favorite songs, as well as collaborating together on other songs. I'm so fortunate to have been able to experience such an astounding collaboration.

Patty and Emmylou had a hand-held light show to keep the audience attentive while the other artists tuned their guitars in between sets and Shawn had flying screaming monkeys. They were hilarious! The ironic event of the trip was when Brit and I were driving back and decided to use the bathroom in the Dixie truck stop. As soon as we walked in, flying screaming monkeys were hanging on a stand in front of us. We bought one for all three of us and have dubbed them our travel monkeys:)

Everything else from the trip is too special to type in a blog. You may be wondering why my blog title is "Inspirational". To hear the songs these artists have written or were inspired by creates an urge in me to look deeper into myself, my desires, and my capabilities. I did alot of thinking this weekend and am in a better place than where I was before Friday. Before this weekend I sort of knew what I needed to do. Now I know what I need to do, and also what I should have done a long time ago.

As for now, keep playing the YouTube video I posted at the top of this link. Brandi sang this song when she came to St. Louis and it's finally out on the net. We're all hoping she records it soon. For the most part, there's no special meaning to it for me, it just sounds fucking amazing (and of course Brandi looks gorgeous as usual).

Lou Berra

2008-01-18T09:32:00.000-08:00

My old team, the Manchester Racing Club, has had a rough winter so far. About a month ago our teammate Greg Girouard was hit by a reckless driver while riding his tandem with his wife. Luckily, they survived. Unfortunately, their bike is FUCKED and they are seriously injured.

Last night another teammate, Lou Berra, died in his sleep of a heart attack. It was extremely unexpected. Lou ran numerous triathlons and raced like a beast. In the photo below you can see how hard he worked in his races. I remember this race, the 2006 Gateway Cup University City race, when he kept pulling the group lap after lap. The announcer yelled his name each time he pulled, and also afterwards when he recovered in the speed of the pack. His wife and I stood on the sidelines giggling every time he yelled his name.

Lou was the kindest, most humble, soft-spoken man I have ever met. I never knew a guy so kind. He will be dearly missed by SO many people. I give my love to his family and his co-workers at the firehouse. Don't ever forget how precious life is.

Bump

2008-01-07T18:26:00.000-08:00

...bump in the road...brush off the debri...keep rollin' mama.

Cookies & chocolate, bikes, and happiness (not necessarily in that order)

2007-12-28T07:51:00.000-08:00

My life has been full of cookies & chocolate, bikes, and happiness lately (not necessarily in that order). My new friend has re-introduced chocolate to me and customers are still bringing in cookies to the shop each day. They must think because we ride bikes so much, we can burn it all off quickly. I say, the more I eat cookies the less I can ride! There must be a happy medium somewhere?!

As I sit here I am eating cookies with my coffee.

I've been cutting back on the drinking and increasing my focus on training. I'm getting MUCH stronger and my confidence level has grown as well. I truly enjoy cycling and am glad I found something I am good at and can master over time.

This weekend is extremely exciting. Tonight, my friends are throwing an Ugly Sweater Party and you know I'm going all out, all of my team members are coming in town for our Team Training Camp, and MY GURL Danae is coming back home to stay for a few days. I haven't seen her since Mary and I went to NY...it feels like it was a year ago!

My first neice! Addison on the right with her mom, Lorie

My (favorite) nephew Jake - getting cleft pallet surgery next month

Happiness. I had dinner with my mom, Tony, Josh, and all of Tony's kids and my nephews and niece. I realized by the end of the night that life is so much more enjoyable when you are truly happy. Everything is so much easier and simpler. There is a special person in my life who has shown me so many wonderful things. Finding my inner happiness is one of them. Finding true happiness with another person is also one of them. For the first time in my life, at the ripe age of 24, I've finally found someone I can look in the eyes with a smile and get an even bigger smile back. I'm telling you all, the simple things in life are sometimes the most important.

Let the Sponsorship Begin!

2007-11-29T17:35:00.001-08:00

I am now an official team member of the first-ever all women's cycling team in St. Louis - Team Revolution.

This is huge, folks. Look at their website and you will know why.

My last day at the law firm is tomorrow. I wasn't getting paid enough and my boss was just way too difficult to work with. As for the future, all I care about are taking the LSAT on Saturday, then the many festivities planned afterwards. More on that later.

For now - I'm keeping myself happy with good music, a sweet Mazda 5 rental car while mine is being fixed, bicycles, Jameson whiskey, and awesome friends that always seem to be around the bend no matter how treacherous my path may be.

This is a big thank you to anyone who sends me a small birthday message on facebook/myspace, takes me out for my birthday, buys me a card, calls me, texts me, comes into contact with me only once a year, writes me an email randomly after not speaking for months. I'm sorry to say that I'm the type of person who cuts off constant contact with friends when I'm going through a rough time. What's beautiful is peaking out of those rough times and seeing shining friendly faces at the surface.

Wow, alot of enlightenment here. I love you guys.

Ti Quiero

2007-11-27T16:47:00.000-08:00

...ti quiero...that's all I've been repeating to myself lately. It's Spanish for "I like you", but it's a different meaning of "like". Those who speak Spanish to their fellow Spanish speakers only use this phrase if they really care about the person they say it to. I met someone, a beautiful woman, probably the most beautiful woman I've ever come into contact yet. Ay-yay-yay, mama mia! All I can say is the timing was perfect. The previous woman in my life was the queen of bad timing; this woman is the master of perfect timing. More to come...I don't want to jinx anything.

So I was in a car accident on Sunday - the day before my 24th birthday. It was totally my fault (and slightly my car's fault, along with mother nature, and whoever paved the road to be slick when wet, and the other guy's fault for being in the wrong place at at the wrong time). I was turning right onto a street where he sat at a stop sign and my brakes locked up and I slid right into his STEP-BROTHER'S truck. More damaged was ensued upon the huge F-150 than my 4-door. He was super nice, even though he was in the middle of moving to a new house he just built. Whew! I get my car fixed tomorrow and my insurance company is providing me with a complimentary rental car in the meantime. Awesome.

If you were wondering, because I know you were, I was on my way to my grandpa's house. Actually, I was 2 minutes away from his house when I slid. I picked up a fishing pole to use for next weekend (not this coming weekend). This new woman in my life and I are going to a remote cabin somewhere in Missouri to fish, sleep, mountain bike, hike, enjoy, enjoy, enjoy, enjoy life, and relax. Ahhh I can't wait. Until then, I take the LSAT on Dec. 1st...this coming Saturday. Please send all remorse letters to the following address:

Jessica M.
Heart

Thanks!

So, my birthday was yesterday. The special Latina took me out - good times, good food, I wore a dress, makeup and heels and looked hot. Tonight - a good friend is taking me out. I love this. Friends are amazing. What's even more amazing is when someone you love with all of your heart treats you worse than an acquaintance you see only once a month. Amazing. And even more amazing than THAT! is when I finally can truly say that I am over her. Now that is beautiful my friends, that is beautiful.

Alright, so it looks like I opened up a bit here. I hope you enjoyed it all.
Thanks to all of my friends who sent me birthday messages (first to mind - Sarah Mulford-Kinkade=blogger for life). To those who forgot, no worries. Buy me a drink next time you see me out, I love it when others pay for my drinks.

Love you all, and for the first time in 1.5 years - I love myself:)

Runny nose but my wheels still roll

2007-11-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

2 weeks from the day I got my cold and my nose is still both running and stuffed up at the same time. Weird... but hey, my wheels are still rolling. My friend and I joined the Trek store gang on Turkey Day and we rode some hills near Castlewood and 109. I didn't have much air in my tires because my pump broke and putting air in my tires was the last thing on my mind. Let's just say it was rather difficult getting up hills without much help from my tires.

I rode my track bike to the gym this morning and was glad to see a guy leaving on a fixie. It's nice not having as many riders out in the winter time because you don't have to worry about some jerk tailing you or trying to get around you. It's also nice because it reminds me of how devoted I am to the sport, and how devoted the few others riding in 10 degree weather are as well. I hope more people learn that investing in warm clothes that will last them at least 10 years can bring much joy to their winter off-season.

I can't wait for our Manchester team ride tomorrow morning - we're hitting High Ridge. It's beautiful once we get to the top and traffic is usually slow on Sundays. I love my boys:)

I'm asking for a 'cross bike for Christmas. Wish me luck! Or, if you would like to donate my mom's address is....

Movin' and shakin'

2007-11-19T16:53:00.000-08:00

After an entire week of having this nasty cold that's supposedly going around, I finally hopped on my bike tonight after work. Luckily Brian had already assigned this past week as my off week, so I was able to let my body recover from the cold and riding. I feel great (even though I still have annoying nasle congestion) and can't wait for the Turkey Day ride from the Trek store on Thursday morning! I love making those boys cry for their mommies.

I had a great weekend. I had a productive session with my psychologist, hung out with several friends, partied Saturday night (along with landing a date for Friday), and slept in. I also was able to stop by the 'cross race at Queeny. I'm thinking of asking for a 'cross bike for Christmas. Any ideas?

Work is going well. I'm improving my skills and am starting to finally get comfortable with everything.

I don't have too much to talk about...mostly a bunch of personal thoughts about my brother being back home, my date for Friday, a current friend I have feelings for, and the fact that I'm finally starting to SLLLLOOWWWLLLY get over you-know-who. It's taking a while, but the process has finally been initiated.

Ok, I need to move on to my Full Circle Organic Beef Burger. mmmmmm. Leave the hormones for the bedroom!

Pick you poison

2007-11-06T19:27:00.000-08:00

Tuberculosis or separated collar bone?

Smurfette Cyclists, aka, my best friend Lindsay Wetzel received both! Trick and treat!

She just got done battling TB (which was misdiagnosed by many incompetent numbskull doctors), and once she finally healed after years of misery off the bike, she separated her collar bone during a cross race. You should have heard me scream through the car window when I found out. The entire neighborhood jumped. Please post nice things on her blog, which the link can be found to the right of your screen:)

I'm glad I am forking out money to have Brian Jensen train me. The results are astounding. I am not only in control of almost every muscle in my body now, but I have a sense of strength I never had before. I am much more aware of my body and my abilities.

Hey, so life is good. My new job is cool, I get along with my boss(es), coworkers, and am easily adjusting to the new schedule. I have met a couple of new friends, am working on bettering current friendships, and learning to deal with a past "relationship" as well as my anger towards my brother. I'm feeling good, even though sometimes I find myself losing hope.

A new friend of mine bought me an amazing book - James Frey's "A Million Little Pieces". I know of the controversy, but who f*ing cares?! I'm sure others have gone through these fictional situations and have lived to tell their story. I just have to say that I have never cried so hard while reading a book, not even Mitch Albom's books.

Work hard, play hard, read hard, sleep hard, strum softly, and drink softly:)

Demon Days

2007-10-19T05:57:00.001-07:00

My days haven't been demonic lately, but they have been a tad blue. I'm having to end something I wish I wouldn't have to end. I put alot of time, effort, emotion, and dedication into it and never received much in return. It was pretty much a one-sided effort on my part and many miscommunicated (or unsaid) words from the other part. This is tough, really tough.

In other news, the Brandi Carlile concert was amazing. I rode my scooter to the Pageant and had VIP parking on the sidewalk:) Brandi will keep growing as a musician; it's obvious in how steadily her style changes. Next week is Nickel Creek and those folks definitely know how to get down.

My training is going really well. Brian has me doing mainly technique workouts and after 3 weeks I can already feel the improvements. I've been occasionally waking up at 6 to ride before work and it's neat seeing so many cyclists so early in the morning. I don't want this to come across rude, but I feel like the true cyclists are those who have lights and cold weather gear so they can ride all year long. Dedication is shown when one can wake up at 5 or 6 to ride in complete darkness, howling winds, and through neighborhoods with crack dealers hollering at you.

This weekend is blog-worthy. I have so many fun events planned - finally! Because of [paragraph 1] I am learning how to make myself happy again and therefore made sure to be social for the first weekend in a long time. Tonight I'm hanging out with my ex, Jess. Tomorrow I am working out, getting my haircut (lawyer style but still keeping it hip), getting brunch with Beth and Laura (old HS buddies!) and spending the rest of the afternoon with them, then getting drinks with the Conley twins who want to introduce me to a hot bartender. My cousin was going to have a wedding shower that evening, but her fiance's relative died and they are flying to Belgium to visit his family. Sunday is my last day at the bike shop, so hopefully we will go out afterwards and grab some beers to reminisce over.

You may be wondering how my brother is doing. I don't really have an answer. He wrote my mom saying he is doing well and needs music put onto my iPod I lent him and also wants cigarettes. I hate the fact that he's smoking and wish he could divert his addictive behavior toward running and cycling.

Oh, and I called the psychologist to schedule an appointment (mainly because of paragraph 1 and paragraph 5). My mom is sick of hearing about it, and rightfully so, and I think this woman will have more to say.

Bike on!

Century Shmentury

2007-10-08T05:12:00.001-07:00

I did my first century yesterday. More to come. I am grabbing coffee with a friend in a few minutes...

...ok, so we started the ride around 7:30am at the Schafly Taproom. It was a nice start because J.D. and I sat behind the Bicycle Fun Club crew who led the way. The route was clearly marked with pink arrows, but it was much easier to keep a steady pace behind riders who knew where they were going.

We only ran into a few mishaps. Getting off the first ferry was a bit humorous, and slightly annoying. All of the riders rode off of the ferry onto the road, but it started with an uphill climb. As you can guess, many could not shift down and either unclipped or fell in front of other riders. I managed to stay clipped in and ride away from what felt like a route covered in land mines.

Later when Damian was pulling J.D. and I along the ENTIRE Alton river road, he rode across railroad tracks diagonally to avoid getting his wheels stuck, and ended up riding too close to the curb and flew head first into a dirt ditch. He hopped back up with a bloody leg and dirty jersey, but was determined to score some chicks with his new road rash (and perfectly unscathed bike).

Riding back along the river and on a desolate Illinois highway was rough, mentally. My feet were KILLING me and the wind was relentless, but I managed to pull for a while and felt strong. Once we rode into the city our moods changed. The Rams game had just let out and people were everywhere. We swerved through traffic and pedestrians and ended up finishing right at 100 miles.

J.D. and Damian, I couldn't have done it without you guys. What a blast! I just need to wait another year to do a century...my feet need some rest!

When G-d opens a window he closes a door

2007-09-30T06:01:00.000-07:00

I have some good news and I have some really really bad news.

I was given a position at a law firm and am taking the offer. This is a huge step for me and the best I can make right now. I am studying for the LSAT in December and am extremely excited to make this change. I have always wanted to be a lawyer; I remember as a child going to my dad's mock trial classes when he taught at Cor Jesu. This firm is amazing, Garnholz and Ricci, and full of powerful women who I'm sure will change my life. Lynn Ricci was my college professor who I greatly admired and I am honored to be working for her.

I also begin using Brian Jensen as my coach on Oct. 1st. This is another important part of my life. I am finally taking racing seriously and know that I am in good hands. I enjoy having a training schedule because I can see my progress (or lack thereof) and track it.

The bad news - my brother has refused treatment and is somewhere in St. Louis with a dead cell phone and maybe a few pairs of pants-no car, no money. This is the first time I have really discussed any of this to more than 3 people, and the reason for that is because I don't have the energy to say it. I have so many thoughts and feelings I could burst, but bringing them out of me is too exhausting. I still haven't cried, haven't punched a wall, maybe drove my scooter a bit too fast in the park or hammered too hard up a hill on my bicycle, but really haven't expressed my true feelings. I guess I'm just waiting for it to finally happen and am not forcing the emotions out of me.

I also don't have too many people to talk to. I can, of course, talk to my parents but they are exhausted as well. My Danaesy listens well and understands, and some other friends sort of understand...but really I'm wondering if I should go back to the psychologist my family has been going to. I really don't want to fork out any money over something I didn't cause...but am wondering just how long I can last feeling like this. Any ideas?

Song of the week - "Talk Show Host" by Radiohead. iTunes it if you don't know it.

I left my heart in Iowa City

2007-09-22T17:24:00.000-07:00

I received a long-awaited email from Lindsay's boyfriend David this week. He told me that the Don't Quit Your Day Job plaid kits are available! I first spotted these kits when visiting Lindsay in Iowa and ever since have wanted a set. Here is the link to the images: http://www.flickr.com/photos/helpingfriendlybook/104300427/. SWEET! Thanks David!

I met the Discovery Team. Yep. Wow, what a well-rounded group of guys. They all have very different personalities that seem to mesh really well off and on the road. Tony Cruz made the biggest impression on me. I can still remember this tan California dude telling me in his best fake hick accent, the story about the 3 males in suspenders leaning against their pick-up truck in middle Missouri. As the peloton rode by the men, the men (leaning against the truck with their hands in their belts) muttered "faggots" to the racers as they rode by. Little did they know who these men really were...

I've been riding my bike like a rock star. I feel great on the bike and am glad I didn't completely crash now that racing season is over for 2007. Brian Jensen will start coaching me in October (now called Biketober), so that will be exciting. I decided to get a coach because I truly have no idea how to train. And if I want to get stronger and smarter, that's the best choice to make. I am stoked!

Long, Long Time

2007-09-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

I was sitting at my computer returning emails and decided to play some music from my iPhone. I turned on Erin Bode and realized I hadn't checked her website in awhile. I visited her site and saw a rather interesting news blurb on the front page. It read:

"Erin Bode Group Legal Support Fund
Erin writes, 'I am sad to tell you that the future of the Erin Bode Group is in jeopardy. We have added a link for contributions to our legal support fund. As soon as I am allowed to give you more details, I will. Until then, if you care to help today you can use the link below to donate. Any amount will be greatly appreciated.'"

No one can find any further explanations of her legal difficulties; even STL Jazz Notes wrote about the vagueness of the situation:
STL Jazz Notes

Your guess is as good as mine. All I know is that this woman is incredibly talented and would be greatly missed if she was unable to perform anymore. I hope this all clears up so she can focus on her career.

Gateway Cup and such

2007-09-05T05:29:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was a blast, and went by too quickly. I raced Gateway Cup for my 3rd year and it was definitely the fastest year yet. A few Pro Women came into town to race and that picked up the pace, as well as the field being quite large and perfect for numerous attacks and breakaways (one in which I failed to bridge up). I placed an exhausted 19th and 15th the first 2 days (add continuous lack of sleep and full day of work onto those days as well), but came back strong the next 2. I didn't place on the 3rd day because I got a flat with one lap to go, but held out for 11th on the last day. That race hurt so badly, but I dug it out for the field sprint. All in all, I loved racing with the women and had such a blast before, during, and after the races.

I was also approached by a team who wants me to join, and am talking to another team about potential spots as well. THIS was my goal. I wasn't too particular about where I placed, but more focused on doing well enough to grab some teammates. As some of you already know, or have already read, I want to go pro and need to get on the right team to get me there. I've already decided which team I want to go with, it's now time to see if it can happen. More on this as it progresses...

Not much is going on this week for me. I'm done racing until the 22nd and will catch up on sleep and the usual household chores. My best friend Mindi stayed with me and helped clean my place while I was working...but I still have more work to do:)

Oh, and I got a new phone number (and phone). If you did not receive my text about it, call my old number and I have the new number listed in my voicemail response message.

Sleep, bike, food!

The following thoughts have nothing in common

2007-08-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

Forest Park is one of the greatest spots in this city. My friend and I walked in it last evening as the sun was setting and I realized how important the park is to me and so many other people. Not only is it the largest in the US, it also hosts professional tennis matches, has a great golf course, nice running and biking trail, and let's not forget the AMAZING museums. The history behind the park reaches way back to the 1900s, and it still resembles it's ancient look while staying modern. I'll bet everyone in this city has a memory or two of doing something spectacular in the park. I know I do.

I want to go pro. I'm getting stronger and smarter on the bike and want to continue my improvement. I will cat up soon and am ready to take that next level. However, I need to find the right coach and team. I really want to go to a training camp, so I have contacted the USWDCP for information. If you have any advice, ideas, or openings, let me know.

M.I.A.'s new album, Kala, is FANTASTIC! You can hear a definite growth in her songs. She kept her usual style, but experimented a bit more. I highly recommend going to Vintage Vinyl and buying it - you get a free headband with the purchase.

My friend and I are planning a 3 day ride for the fall season and I am STOKED! Does anyone know of a nice place in the US to ride in the fall? We're open to ideas.

Gunshot heard in Tower Grove Park

2007-08-24T06:34:00.000-07:00

...and as I rode Charles in Tower Grove Park, he blew his front tire off the rim. This, of course, happened just as I rode by an unsuspecting runner. The little man told me he thought he was being shot at. I had to laugh...all the way home...because he said that.

So, I fixed the tube and found out the tire was ok to put back on. I rode over to Mangia with Eggo (riding bikes with friends who ride bikes is WAY fun), then rode over to the Black Thorn to meet Truckey and her boys who are friends. We watched the Cardinals lose horribly to the Marlins (THE MARLINS?!) and laughed about scary mothers and racist south city hoosiers at Friendly's.

My CT Scan looked normal to the radiologist, but I still have to hear from Dr. Dooley. I think it will be normal. I just have to deal with post-concussion symptoms, such as my tinnitus being worse, lightheaded, tired, etc. As long as I can ride my scooter, do intervals on Baby Bomber, and race I am happy.

Newest member to my 8 bike family - Charles

2007-08-23T10:10:00.000-07:00

My co-worker gave me an old Royce Union 3 speed internal hub cruiser for FREE. I never knew life until I met this bike. He is dusty, with fenders, great tires, super comfy saddle, and Euro-style brakes. I shall name him Charles. I have been dying to find such a bike since I got back from Italy. The Italians all ride old, klunky cruisers EVERYWHERE and look so happy and comfortable on them. I now know why. I can't wait to ride Charles to meet some friends for beers tonight. I have about an hour until I start running errands...I'm going to go for a quick ride.

I'm getting a CT scan of my brain this afternoon. I'm not worried. In Madison, a co-worker of mine slammed my head against a concrete wall and gave me my 5th concussion. I was nauseas afterwards and have had killer headaches since (it's been 8 days). So, my neurologist, Dr. Dooley, decided it was best to check for slow leaks of blood in the brain. Excellent. I don't think there is a leak, but it is procedure and therefore another waste of hundreds of my dollars. Oh how health insurance in the US makes so much sense!

Italy, England, Missouri, Wisconsin

2007-08-19T14:59:00.000-07:00

Pleasant and tantalizing events have been taking place in the past few months. I went to Italy...

...and England...

...and carried my enthusiasm into the Missouri State Criterium Championship...

...as well as the Vespa store...

...and continued all the way to Madison, Wisconsin for Trek World 2008. I spent most of my time working hard, studying new products, and spending time with the newest, most profound addition to my life-a person who graces this earth each time he opens his mouth or moves his body.

Basically, my trip to Europe changed my life for the better. I am more optimistic and happy than I have ever been. I've hit a few road bumps along the way, some bigger than others, but manage to keep it rubber side down. I now have new friends, better friends, and supercalifragilistic friends who unfortunately do not live in St. Louis (you know who you are).

My family is doing well, work is going well, I've been riding my bike like a monster, and reading a fantastic book about Sandra Day O'Connor for some extra strength conditioning.

Over and out

2007-05-06T09:35:00.000-07:00

Because of my uncontrollable charlie horses the past 2 mornings, I have decided not to race in Washington today. Bummer. I was riding extremely well and ready to smash the competition, but when the body speaks I must listen. My next race isn't for a couple of weeks, so that should give me plenty of time to rest.

In other news, I submitted my T1 to FGG. And as I am typing this at a coffee shop, a hipster is riding around on his fixie without a helmet trying to fit in by using toe cages and wearing all black. Excellent. Maybe I should go ask him if he knows who Major Taylor is.

Ma Balda visited and dropped off her art I bought. ~~I will post pictures once I load them on my powerbook.~~ The panels actually connect to each other horizontally, so I will post a picture of the art once I get it hung. It is BEAUTIFUL!! Thanks Mary:)

I also painted something. My friend Katie is vegan and has taught me more than I could ever imagine about vegetarianism and veganism. So, I decided to dabble in the paint and whip something up. It's my first attempt at painting, please remember:)

Her Morning Elegance

2007-05-04T05:21:00.001-07:00

Ma Balda is coming to town!!!!! My good friend Mary is gracing St. Louis with her presence tonight and tomorrow. She won last year's BFAs at Webster University for best piece of artwork and is coming back to visit this year's BFAs and start a fight...well, not really...maybe it's the free wine. She will also be hand-delivering the piece I bought from her, which is actually the piece that helped her win last year. I will post a photo of it when it arrives.

So, supposedly Nickel Creek is back together. They are playing a show up north at the Interlochen music center, but I will be coming back from London at the time. I might go later in the month or early August to see them play; unfortunately, they are not coming to St. Louis again this year so I will have to make a road trip out of it (or take the train)! This band has helped shift my life into something amazing. I had never heard their sound before, and as every album changes so do I. No artist has ever moved me as they do, and I'm extremely grateful I can somewhat play their songs on guitar. Now I need to get my hands on a mandolin!

Isn't this weather unreal? I can't remember the last time it rained for a whole week. It might put a slight damper on this weekend. I'm going to a family event/Derby Party this Saturday at my mom's and was hoping to go swimming in her pool, but that might not happen. If anyone has recommendations on finding some sweet hats, let me know. Sunday I have a race in Washington, MO. It's a Circuit race meaning it's shorter than a road race but longer than a criterium. The loop for this race is 4.8 miles and we go around 5 times. I talked to Carrie and Team Rev. won't be there, so it will be interesting to see how many women show up. In the Tour of St. Louis this weekend we didn't have many women racing with us and it made for a rather boring race (although the payout was nice). The payout for Washington is great as well so it should be fun. I also want to check out the town - I love exploring old towns and seeing how the buildings were made. I don't think the history buff in me will EVER leave.

I should have a good weekend. Last weekend was a tad tumultuous. My brother called us crying from Indiana - his lacrosse coach for De Smet died of a heart attack at breakfast while they were at a tournament. Then, my good friend Katie told me she broke her face mountain biking. She has to get a titanium plate put in her cheek bone area next week. Then, 2 nights ago my buddies Nick and Greg were on a training ride when a lady illegally drove into their lane and gave Nick a seriously deep gash on his shin and basically totalled his bike. Greg is ok thankfully, but I'm not sure how his bike is. I noticed on the past 2 rides I've done in the past 2 days that drivers are really sketchy. Way too many people were recklessly swerving around me, turning in front of me too late, and not yielding when they should. The barometric pressure needs to start lifting!

From cast to fast

2007-04-17T09:05:00.000-07:00

Oh those days were miserable...

...now I'm smiling. If you listen closely, Louie Armstrong is playing his horn on Broadway...

If you want to see some interesting photos from the accident and the aftermath, check out my photo site:
Bullhorn Brunette

Honorable Brandi Carlile

2007-04-15T06:37:00.000-07:00

Brandi Carlile - Late Morning Lullaby live at SXSW. Her entire album - The Story - is mindblowing.

Saturday off = productivity

2007-04-14T14:51:00.000-07:00

I'm finally off on a Saturday because I was supposed to race Tilles Park, but because it rained/sleeted/slightly snowed all afternoon, it was cancelled.

Therefore, I was forced to continue organizing my new apartment situation (and buy some food, DVDs, a CD, espresso maker, and espresso grinds along the way). My first move was getting coffee with Mindi and catching up on the past few months. Mindi and I go WAY back (ok, only about 3-4 years) and first met at a bicycle race under some rather interesting circumstances. All you need to know is this chick is GOOD people - you should know her, and be her friend too.

My next task was...ah...to hard to actually type...so painful...must use photo...

After that fiasco, I proceeded to show Yolanda, my favorite cashier at Whole Foods, my new tattoo. She keeps telling me she wants an orchid tattoo, but needs to first grow the orchid seeds she owns. Keep working at it girl, you can do it. I then decided to use the $10.84 Borders gave me for buying about $400 worth of merchandise, and bought about $40 more. I ran into an old co-worker, Shawn, while leaving and decided to go snowboarding with him and our friends next winter in BC, Canada. Sweet. I then proceeded down the "Brentwood Avenue" to REI to say hello to my buddies Rob and Eggo who work in the bike area...to discover Eggo was not working there FOR THE SECOND TIME I VISITED TO SAY HELLO. Anyways, I owe her a beer and it was fantastic seeing Rob - good vibes and good Gary Fisher talk.

Next, I visited Schiller's to have my digital camera fixed and Pentax looked at. My Canon Elph SD400 has been dropped (I just dropped it again while picking it up to see which model number to type, excellent) and slightly cracked and will not take photos any longer...

...and determined that the cost to ship it, have it estimated, then repaired (if possible) would be just as much as buying a new, better, cleaner, working digital camera. So I splurged and bought the SD1000. Now my postings should bling. If you like good, quality customer service this shop is almost as good as ours.

I then proceeded to use my new hand-held vacuum to clean up all the tiny wingdings floating around my apartment; you know, the huge amount of items Swiffer cannot pick up (bad marketing). Oh, and Viviano's sells large quantities of QUALITY Italian wines and olive oil at CHEAP prices. Dig it. Now the only thing I need to organize is the increasing mound of clothes in my room. A few of you reading this know just how obnoxious it is...but cleaning the kitchen is SO much easier!

Tonight: ciabatta & olive oil, Chianti, and live jazz. No rainy weather is getting me down. The only thing getting me down is the Post Office/US Gov. Supposedly, it takes 10-12 weeks for the government to create passports, even though the website says 4-6 weeks. What are they doing in DC?!

Oh, happy day

2007-04-13T05:31:00.000-07:00

Happy day after tattoo day! Pictures soon to come...

I've unfortunately decided NOT to ride to work today. I'm slightly paranoid about messing up the tattoo in the rain, otherwise I would love to hop on the T1 and get wet. I'll have to sit on the trainer tonight and finish watching Ken Burns' "Jazz" DVD set. It's phenomenal, I recommend it to anyone; at the least it will give you good dinner conversation starters.

The Team Revolution meeting went over well last night. I love standing back and watching the women interact, get a feel for who they are and what they want out of the club. These chicks are hella fun and completely enthused - exactly what we want!! I'm glad Carrie is starting the club again and doing it even better this time. I foresee expansion throughout the US for this team/club.

Big ups to Truckey for Gaucho fries, spirits, and brilliant conversation.

I will post tattoo pictures soon.