Vince had never heard of City Mouse and Country Mouse. (Actually it turned out to be Town mouse). But City mouse is better.

So we headed to NYC to see his daughter in Damn Yankees and enjoy what the city has to offer.

Meaning food , great beer bars, and night life. The drive down was easy. Now I hate traffic,but somehow we didn't hit any. Parked and unpacked and took a walking tour of the neighborhood.

Stopped at a bar called "Tap a keg." Walked in looked like quite an array of taps. Blue Moon and Brooklyn Lager turned out to be the best choices amongst the AB products. As we a approached our seat a woman gave me the elbow for a stool and put her purse on it and walked away. OK, Welcome to NYC. The bar maven had a thick NY accent and told us. "Honey,If you can find a beer here. You must be pretty picky!" How did she know? Then a couple that seemed to have met on the street or a Craigslist Rendezvous sat next to us moving this woman's bag. She came back and went nuts on them. They seemed oblivious as they were now making out at the bar. We went up the street for sushi. Is there a better food on the earth than raw tuna? Here we had a couple variations on this. The spicy rolls with Tuna roe were incredible. We took a tour of the Korean markets en route home. Back at the apartment a night cap of Ithaca 10 was the order of the night. This beer has to be one of the 10 best beers in the world.

Day two took us to Canal St. My ex and I had bought rings there and I'd decided that the thing to do was go back where I'd bought the ring and throw it down the street. I think it would make a good read about if someone picked it up and wondered how it got there and now it was part of their journey. Down the street it rolled. Coming to rest under a truck. It's new life awaits. I turned and started a brand new day. Done. I love Canal St. The buzz, the knock offs, all crazy stuff for sale. We stopped for a street vendors mango. Her secret to peeling a mango. A screwdriver! Better get one of those in the kitchen. Tasty too. The knock off watches and Obama shirts seemed to dominate this week. So Vince haggled with a vendor and scored two "Swatches". Mine in orange. There's a surprise. Self winding. I like analog watches. How about you? We then headed to the village in search of the Blind Tiger Pub for the first of our beer adventures. This place turned out to be the highlight of the weekend beer wise. The Ginger man may have had more beers, but not the vibe, The East Village Tavern was fun but noisy, knowledgeable staff. But the Blind Tiger was best. The food was superb. Deviled eggs and and a chipotle quesadilla. As were were enjoying a fine Belgian beer we met a young Latino couple ,Jessica and Steve,from LA. They were so "LA" . Suffice to say our beer drinking stayed at the Blind Tiger as we shared beers and laughs with our new found friends.

The nest day was Megan's show. Headlining was Sean Hayes, Jack from Will and Grace. Vince's friend Corey met us at the theater. Vince's grand kids and the Mid Westerners were there with Mid western values. We had great seats and the show was fun. Been a long time since country mouse had been to the theater. Another circle opened and closed there. My first LTR had a fear of the number one in a sequence. 11:11, 111 etc. Odd things did happen that way. He got the call I'd been in accident at 11:11.He was admitted to the hospital for his final days on 11/11 only to be put in room 111. What was my seat for the show? You guessed it. 111. But that was cool, be cause he was involved in theater and loved it. Maybe all the planets were aligning for me. We came back to the apartment for drinks and then had a "fabulous" Italian dinner. Corey headed home we headed off to the Ginger Man. More subway time. The Ginger Man was what I would consider a NY bar. 20 foot ceilings ,dark wood, library lights. Open spacious. They had 70 taps with an incredible bottle list and prices to match. So we had a beer and headed to Alphabet City for another beer. I need to write down the beers as I go. As I said the Blind Tiger was the winner. Will be fun to go back. A cab ride home capped off the night. Thanks.

We'd met one of Vince's neighbors on the street walking the dog. He had sciatica and was in obvious pain,but was very pleasant and said we should get together for a drink. Plans were made and then Oliver couldn't make it but Larry could. Vince figured maybe he'd stay for an hour. A trip to market for appetizers and we opened some nice Belgian Ales as Larry held court for THREE HOURS! God was he droll. Country mouse was getting hungry. So Vince suggested we get dinner. He offered for Larry to go with us. He accepted. Court continued. Thai food was the choice. Turns out Thai Thai's green curry was better. Food was very good. A long night. but probably a "NY night".

Sunday we had brunch with Clair. What a great person. Lots of fun. It was a Bloody Mary Morning. More tasty food and laughs. It was time to head home.

Enjoy life. More tales to come. A return to cycling stories.

OGQ

Vince made the (30,36,48 -172 hour) flight in from Austria for some time in the Crippled cities.

A familiar pattern formed. We went to Danny's for breakfast for "local color". The next morning it was the Clinton St Cafe to meet Bobber and Tish and revel in stuffed french toast. The Broadway aka "Stacy's Ass" was next, where the size of the omelet was even bigger than the last. Wrapped up the breakfast tour with Fontanas. For a break I cooked on Sunday morning.

A trip to Mythaca was in order. We hit the Ithaca beverage center and spent way too much money on beer. My beer cellar is starting to look like Cliff's wine cellar. Had lunch at the Mexican place on the corner. Enjoyed a nice chorizo quesadilla and Cascazilla Red Ale. People watched. The magnet for the weird turned on and we dealt with crazy homeless guy. He made a bee line for me. Harmless. but they find me. Then back to Bingo.

A shopping trip to Sallys' netted Vince a souvenir from Binghamton in time for the dinner group. It was off to Franks and start cooking. I think our groups culinary skills and choices rival any restaurant in the area. As usual Cliff paired the wines. Vince and I stuck with summer ales and Belgian beers. The menu, fresh corn(best this summer), deviled egg with crab meat.Southwestern grilled vegetable potato salad, orzo salad and dill marinated grilled shrimp. Dessert was a lemon cake.

Cooking began in earnest. The grill was lit to grill the veggies. But,it didn't work. So Plan B was put into progress. The rest of the crew arrived. Introductions were made. Appetizers were put on the table. Mills had prepared the deviled eggs and was asking if we picked up on the "secret ingredient"? No one had, so he told us and Bob H. was merciless in his accusations that the ingredient couldn't possibly be in there. Come on, he cooked. He didn't just go to the bakery.

Sauvigon Blanc from New Zealand was the wine of choice. Grapefruit on steroids was description. Five bottles made the rounds each with own distinctive taste. Now Bob H. can consume alcohol with seemingly little effect versus his rate of consumption. Sometimes we watch in horror,sometimes in amazement! Well, tonight he was in rare form. A raucous evening followed. Thanks Frank for hosting.

We had breakfast at Franks'. Fresh blueberry muffins, eggs, and cottage bacon. I love breakfast.

Back in Bingo it was time to race. Yes, I'm still riding. Not sure when. But I still love my bike.

This was the first time Vince had seen a bike race. With he viewed with his cell phone glued to his ear. Just kidding. The race turned into a typical one 29 people and maybe 8 of us working. When the big motors went up the road. I said" There goes the race" I'd just pulled hard up the hill and they'd countered. So of course the "Yellow anchor" dug in even harder. The usuals tried to bridge but the Yellow anchor would have none of that and wouldn't contribute. So the race went up the road and we had our own little race. I gave Mike the lead out,except he wasn't there, so I tried to fend off the peleton on my own. A few came around. Nice to know I can still do a good lead out.

Dinner at Thai Thai followed. Our little hidden treasure here in Bingo. I took Vince to our "trendy hip new slice of NY Bistro". Many laughs ensued. His review was not good.

Friday was a R&R day. Vince hadn't ridden on a motorcycle yet. So today would be a good day for acclimation. We headed in to Pa then back into NY. A mango ice was on tap and it sure hit the spot. Dinner was Moxie. This place is another diamond here. A fine meal was had and we headed to the Belmar for the start of the local music scene. Dr J and the Rudimentary Sound Machine. Pretty good. Then we headed to McGirks to hear the Parlor cats,but they were on break. So it called an evening.

Saturday had us back on the MC for MC weekend at camp. This proved to be an eye opener for Vince. Some sights may not have been necessary. This event is kind of like the casting call for the Road Warrior movie. We shied away from the free beer and mystery punch being served.

The sky was giving signs of doom. So we headed out a novice doesn't need to ride in the rain. After all these years of riding,neither do I. Didn't matter. We got rained on a few miles from home. Beats the whole way. Back at the ranch caught up on the Tour de France. Vince commented I have two channels on my TV bike racing and motorcycles. I pointed out the Food channel does work. We'd decided to have dinner at McGirks to get a table for Dirt Farm. Now I'd been hyping them all week. Could be a tough sell to a musician. They lived up to their rep and played a great show.

What a week. Where did it go?

Enjoy life. I sure have been.

I'd better go ride my bike. OGQ

Barber poles represent bloodletting from when that practice was common. Now,safe to say not so common. So I've decided to remain clean shaven for awhile.

This is where the First Adopters and Exclusives part fits from last time. First Adopters are people who stay on the bleeding edge of the latest and greatest. They are willing to endure incredible levels of sacrifice to be the first to own the next New Thing. Be it a phone,TV or gasp, bike parts. Then there are Exclusives,the well heeled fans,who strive to have the Special Thing. Think MV Agusta 4. Being a member of either of these clubs means parting with large sums of money. Me I'm a luddite sometimes and other times . I think somethings are great ideas.

But after the straight razor shave Vince gives me a Gillette Fusion Power razor. OH, OH goes the red light in my head.( We all know how I love traditions.) I've just crossed the line from not three,or four blades in my razor, but jumped right into the world of FIVE blade and it vibrates! Kind of like a sex toy for your face. This little puppy upped the ante. Would I now be a First Adopter? Would it really bring nirvana to my face? After all 3 then 4 were nice effective tools. In the razor wars Gillette rules. Schick sucks. So I slid on some Art of Shaving pre-oil then some shave cream. Hit the switch a mild buzzing in my hand. Razor to face stroke one,rinse,lather repeat. It flat out works. Of course I was relearning how to shave. Verdict. Great product with a buzz. Second blatant plug,buy yourself some Alba Shave cream. My favorite Mango Vanilla.

The other pic is a steak bone from last nights grilling at Cliffs. We did coffee and peppercorn rubbed steaks. So the plate is served up and I'm eyeing the bone,instinct kicking in. I want to gnaw on that bone. Look at that red flesh so close to the bone,untainted. Think cheek meat,facial cheek. I lean over to Mills and say "I haven't had a bone since I was a kid." We laugh. Cliff returns and says "You're welcome to the bone,if either of you would like it?" Again we laugh.

Mills says take it. Now for a small meat eater like me it was a treat. The meat so warm and tender. The tearing away from the bone. Primordal feelings sliding away. Transported back to childhood all guilt of being a First Adopter washed away.

Vince, thanks for the razor. Cliff ,thanks for the bone.

Enjoy life. OGQ

So I was harassed yesterday about not keeping the blog up to date. I try.

My summer vacation started in a frenzy. I had the V-Strom loaded up and ready to roll to Pittsburgh for a date,beer and food tour. Not to mention a straight razor shave. All arranged by my date,Vince. What a itinerary he had planned for us. Not to mention a rendezvous with Mom and my sister.

With the Strom pointed west and typical July weather on the horizon. Away I went on an adventure. Just west of Corning it started to rain. A warm soft rain. I had the "armadillo suit" on so I was comfortable. But, no one wants to ride in the rain all day. After an hour it quit. I'd settled into a pattern of 80-90 mph and some would still pass me. A quick pit on the edge of Salamanca for gas and fluids. I should try a camelbak on the rides. Back on the road. RT 79 seemed endless. Then the trip through Butler where every red light was 500 feet apart and not synchronized at all I arrived at Vince's' none the worse for wear a little thirsty. He'd procured a case of Ommegang Witte for the weekend.

We headed into "Picksburgh" to go the Church Brew works. Beer snobs mark this as a must do.

Iron City was right across the street. Good and Evil, Black and white?

A huge old church we're if you had a Catholic upbringing you have a moment of guilt and wonder? "Should I be drinking in a church?". This quickly passes as you read the beer menu. We went with the sampler and the very cute beer maven gave us the other two tap samples with it. For eight 6oz samples. A chorizo quesadilla and hummus for appetizers. Some tasty brews. Odd, I liked the lager best. Hefe next. The coconut stout was a bit odd. This was followed by a trip to Sushi Too for may favorite,tuna, octopus , eel, eel roe and some hot tuna rolls. A East Brewing beer to pair with it. More bliss. We went up above Pitts for the scenic view. There was a Smart car there. 21K for a car that runs on premium? Not too smart. Ride your bike.

Day two had us headed to The Stone House Barber shop for a haircut and a straight razor shave.

Now I've had a beard or some sort of facial hair for 27 years. Clean shaven is not my M.O. But I've always appreciated rituals and a straight razor shave is one I wanted to experience. Nothing like a little pampering. Nervous? No way. He nicked me a few times and I broke out in a few places for the revealing of a baby face. Vince told me I looked less "Severe". I'm not sure that's a compliment or not,then another friend said the same thing. Hmmm, maybe i use that teacher look too often. So I'll keep it off for awhile. Shaving is a pain in the ass. At least razors have progressed. But that's another posting about first adopters and exclusives.

So with a new look we headed back to Picksburgh to visit the Sharp Edge and attend the Belgian Brewfest. Arriving early as per my norm. We opted for a bit of lunch and a beer. I had an ostrich burger and frites. Vince had a Belgian burger and frites. Both were excellent as was my Hefe. The frites were so so. But the spicy aolli was superb.

Time for the tastings they had a hundred beers to sample. My Omme shirt drew in conversation as many patrons ahd heard of it but never had it. I represented and told them to have their local distributor get it for them. Had a great time talking with the other patrons. Near Mid-west friendliness. The best of show was Piraat,the worst was Kasteel Rouge. That was evil on tap. I won one of the raffles scoring a beer bucket and glasses from a Russian Brewery. We ended up trading shirts and he gave me some product. As we left the festival and were maybe 200 ft from the fest. We were accosted by the police and someone from the brewpub.

"Where did you get that beer?" Me. inside,he gave it to me. Them. " You stole it!" Me, excuse me? Vince is now worried there maybe an altercation. I said it's not open I can be here. Back and forth it went. The cop was cool. The other guy was adamant. So I gave him back a few bottles as I slid one in the trunk. ODD. No arrest,our reputations intact, we went back in a for a bite to eat as food was extra at the fest. Had some laughs with Todd and Gabriella, Vince's friends. After sobering up a bit we headed home. Enjoyed a night cap of a Witte in the "Tuscan room".

The Tour of Pa was in town. But never made it . Weather was tough for them. Today was Rendezvous with the family. Weird, I go to Pitt to see my Mom from Florida. Shopping for groceries and cooking are the order of the day. Coffee rubbed tenderloins,black bean soup, corn. A variety of cheeses for appetizers. Wine and beers were poured. Vince started with beer and switched to wine. Dropped this little nugget. My Mom always said " Never mix the grain and the grape" I had to agree. A nice evening in the Tuscan room despite the storm.

Monday we took Mom to airport after a filling breakfast at Pamelas' diner. A fifties style diner. Where they're known for lyonaised home fries. Tasty. Our waitress had the hot rod 50's chick thing going with some cool old school sailor ink on her arms. After getting Om on the plain we headed back to the food district. The markets were very cool and I could do that if I lived in the city. Ditch the car. Be urban,slow the pace.

We then stopped in Tarentum to hit the Bicycle/Motorcycle shop. Gattos. Now this palce took and old YMCA and made a MC/bike shop along with a diner and a pre-requisite HD shop. The Gattos own the town business. Never seen anything like it. The bike shop was so so. The MC was well stocked and even old bikes to look at. The HD part who cares? No bro huggin' for me.

Back at the house more fun cooking and eating a few beers sampled.

Tomorrow would me an suiting up an heading home from five days of adventure. What a trip.

It was overwhelming all that was packed into that short time frame. Thanks, Vince

Where will all this take me?

For the return ride home I chose a more two lane itinerary. Worked out well a couple detours. But about the same time,time wise. The Strom and I enjoyed the hills and turns.

How do Smoke on the Water and Joy to the World get stuck in your head?

Whats on the Ipod now? James McMurtry and Keb Mo.

On the bike side the Dillinger got upgraded to the carbon fork. Light stiff precise. But not the cush of steel. More riding today.

Enjoy life. I am more than ever. A klean shaven. OGQ

The old man was recruited back to a 12 hour team, again with the "don't expect to win" invitation. A tough one for me. But my friends wanted to do it and that's what friends are for.

Besides if you read this stuff,look what they've done for me.

So Venus says" You're doing a better job of keeping the competitive thing in check. Just go and have fun. OK,cool. I'll try. I'm just the hired gun. They'll take care of the details.

Race day comes and it's raining. RAINING HARD. I'm not relishing 12 hrs of rain. So I go to Bobbers' to carpool and fall asleep on the couch. A prime example of how to motivate your team.

Bobber and Dawn are psyched for this. Me, I'm barely moving. Elliot will meet us a for a pre-ride.

We drive down in the rain. I tune in some old Chicago on the Ipod. The rain lessens. I'm into the tunes. Park,set up camp. Suit up. Thirty feet out on the bike and it washes over me. I love riding my bike. I'm checking lines on the single track. Figuring where to kill it and where to back off a little. Final determination. Nail the hills. Work the sections that don't flow and rip the double.

With the advent of no Le Mans start,I'm drafted into the start. They decided my aggression would be a good thing on the opener. Good to see Jeff and Katina there. It's a road start. Wouldn't you know it. The single speed 29'ers are setting the pace. One guy passes us and takes the lead. I'm not worried. I rock two laps and have the third fastest lap of the day. Each team mate takes their turn and back out I go. I'm letting the bike run and BAM. The GD Stan's stuff fails me again. I air it up. Phhht Phhht it goes trying to seal up. It won't do it. Stop. Tear it apart and put a tube in. Back in the team sees grumpy old man. The rotation continues. I had a bad spell and actually took a nap. Back out. Hammering the hill on the half way point. SNAP goes the chain. OK I can fix it. No go. The chain tool breaks too. Bad things happen in threes,right?

( Me I'm seeing ths as losing our lead and letting the team down)I run back to the start. Yell to Bob get the other bike. I'm and frantic ball of energy. They bring the bike up and the officials decide I can start where I left off. Cool. Now I'm on the Hooligan 26 in wheels. I adapt fast. and come in. Venus is saying take a break,she'll go out. OK I relent. Elliot is ready to do the rain lap.

The Ommegangsters are rallying. I head back out for a rain lap too. Bobber suits up in case I'm to whipped to do the double. Turns out I don't have too. Their last rider went on course at 7:07. We're done we won. So both Elliot and Bobber won their first mountain bike race. Very cool. Our awards were a carved stone. The promoters ahd a lot of food. We had a lot of beer. The band was rocking. We started with a Witte. Then Elliot brought out the West Vlanderen gold. This is rated the best beer in the world. We poured and let it breath while having a Trappist Rouqefort. The had quite a raisin caramel taste. After a few more. Elliot and I headed up to hear the band. Everyone was rocking we passed out some Omme to the band members. The passed out percussion instruments and got the crowd involved. Very cool. Then we came back and dragged Bobber out for more drinking. Finally we crawled into Chez Bresee and called it a night.\

In the end a great weekend. Thanks. Enjoyed it. OGQ

So the ONG did an interesting thing and gave up a local race and went to a political fundraiser. I was asked by a friend to be "arm candy". Maybe when I was a 20 something and dated Captains of Industry would I have considered myself that. But now? What a compliment. So I drove the "little gay car" down. The Jetta is not welcome at such events. The Strom would have been. We arrived, made our introductions and went to get a drink. I'll have a beer. NO BEER. OK Plan b. I'll have a Bloody Mary. Strike two. Martini? Not a good idea, if I'm supposed to behave myself.
So I settled on some red wine. Made a plate of food and watched the story unfold.
Anyways the premise was she had a couple "hotties" she wanted to introduce me to and had here eye on one herself. If he showed she said "I'm dumping your ass in an instant!" That's cool.
Well the hotties never evolved. Hers made an appearance. So we had laughs and had some great food. She gave me the scoop on the people there. We mingled. had our picture taken( We're not a couple was used and met with sly grins).Pressed the flesh. The host were great people no air what so ever to them. He had a great art collection, a Picasso and a Matisse. But what was coolest was his sculpture collection. Being the 3d guy it was fun to see someone have art other than to cover the walls. The politician spoke........and spoke........and spoke.......... You get the idea.
We slid out and got some food. Talked abit more. As the event broke up we bid or goodbyes and strolled down the street to maybe meet some other people. Another strike. We called it a day.
Thanks Karen, that was fun. The new house is very cool as are the big cats.

So now this week is nuts with work,home repairs and racing.
I'm making the return to a 12 hr race this weekend. Of course I want to do my best.( I have to remember this is about fun.) I'm sweating bike choice. The shoulder and hand are being grumpy. Rigid 29'er or front suspension 26? I'm leaning to the Dillinger. I want to see how I do on it.

Bobber and Venus have been working on their skills and getting the "middle ring king" going.
Apparently Bobber hit in the big ring the other night and "got on top of the whoops". Bumps disappear at speed, when you let the bike "hunt". The new rig should be a treat at speed.
They're both riding better than ever. Looks like we all might do double laps to start. That's cool too.

Pics to come. I'm working hard.

Whats on the Ipod? Vusi Mahlasela, The Deraillers( Like a train,not a bike) Uriah Heep and early Chicago.

Enjoy life. OGQ

Another. File this under life isn't fair. Todd Kapeghian. Todd is gone from our world. Taken by a heart attack. Here was a man that made most cyclists look fat. He defined fit. His legs spoke for him. Modesty was Todd. Now all we have are our on memories of him.
Todd that as "tired". Then would crush you in a TT. Todd that had been up playing a gig all night. Then crush you in the RR. Todd that played in numerous bands and was a session musician in Nashville. Pedal steel, one of the best. But he never told you where he was playing. Modesty.Todd who's name is on albums.
Todd that showed us his "hero's" guitar that he'd just got on Ebay.Enthusiasm for life. That is Todd.

Now Todd is with Dave Panella another TVC'er, goin' up the spirit in the sky
All I know is I hope his trip there was as fast as he was. No pain.
Todd like Dave you'll always ride with us. It saddens me you're gone.
Google his name. See who he was. Listen to his music. Revel in Todd.

As I always end these with, Enjoy life. I mean it. Todd did everything to live right, and his heart quit. Period. You just never know. I started this blog all based on a heart attack. my father's years ago. Cheating the reaper. Here it is another one fallen.
Ride fast my friend. Smile down us. Play a lick that makes you smile.
We should all do the same.
OGQ

Blogging is tough this time of year. With my shift away from racing. There's not a lot to update.
Work gets crazy this time of year and who needs to hear about work. The basic premise is "I create, so I can recreate."
We've had a lot of birthdays this month. But we snuck one over on Mills. Took him to Moxie and the crew was there. We also had a "Henk" sighting. Great food and friends. Surround yourself with these. Don't forget the great wine and beer!
I'll try to interject current events throughout my memory dredging today.
First,Gas prices. Everybody bitches. But the don't do anything like carpool,ride your bike, don't drive as much and God forbid. Walk. I've been riding the Strom to work. I get isn't it cold? Not really 30,is fine if you dress for it. Let's see the Strom gets 50mpg,the Jetta,25-30,the truck 20.
Tough choices.
Been getting more mountain bike time in. Swapping between the Hooligan and the Dillinger. Big wheels,little wheels? At least the geared and full sus bikes are gone.
We hit Shindagin for the first time this year. Bobber has his new bike. Very nice and it's ORANGE!. He's riding better on it. We found two new trails. One was just marked with ribbon. But it eliminated the crappy road climb. We capped of the ride with ice cream.
Took Pops out for a ride on South Mountain. We saw a porcupine and of course I didn't have the camera. Either way,very cool.
So riding the MC home from work. All five cars I ended up behind we on their cell phones. What can be so important? When I sit at the light in the morning and observe the talkers. It's women and contractors on the phone. What's up with texting? I don't get it.
At work we have a phone system,email and a mail box. You'll get the same message on all three.
Are we all really that stupid? Sometimes it's even posted on the bulletin board. Now, I might be a Luddite on some things but technology is cool in others. So to each his own. But,just hang up and drive wrapped in the comfort of your steel cocoon.
The O'b's had a picnic for us all. Tuna,thai chicken,thai salad, grilled cheese, smores, burritos. It was a good time. Beer flowed like wine. Oh that did too. Pops even busted out the 12 year old Scotch. I value my vision.
Went to camp. Ahhh camp. It was good to see lots of people. Changes everywhere.
Frank had his 70th birthday party. 96 people it was fun to put a face to many names. I had "one beer". see pic. His son in law works for Guinness.
Well enough of this this. My second press of single lot shade grown,fair trade is ready. My treat to myself.
Besides Henk and I are doing a road ride today. That's become a rarity.
Enjoy life,thank your friends for who they are.
OGQ

As usual Bogger won't let me upload pics. I'll try later.

I'm trying to branch out in my reading. Normally murder mysteries and serial killers. Occasionally a good sci-fi thriller. But this time I read In Defense of Food and the Tipping Point. Now we all know I like food. Most food. But economics is on the fringe. I leave that up to Cliff.

So book review one. In Defense of Food. It made we want to change my eating habits again.

I used to be pretty much a veggie guy. My body would tell me when I needed animal protein.

After I'd had it I could smell it in my sweat. Odd, but true. I just never was a big meat eater.

Eat all you want. But this book changed how you looked at food. Never jumped on the low fat bandwagon either. Cycling seemed to take care of that. Ride to eat,Eat to ride.

In the book they explain how when they remove something (usually nutritious) from food,in go the chemicals. Take a look at a loaf of bread. You may not recognize it. We usually just look at the first couple ingredients. Will the bread maker get busted out? Now and then.

Basically it's back to good Third World foods. Rice, beans, Quinoa,veggies, lots of spices and more fruit. Odd I don't eat a lot of greens. Maybe I should. Either way I'm giving it a shot.

Now the Tipping Point was fun to see how trends start. Funny, nothing I own. But then it doesn't matter. The most interesting part of the book was about "chippers" people who smoke but don't get addicted. Apparently this drives the tobacco companies nuts. They keep looking for ways to hook them and can't do it. I also did a little poll with teens I know who smoke. Advertising had little or no impact on why the smoke. The most common response was my friends do it. I didn't want too. But it just sort of happened.

So if you need a change read either or both.

Meanwhile I'm going to try to get this guy off my tail.

Ride your bike. Laugh. Smile. Enjoy life. OGQ

Oh and by some coffee from http://www.counterculturecoffee.com/. The micro lot beans are like a fine wine.

So I took the Hooligan out for it's second ride. Now sporting a 32/18. Chain problems gone. I focused on the handling. The Reba needed a bit more dialing in. I missed my Ergon grips.
Note one, Big wheel,steel fork,Ergons was giving me a better ride than a slightly stiff Reba with Ourys. How would carbon bars fit in the equation?
While Pops was hacking and wheezing his way around the trails. I focused on speed and climbing.
Now here's wear it gets murky. The Hooligan was a razor compared to the Dillinger. Both have the same WTB front tire. I'd forgotten the felling of a front end tucking,drifting searching for traction,but not spitting you off. I knew I was at the edge of adhesion. it felt great. the Hooligan ripped the climbs. I decided it was a keeper. I could race this bike. I was thinking of going total 29er. But we'll see. I can set the Hooligan up with a steel fork, 29'er front wheel and get some more ergons. See if it behaves as well as the Carver. Time will tell.
I've been pretty much a roadie lately. I rode the Enemy of Fun Tuesday. First time since I broke my leg. 32.8 miles 3100+ ft of climbing. These aren't easy hills either. Did it on 2:01. Tough.
Race results a 4th and a 6th. Good TT motor,the hills need work. I made the cut last night till Belden. Then "Big" Todd turned the screws. He's winning everything. Good for him.
Haven't got any response from the crew on the 24 hrs of Round top.
Summer beers have invaded the fridge. I love hefeweizens and wheat beers. The Sam Adams contest winners,we're well, winners.
Trying the Latin American place tonight. Food is to be experienced.
Been riding the Strom to work. 50 mpg and and a good time to ad fro. Maybe more if I baby it.
Enjoy life. OGQ

Yes it's been awhile. Never sure how people find time to update. Latetly it's been the rinse later repeat cycle for me.

We did do an epic dirt road ride. That was really fun. Muddy climbs etc. A true spring classic. Better than booze or drugs.

I did do the opening club races. We lucked out weather wise. Found out who has legs and who doesn't. This means it's time to remove the winter growth. I shaved mine April one. I hate the first time of the year. My heart goes out to the ladies on that issue.

So the new Hooligan is built. Haven't ridden 26 inch wheels now in almost a year. Been running the Dillinger 29'er fully rigid. The Carver has a Reba. All have different yet close gear combos.

The 29er has 32/20(43in),the Carver has a 34/18(49in) and the Hooligan has a 32/17(49/in) wanted a 18 but the eccentric really won't let you get the chain right.

So the Carver had a return to the fold after the Dillinger's BB crapped out on me. Now BB's are supposed to have a "Standard" now that most are external bearings. This is another cycling myth. The manufacturers can't seem to agree on anything. Then release the next big thing. So it was a trip to the shop to discover,the standard doesn't exist. Order a BB. Ride the Carver. Now I feel that bike is magic. But it took abit to re adapt to it. Then the magic returned. But I missed the 29'er's bump eating wheels. My first 29'er MR BIGG was a horrid nightmare. I wasn't feeling the love of big wheels. Yes, I won a race on it. But sold it asap. Back to the Hooligan.Then I rode a team mates Niner. Ahh there was something to this big wheel thing. Soul kicked down the Dillinger and I've been on it ever since. The best part on it. has to be the Argon Ergo grips. My old hands are loving these.

Blue and orange. I wonder if Jonathon Vaughters will be calling me to ride for Slipstream.

So today the new Dillinger will take it's maiden voyage. Will I love it? Will it feel like a sketchy BMX'er? how about traction. I know the big wheel shines there. Will my "test pilot " abilities shine through and I won't even notice? Time will tell.

I've been riding South mountain quite a bit. Bobber has me dialed in pretty well. He rode his "new bike" to be on Saturday and was doing quite well.

Venus. Turned forty. No big blast yet. So no lurid stories or timeline of debauchery. She did go to a martini bar with her HS friends. Seems as though martinis have crept into here thinking. I reminded here of the bad things that happen to people that drink martinis.

The big Zook is prepped and ready to ride. Now if we could get some decent weather.

The sun is shining. I'm smiling. I have a good life. So should you. Go ride your bike or do whatever makes you smile.

Oh and I heard Astana and Rock racing will be at the circuit race at the end of the month. Tuning up for the Tour of Georgia. Michael Ball has a big mouth and tons of money. Cycling needs the money. Besides he's not the only one that has hired dopers.

We're not Dopers. We're just dopes. Is our motto.

Enjoy life. OGQ

Not much happening here. The weather has sucked forever. We head out in the cold and ride. Because anything beats the basement and trainer hell. March didn't even tease with a couole of days in the 50's. The sun has barely shone until 6pm and I'm done riding by then.

On the positive side.

1. I'm learning the South Mountain trails and have enjoyed my rides with Bobber on them.

2. Club racing starts next week. Who will be ready? Who will be fit. The boys going to Roubaix are going to be in for a HUGE surprise if they haven't hill the hills. Those New Englanders are tough.

3. Made a new friend. His name is Karl too. Don't meet many of them. We shared many laughs,beers and a pizza. Lots of parallels in life. Incredibly open minded. Really brightend my week.

4. Venus scored our tickets for the Fruita trip!!!

So as we head into the weekend. Looks like cards tonight. Dirt Farm at McGirks,breakfast.

Cross my fingers to ride outside saturday and sunday.

Haven't heard that before? Have you.

The Icicle Ride is this weekend. We're skipping that drive. But it would be cool to ride with e the whores again.

Oh the Living with war. I've been on the anti war music kick. Lots of Neil Youngs and Steve Earle.

Check out Ray Booneville too. You can gear his new CD at his website.

That's all the freshness here.

Crayons are cool.

Enjoy life. OGQ

We celebrated Pops birthday last night. Everyone has cabin fever after all this crazy weather we've had here. Thursday teased us with the high 40'. I snuck in some hills and miles on the Battlestar. Cold in the shadows. But warm on the hills. I truly love to climb.
So we went to the Ale House. Pizzas ordered in advance. They had some new brews on tap.
Starting with a Rogue Chocolate Stout. Very good. Then a Saranac Pommegranate Wheat. I felt healthier then ever. Followed up with a Mad Monk Dunkle Weiss. Capped the night off with a Leines Sunset Wheat. Bobber had a Caramel Porter that was quite tasty too. Perhaps we drank some summer ales to make us believe summer was coming. As outside the temp had dropped and snow and freezing rain appeared.
Pops asked that the only gifts we give him were "Shiny and expensive". I cut a quarter into quarters and four of us chipped in for that one. Bobber provided him with hours of fun in a lighted massager and some "Mars mud" aka the "Prison sex toy". Pops also got a beer from the White Trash Brewery. A fine beer it is. Nutty Bars were the dessert tonight as Venus was off skiing and not baking.
Now notice the rings on the glass. The telltale science of consumption? The first few savor the beer. The next a little bigger. Then last. Gulp. Ready for another? But of course.
Every birthday is a good thing. Keep them coming Pops.
While on the subject of bad weather. The Daytona Supercross got pounded and the new kid on the block schooled Vilopoto in the lites. Trey Canard took the holeshot and never looked back.
Great ride by a kid who hasn't gone Rockstar.

Enjoy life. OGQ Pics to come. Blogger is being a pain.

Gay is the new Black. No I'm not talking about my new kit for the year. Which will be black.

Time for a bit of politics. So we have John McCain who's flipped parties and is now counting the religious right. ( I assume for the big bucks to continue.) I used to think he had his head on pretty straight, being the POW and all. But, that has been erased. So we have Hillary and Obama.

As much as we'd like to think we're progressive here. I don't think Americans will vote for a black or a woman. I hear people say."I hate Hillary" Really? Why?, "Just because". That explains it. Or, "What kind of name is Obama? Is he a terrorist? ". Those two questions pretty much sum it up. Now how does all this tie in to the title?

Last election the Bushies used gay marriage to derail everything. How come neither party is courting the gay vote. I don't hear the Log Cabin Republicans promoting McCain.

All of the candidates will gladly take our money. pander for awhile to win our votes. Then do nothing to make things equal as a Americans. I think single people should be pissed too. They miss out on a lot of benefits or pay more for them. I'm not big on ranting politically.so I've said my piece. Of course I will vote. But I will keep and eye on who would do the most for the new blacks.

I lead a good life. I have all I need, but not all I want. Don't we all?

Now of course the weekend came. Which meant the search for a good fish fry.

With the weekend also came another storm. But the lure of food was strong. So we visited Tish at the hospital. Get home soon! Off we went to the Elks club. A winner. They even had 1.50 Smitticks drafts. Your choice of beer battered , fried fish, or turkey and biscuits. Mashed or fries and fresh veggies. Dessert included. We also hit a bar we've never been to Tranquil, that it was was. Not quite Nyquil, but you were able to talk and not yell .

The poker chips came out Saturday. Bobber busted out the last games prize because it was March. Just like the month he marched right through for another win. I started strong but faded. The last lap push didn't happen. We all had a turn in the hat. But it's magic just could not be transferred. A Long Trail Ale shirt was the prize tonight.

We had pizza from a new place and it was tasty. Beers , Rodenbach Red sour ale( not a winner), Sierrra Xmas Ale, Brooklyn Chocolate Stout, Ithaca smoke porter, Leinkugels wheat. Maudite,(a favorite) maybe one or two more. No all these were shared, not drunk by me.

My Mom thinks everyone on the net is a serial killer or evildoer. So here's my serial killer pic.

Enjoy life. OGQ

So it seems the only people with today off are teachers and lawn care people. Go Peaches!
The theme here always seems to be food. So here we go.
After last weeks "minnow fry" at the VFW. Strike one for me. I decided we go to The House of Reardon for their fish fry and macaroni. Now I want a real fish fry. Being the good catholic that I am and following the rules of Lent here ( I gave up work for Lent) I'm thinking homemade macroni is like icing on the cake. So we go over early our waitress comes over I'll have the fish fry. Ahh? What fish fry? That was last week. What??? Strike two. So I go with a Buffalo wing wrap and we all share some sweet potato fries that truly are sweet.
Off course breakfast was the "diet plate". Stuffed french toast. It leaves you stuffed. This made riding necessary. But it turned into a trainer day. Then a snow ride on Sunday.
With Tish going to the ER and being admitted. I invited the Bobber for pizza. I'm getting the hang of the transfer. So it kind of looked like a calzone with a pizza. But It was a sundried tomato, chorizo and four cheese on whole wheat.
Beer pairing was Kwak and Unibroque Terrible. Delicious.
Monday night was the dinner group. Roast duck, garlic eggplant, seaweed salad ,dumplings, spare rib hot pot and Kung Pao squid. All tasty and filling. Cliff paired the wines I can't remeber the names.
Monday also brought a rare warm spell and a hint of sun. The siren's song of hills lured me out on the road. Ten minutes in rain. I wnat to climb Vincent Hill. I haven't since I broke my leg.
Armed with a whopping 42/25 I'm into after the Beartown and Monkey run climbs. 21/23/25 the road is nothing but cinders. Standing is not an option. Ghost shifting was, back and forth with the 23/25. Slowly,very slowly I clawed my way to the top. Then I could feel the road esae and it was done. A smile washed over my face. Rain? What rain? I'd just beat Vincent.
Today was a road trip after the car was fixed. Only it developed a new malady. The oil light decided to keep coming on and beeping. Had plenty of oil. Weird.
But we stopped at the Original Dougs Fish fry. Now this is what I think for a fish fry. Light krispy not oily. Delightful.
I'm thinking Slimfast tonight for dinner.
Now on the darker and crazier side of things. There were two fatal accidents here recently. One I just missed coming home from work by minutes. I saw the car involved going the down the hill moments before.
The other a lady fell asleep and crashed into the barried flipping over the bridge and landing on an oncoming car. Can you imagine witnessing that? Or being in the car that was landed on? Scary.
Enjoy life. Really enjoy life.OGQ

I think today is some big ball sport day. Actually I know it is. But I don't care. Never have. It's been two wheels my whole life. Oh, I did like the return to playing tennis as rehab this summer.

But as usual I'm heading off a different path.

So we actually had the storm they predicted. Kathy and I decided to do breakfast if we didn't have to work. So she loaded up Zach(her 2nd grader, who is a nice kid unlike this one http://suki-smith.blogspot.com/) and came and picked me up.

Zach made the call. Lets go where the food is best. Good call. Clinton St. I had the "diet plate".

Kathy asked me who I might vote for. Zach advised me "He'd rather have a black than a girl president". Mom asked did you hear that from Daddy? He grinned. She said expalin yourself.

Zach replied "Just,just,just." Then went back to his gameboy.

Friday should have been the Artwalk,but that wouldhave been the Art Skate so we declined and just did dinner.

Saturday started off with a retrun to the Pig for breakfast. They have a winner there. Gald they're back. It was decided to play cards tonight. Tish had to do a show on "Alien Porn" or something like that. So She was out. Venus was away. So it was guys night out. After breakfast Mills and I went in search of a pizza stone and a rolling pin. Just like the Holy Grail,we had to go to many places to fulfill this purchase.

Foloowing Cliffs lead I opend the first bottle of Shiraz to prepare the cook. As I thought it was best to have food ready when they got here. Well the first pie turned into a calzone as it stck while trying to slide it on the stone. But the second one ,a white with pesto, slid right on. Brownd up crspy and tasty. Both were a hit. Cliff brought the cake that could kill a man. We ate drank and went into a chocolate coma.

Time for cards. Milss was primed after his big win last time. Cliff was in search of his first win. "Full House" grinned and said "We'll see". Short version. Everyone palyed tough. I even bought a hand. We fell we came back but in the end the master won. Now he's already for St Pats. Skip the Valentines.

Tme to ride.

Thank your friends for being in your life.

OGQ

Maybe that's the point of the blog, sharing stories. This is a big down time of the year. Goals need to be set for next years events. Things need to be caught up around the house. where to start. But the weather doesn't help. Sure we sucked it up and rode in 14 degrees last weekend. Yes, it was nice to get outside on a day they forecasted would be miserable and was actually quite tolerable. Outside beats the trainer any day.
The "Battlestar" is resurfacing as the "Millenium" Falcon". The old boy got some love finally. New cables,housings, a fresh coat of flat black paint, new tape, and brakes. I got some grocery panniers for Christmas. Looking forward to doing more errands and such with it. it looks like a new bike. Can't wait to ride it. I know. Like I need a new bike.
I gave my old Delta V to Henk to use a commuter. he's digging it. Fenders make real. Another old bike gets a new life. Go Joe Commuter.
As always my friends and I continue to have our fair share of fun. Mills killed it in cards last weekend. Enough to hook him in for more. Dirt Farm rocked a new venue. Like I've said before I have the best friends.
The dinner group hit Theo's for MLK day. Tasty wings, sweet potato fries and killer cornbread.
Beers from around the world quenched our thirst.
Currently on the ipod Drive by Truckers new cd. Brighter than Creation. Now they're rocking again. Southern style. Also been revisiting most of Neil young and Crazy Horses work.
Nothing like feed back and distortion saturated guitars.
I'm happy, healthy and dealing with the winter doldrums. What's the silver lining here?
People read this and respond. Cold clear blue sky days. but best of all the moments shared with friends.
Enjoy life. OGQ

So here I was thinking of what to write for the New Years blog. The obvious,stay away from New Years Resolutions. Easy. None.

I had the Ipod on shuffle, American Pie came on. I have a love/hate with this song. My friend Chris used to play acoustic shows at the bar. He'd always finish with American Pie. A good way to end the night. The bad thing is Chris chose to take his life. So the last thing I remember about him is him playing that song. Not a good way to start.

Bob and Tish had some us in following Tish's treat at the movies. Then Venus got the call that her Mom was in the hospital. Not a good thing. So now she's dealing with that. She's a trooper.

We're here for her.

On a brighter note last year at this time I was toddling around on a walker wearing compression stockings. Venus had organized what then turned into the "Endless Party". Crazy to look at the calendar and see all that stepped forward to speed my recovery. Thanks.

We all went to the O'briens to see the new kitchen and eat more food. There Carl in Fla, The part you've been waiting for. Food and drink. We sure did and had a good time. That's what I like to read and write about.

The Supercross season starts this weekend. Can Bubba do it again? Should be an exciting year.

Enjoy life. OGQ

I goofed and somehow deleted the whole blog pic folder. Welcome to the digital age. Here today,gone today.

But, I think these five pics sum up my year.

Bobber,he makes you laugh. He has a dry sense of humor that just comes out of nowhere. Hardly overrated. My friends are the best. I know yours are too.

Duffy and I. Hey, 27 years later and we're still smiling. What a long strange trip it was.

The return to Kross. One the "Wall of Death" and two a perfect Kross practice night.

I'm a happy man. Why do some people make life so hard? It's what you make it. I chose to fill mine with good people,good beer,good food and good bikes. Pretty simple.

Had the fixed out for a few rides. Ran errands on it. Another simple pleasure.

There's a beautiful sunset out my window tonight.

Enjoy life. OGQ