Thread Drift

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

We FINALLY have had several beautiful sunny days in a row. We managed to paint our kitchen porch- which had been sanded and prepped SEVEN WEEKS ago before the rains started. :eek:

Trying to catch up now on my weeding and gardening and outdoor chores. It's beautiful outside! All that rain sure makes me appreciate lovely weather now.

[Veronica]

We cleaned out our garage this morning. We sold our old tandem to one of Thom's coworkers a couple of weeks ago. Today another one of the guys in his group bought Milo, my MB1. He's says he'll keep the name. :p It's a beautiful bike, but once I stressed out my knee, I couldn't get him set up right to not irritate it.

We've got lots of errands to do this afternoon - drop off hazardous waste, buy me some new running shoes, ship off some stuff, pick some rock for the front yard...

Busy day!


Veronica

[snapdragen]

I did a one hour mentor led training walk this morning. I was home, showered and ready to go by 10:00, I like that. Quick trips to Target (Tar-zhay!), CVS and Pet Food Express. Chloe is now well stocked with kibble and cookies. :cool:

[crazycanuck]

Ahh...:cool: I love singletrack..The trail I rode today reminded me a bit of Woodhill in Auckland..sweet singles :cool: It made coming home to work on my assignment a wee bit more pleasant.

[bmccasland]

I just found out that a good friend in Phoenix died suddenly yesterday. I am absolutely numb. There are things I need to do today, like go to the grocery store, but all I want to do is curl into the fetal position and ball my eyes out. Not that it will change matters, or bring Yehudah back.

[OakLeaf]

(((((((((Beth)))))))))

I'm so sorry about your friend.

[Selkie]

Oh, Beth, I'm so sorry about your friend. Unexpected deaths are very difficult (lost my mom that way). Maeve, Fiona and Margot send you big furry golden retriever hugs. While not as special as hugs from those three, I send you a hug too.

[Crankin]

Sorry, Beth. Many years ago, I woke up to the headline in the Sunday AZ Republic describing the brutal murder of one of my former colleagues. While no death is wanted, the sudden aspect of it was horrible. The last time I had seen him was about 2 months previously, when he came to my younger son's naming ceremony, and my final image of him is him holding my 2.5 year old on his lap during the service...
We took our canoe out for the first time this year... just a nice quiet paddle on a local pond, with a picnic lunch. Since it's not sunny out, there were no jet skiers on the pond, which was nice. But, when we were unloading our gear from the car, a bunch of guys on ATVs came barreling through the very hilly, rocky parking area, rode between our car and the next one, and went up a steep hill, like 3 times. I told them to "get a real bike."

[crazycanuck]

(((Beth))) I'm sorry to hear about your friend. Take care of yourself, you're a good woman.

[Crankin]

We have a heat advisory here, starting at 2 PM. Since that is the time I usually ride to the farmer's market in the next town, I decided to be good and I just came back from a walk. The heat index is supposed to be over 100 and it is really humid. There's a severe thunderstorm watch, too.
Although we did have a couple of 90 degree, Arizona like days in April, the heat here is always accompanied by humidity. Thankfully, it will be gone tomorrow.
I am going to drive to a closer farm stand and then kick back in the AC.

[SadieKate]

Ahh...:cool: I love singletrack..The trail I rode today reminded me a bit of Woodhill in Auckland..sweet singles :cool: Me two. :p

Yesterday, Bubba took me on a side route I'd never tried. Today I'm floating on air because I rode a really long half pipe with the trough getting deeper and deeper. The last 4 swoops were 10 ft deep with nearly vertical sides. :eek:

The ol' brain is finally not shouting at me and letting me really RIDE!

Had a small lie down in a manzanita bush (a la DirtDiva) but that was from going in too hot to handle the bank on the tree at the top rather my normal too slow and scared. Yippee!

[crazycanuck]

Our company arrives next weekend :eek:...At least we're going to visit a coolio place we've been meaning to venture to for a while.

http://www.menzies.wa.gov.au/tourism/things_to_see/lake_ballard.html

What is it with the weather forecasters? They say for sat-a chance of showers..What that really means is=we have no clue but we'll say showers because that's what the weather's been like lately...:rolleyes: :mad:

At least the trails have had a chance to dry out these past few days :D Can't wait to do some dirt time tomorrow aft..:)

[Pax]

Hello all. How's life been treating you gals??

[bmccasland]

Hello all. How's life been treating you gals??

Monday, my 15-yr old kitty, Herald, was diagnosed with uncontrolled diabetes. Today was day #2 of insulin shots. Fortunately he doesn't argue too much. I just wish he was feeling better, poor thing is still pretty wobbly.

But the weather is perfect for cycling - very NOT August weather. So why am I in the office? Waaaah :p

[Pax]

Beth - Bummer about your kitty, hope he feels okay otherwise.

We've had bizarre here as well, only a few beastly hot days and the rest of the time it's been perfect!

[katluvr]

End August/almost Sept in Florida and well it is hot, hot, hot. Still doing pre-dawn runs. Oh well come Nov. when the weather is perfect I'll be happy!

Even if it is hot out...I still think...why am I here, in the office? I could always be at the beach to deal with the heat!

[OakLeaf]

Beth, so sorry about your kitty, hope you and she adjust quickly to the insulin.

Pax, good to see you! How's everything?

Ragweed central here. DH and I are totally miserable. I just have to keep reminding myself that without shots and three medications, I'd be in bed for two to three weeks.

[Biciclista]

poor kitty - i hope he perks up with those shots!

Today as I was riding into the office, a forklift driver was lifting his load, the trash dumpster. He stopped because at the same instant he and I saw what looked like a baby bird. What is it? I yelled; he responded, looks like a baby duck!
he lifted it higher, so now I could see this brown bird, about the size of a robin, but he couldn't fly OR walk. So He picked up the dumpster and i grabbed the bird . It had mature or nearly mature feathering, and did not have a duck bill. I have no idea what it was.
It acted like its legs were broken. I put it in an area where it was safer, and the forklift driver thanked me. Poor little thing.

[Pax]

Oakleaf - Everything is great! I haven't been hanging out here because I can't ride my bike anymore and it bummed me out too much to read about others rides. I'm looking at a new bike that I may be able to ride so keep your fingers crossed for me please. :)

Mimi - Poor little bird!

[Duck on Wheels]

First there were a couple of minor technical issues after shipping RubySlipperz home from her ALC adventure, like the bent rear spindle. Then there were a couple weeks of parties, company, parties, company, more parties. Then we were off travelling again. And in between I've had some bad gut days. And then there was trying to meet a hike target for a prize at Plus3Networks (done it now, just gotta get it all registered). But yesterday I finally bike-commuted again, and impressed myself that some of the muscles and hill smarts I finally developed on the ALC (not before, mind you, but better late than never) are still there. Made it to campus yesterday without dropping below middle chain ring. Did the same again today. Today I also rode down to the engineering campus for a choir rehearsal (the staff welfare folks invited all willing to join a gigantic choir doing a re-worded Halleluja chorus to celebrate the uni's 99th anniversary -- great fun!) and biked home from there. UK-E will know the hill from that campus up to our house. I think it averages about 10% the first 3/4 mile, then a sharp turn into a 20% zig before the final 5% zag. It's years since I've biked up it. Last time I came that route (from the train with UK-E after our ride to H€ll) I cross-trained it. Now I thought I'd give it a shot. As I came up to the hairpin, I prepared to unclip and crosstrain, but still had 2 clicks to go down to granny gear and decided to keep at it. Made it up with just one click. :D Wheeee! Tomorrow I'm taking the car, tho'. :o I have lectures from 8am to 2pm with only the hourly 15-minute breaks, two of which I'll have to squoosh together so I can make it to the department lunch where they'll be serving cake in my honor and giving me my 60th birthday prezzy, belated since my birthday's in the summer when all are on vacation. I need to wear something nice, be at the office around 7am to copy up stuff for class, and not be sweaty at lunch. But Friday I'll bike again, and maybe take the long way home to try my new-found quad muscles on Fortuna Hill. :rolleyes:

[Fredwina]

Having an office 10 miles from a wildfire is tough on the eyes and Throat!
http://www.sgvtribune.com/ci_13204462

[Duck on Wheels]

Ouch! Wildfire that close? Have you got your evacuation kit packed? I remember living ready to evacuate one fire season in CA. We had boxes of photos and paintings stacked near the door + one suitcase each and the small instruments (violin, flute) -- i.e. some practical stuff and the kind of things that are irreplaceable no matter how well they're insured. That would also apply to my grandfather's Steinway concert grand, but there was no way we could get that into the car if the fire marshalls gave us evacuation orders. Luckily for us, the wind turned and the fire never crossed the hill behind us.

[Fredwina]

It's burning the other way(north). which is good
and it's about 20 miles from home. I remember the smoke wasn't that bad there.

[NbyNW]

Hi all,

Just wanted to pop in and introduce my new username (formerly jocelynlf). Have been thinking for some time that it wasn't the best idea to have a username resembling my real name.

Life has been keeping me busy, between taking care of a new puppydog, starting up my consulting business, and otherwise just a lot of normal stuff all happening at once.

The big news, and the inspiration for the new name, is that we are moving North. As in, Canada. DH got a fantastic job offer in Edmonton, and while it breaks our hearts to leave Seattle, we can't pass up the opportunity.

Target move time is end of September. Those of you in the Seattle area: I'm still planning to ride Cycle the Wave on Sept. 20. Hope to see you there!

[Biciclista]

ah, sorry you're leaving us, Yes, we'll see you at the WAVE. My son might be going to Edmonton too (PhD)

[Wahine]

NbyNW - Happy trails. You'll love Edmonton as a city. I lived there for 15 years. Fantastic bike trail system, low crime rate and very multicultural. I have been down here for 3 years now and things have changed but I'm happy to pass along info if you're looking for it. Remember to get a block heater installed in your car before winter hits.

[katluvr]

So for a gal from the south living in Florida...what is a block heater?;)

[Biciclista]

it's something you plug into the wall that keeps the engine block from freezing in the winter. Or just makes it easier to start, since OIL gets thick at low temperature too.

[katluvr]

Figured something like that. I really don't want to live somewhere where I have to worry about that! I don't even own an ice scraper!:D
Now, don't get me wrong...it is HOT still here. I do get weary this time of year. But I LOVE biking and wearing shorts most all "winter" long. Hey, I have often gone to the beach on X-mas eve!

[Biciclista]

ice scrapers are a lot cheaper than air conditioners.

[Pax]

ice scrapers are a lot cheaper than air conditioners.

Now that is funny! :p

[MM_QFC!]

Hi all,

Just wanted to pop in and introduce my new username (formerly jocelynlf). Have been thinking for some time that it wasn't the best idea to have a username resembling my real name.

Life has been keeping me busy, between taking care of a new puppydog, starting up my consulting business, and otherwise just a lot of normal stuff all happening at once.

The big news, and the inspiration for the new name, is that we are moving North. As in, Canada. DH got a fantastic job offer in Edmonton, and while it breaks our hearts to leave Seattle, we can't pass up the opportunity.

Target move time is end of September. Those of you in the Seattle area: I'm still planning to ride Cycle the Wave on Sept. 20. Hope to see you there!


Hey Jocelyn,
Thanks for sharing your news with us and, while I am happy for your DH and you, I'm also sorry that you're heading away from us. It'll be a great adventure and I'm sure that you'll happily settle into Edmonton.

Re: your target move date and the cycle the wave ride - would you hang out a bit after? I am leaving for my AIDS ride from NYC - DC next week and return home on the evening of the 19th.
So, while I won't be riding that day, I'd like to stop by (late morning/early afternoon/when?), maybe have an adult beverage with you and wish you lotsa tailwinds in person!
Mary

[KnottedYet]

We had boxes of photos and paintings stacked near the door + one suitcase each and the small instruments (violin, flute)

I think that flute might be sitting here in my living room!

[KnottedYet]

Jocelyn - this chickie is in the cold Canadadaanian north, and she rides year 'round regardless. http://girlsandbicycles.blogspot.com/ I love her blog.

We will miss you!

(ETA: The blogger - Sarah- is in Edmonton. She lists good bike shops on her blog, and other important bikey stuff!)

[salsabike]

Jocelyn, I'll miss you. Glad you're heading off to another adventure! And that I'll see you at the Wave.

[NbyNW]

Wahine - I'll keep you in mind as a resource!

MM_QFC: Yes, I'll hang out after the ride. A few of us are doing the Middle Sisters route, which starts rolling ~ 8am. It's 40 miles, but I'm not terribly familiar with the route so I have no idea how quickly it will go. I'm thinking a leisurely avg. 10-15 mph + snack break gets us to the finish by 1pm. Adult beverages should be excellent motivation!

[NbyNW]

Knot: thanks for the blog! I am SO coveting those euro-cruisers.

Salsa: see you soon!

[Trek420]

Ouch! Wildfire that close? Have you got your evacuation kit packed? I remember living ready to evacuate one fire season in CA. We had boxes of photos and paintings stacked near the door + one suitcase each and the small instruments (violin, flute) -- i.e. some practical stuff and the kind of things that are irreplaceable no matter how well they're insured. That would also apply to my grandfather's Steinway concert grand, but there was no way we could get that into the car if the fire marshalls gave us evacuation orders. Luckily for us, the wind turned and the fire never crossed the hill behind us.

Was that the year that the fire came so close to the Hagel's that someone unknown to them rumbled up their unpaved dusty rural drive in a pick up truck and helped evacuate all their art and paintings?

Maybe it was after he left they reflected "we just gave all our life's work to a stranger" :eek: :confused:

The stranger came back with everything after the fire died down. :p

Or ...... was that the fire when our mutual brother volunteered on the fire crew, was clearing brush and got a facefull of poison oak. He swelled up so badly he could not see and stayed in his room for days and days, Mom took care of him. When he finally came out of the room his eyes were so swollen shut I did not recognize him and screamed.

Then he stumbled back to his room, could not find the door and kicked it. We always had a dent on that door. :rolleyes:

Better check my quake supplies and yes, Knott the flute's at your place. Probably not the same flute though, the one you have is the better one I got sometime about in HS.

[Fredwina]

four hours to get home tonight:(
http://www.sgvtribune.com/ci_13210969
not only , but somebody thought it would "neato" to pull the emergency brake lever. wrong!

[crazycanuck]

We've made a step towards 21st century technology in our house...we have a set top box..I'll let Ian put it together...:o

I blew the vacuum cleaner the other day..:o

[Duck on Wheels]

Was that the year that the fire came so close to the Hagel's that someone unknown to them rumbled up their unpaved dusty rural drive in a pick up truck and helped evacuate all their art and paintings?

Maybe it was after he left they reflected "we just gave all our life's work to a stranger" :eek: :confused:

The stranger came back with everything after the fire died down. :p

Or ...... was that the fire when our mutual brother volunteered on the fire crew, was clearing brush and got a facefull of poison oak. He swelled up so badly he could not see and stayed in his room for days and days, Mom took care of him. When he finally came out of the room his eyes were so swollen shut I did not recognize him and screamed.

Then he stumbled back to his room, could not find the door and kicked it. We always had a dent on that door. :rolleyes:

Better check my quake supplies and yes, Knott the flute's at your place. Probably not the same flute though, the one you have is the better one I got sometime about in HS.

Yep. Same fire. Actually that was two simultaneous fires, one either side of Sonoma Valley. The more westerly one was on the east side of Mt. Taylor, so only a few miles from our place as the wind blows, but the wind was blowing first south, then north. Blew the fires back across their own tracks. The easternmost one first burned one side of the Millers' farm, then the other on its way back, burned all the empty chicken houses down but left their lovely home with nary a smudge. They'd sold the chickens but not cancelled the fire insurance yet, whereas we'd sold our chickens and PAID the local volunteer fire dept to come burn the houses down as training. Lucky Millers :cool:

But was the dent in the door from that poison oak round, or from the one he got on a summer job clearing trails at the back end of the lake where we took sailing lessons? I thought he washed with strong soap after work every day, but didn't think to wash his glasses, thus the poison oak all around his eyes.

Getting back to current events ... does the new contract cover what you needed to transfer to Seattle? Will I have to include Seattle stops on my flights from Norway to and from CA from now on?

[crazycanuck]

The Brisbane bike paths/jogging paths are just a bit safer today..http://www.news.com.au/story/0,27574,25993243-421,00.html

[Crankin]

Set top box????

[crazycanuck]

Supposedly in order to get HD TV you need a set top box. No clue how to explain it but apparently in order to watch tv in the near future...you need one??

[Blueberry]

Supposedly in order to get HD TV you need a set top box. No clue how to explain it but apparently in order to watch tv in the near future...you need one??

The explanation in the US is -

Most older, non-digital tv's have tuners that tuned to old tv stations. If you didn't have cable and wanted to get over the air tv, you had to buy a digital tuner. The antenna plugs into the tuner, which plugs into the tv. The tv sees the tuner as an input device (so I change channels on the tuner, not the tv now).

CA

[MM_QFC!]

...MM_QFC: Yes, I'll hang out after the ride. A few of us are doing the Middle Sisters route, which starts rolling ~ 8am. It's 40 miles, but I'm not terribly familiar with the route so I have no idea how quickly it will go. I'm thinking a leisurely avg. 10-15 mph + snack break gets us to the finish by 1pm. Adult beverages should be excellent motivation!

OK, great...I'll drag my jet-lagged body over there by Noon-ish...and look for you et al...will that work?
Happy trails to me and happy packing to you!
Mary

[NbyNW]

OK, great...I'll drag my jet-lagged body over there by Noon-ish...and look for you et al...will that work?
Happy trails to me and happy packing to you!
Mary

Yes, I'm sure everyone riding would love to see you as well!

Hope the AIDS ride is successful!

[Crankin]

OK, got it. Just different terminology. We have cable, so the switch over didn't affect us... but we have 2 TVs that are not digital; so we bought the boxes for those 2, because Comcast is going all digital in 2010. Well, except now, you won't be able to get the over the air HD broadcasts in HD with these boxes, once the change occurs. We unplugged the box on our TV in the bedroom (that we actually do watch) for now, since the change hasn't happened yet, and my DH is going to try to figure out a way to get the digital signal and the HD on a TV that doesn't have a cable box or card.

[KnottedYet]

I never got around to getting one of those boxes, so I haven't watched TV since the switch. Never really watched much TV anyway. The box costs as much as my TV did. Still works fine for watching the DVD player, but my computer has a bigger screen...

So, my TV is kind of neglected. Guess I need to take it to the recycler. I dunno. Can't see myself buying a new TV nor buying a converter box. What do people do with these archaic TVs?

[bmccasland]

What do people do with these archaic TVs?

Make planters? :p

[crazycanuck]

We have an old tv & are not buying a newbie flashy type any time soon. DOn't need a newbie tv. With an old tv, can you not give it to a charity or something?

We don't need a new tv. Another mtn bike that fits (patiently waiting for next year..) & tuition are first.

SEt top box was cheaper than the new set of nicks we just purchased.

[KnottedYet]

With an old tv, can you not give it to a charity or something?


Unfortunately, in the US these old TVs no longer work; they are analog and all signals in the US switched to digital. I don't think any charities would be interested in them. There's probably a glut on the market anyway.

I like the idea of making a planter out of it! :p

[Trek420]

Hopefully soon you'll have access to mine which is bigger, nicer and already digital compatible.

Meanwhile check earth911.org for a list of locations that e-cycle.

Some e-cycle drives benefit charities. :)

It's too d@mn hot down here today.

[crazycanuck]

I thought all bogans would be asleep at 5am..apparently not today :rolleyes: On my ride this morning, the sole car that passed me had a dude in it swear at me :confused: I thought it was quite funny. Nothing else to do at 5am???

I had a great zippy ride this morning :)

[DebW]

I've been apartment hunting and found 3 good choices. Do I want the nice duplex with 1.5 baths, a dining room, and some garage space? Or the 1-floor duplex with small living space but huge basement (with outdoor-only access)? Or the rustic house on the old farm (with a dirt-floor basement) from which I could probably ski 6 miles to work? The farm house doesn't have much room for bike repair unless I work in the musty basement, but the setting is wonderful.

[redrhodie]

I've been apartment hunting and found 3 good choices. Do I want the nice duplex with 1.5 baths, a dining room, and some garage space? Or the 1-floor duplex with small living space but huge basement (with outdoor-only access)? Or the rustic house on the old farm (with a dirt-floor basement) from which I could probably ski 6 miles to work? The farm house doesn't have much room for bike repair unless I work in the musty basement, but the setting is wonderful.

I think you'd be really happy to have the garage space if you could set up a shop in it. Even though it sounds romantic, I'm guessing the farmhouse will be freezing cold and not very comfortable unless it's been insulated and has a good wood stove. Also, I'd be really reluctant to store anything in that farmhouse basement after my New England basement experiences. Your tools will rust in the blink of an eye.

[Crankin]

I'd think you would want a happy medium; the farmhouse might not be ah, energy efficient. If you want the space to work, then get the smaller duplex with the basement. I guess it depends how much stuff you have to put inside the house, and if the neighborhoods/towns are comparable in terms of commuting by car and bike, and other amenities, like how close to coffee houses, etc.

[katluvr]

Almost 20 days since the last post here....I guess we need to get conversations going!
So how is everyone's weather?
We are still reaching 90 in the afternoon. Makes for a HOT evening. This is the time of year I get tired of the heat. Our mornings are only in the mid 70's--but very muggy. I won't be complaining in a few months...but just a wee bit hot.
Expected to be up to 90 all this weekend. Planning on biking a bit north of my house...usually about 5 degree's cooler so maybe it will be a cool 70 when we start.
Anyone else w/ Indian Summer?

[Biciclista]

yes, it's been gorgeous here; the best weather ever.

[OakLeaf]

It's been beautiful all summer, a bit too dry but not a bad drought, and now it's going to rain and turn cooler just in time for my tough long ride this weekend. :rolleyes:

[Pax]

We had a beautiful cool summer, now we're having a slightly rainy fall...not too bad at all. :)

[mtbdarby]

We're in the high 60's today with a cold front coming. High for Monday is supposed to be 53! Guess fall is here in WI. The leaves are turning so it's beautiful but dry.

For a special treat I get to meet Trigress on Sunday! She's here from Norway for a wedding and we're planning on meeting to go hiking if the weather holds (they're talking rain now). I'm excited!

[Pax]

Dar - That sounds like such fun!

[Crankin]

Our September weather has been awesome, I guess making up for the rain in June and July. We have only had one or two days of rain, with another forecast for Sunday. A few days have been warmer than usual, but not too humid, but mostly, even the hot days have been crisp and clear. One day it was 41 in the morning and 78 in the afternoon. Reminds me of AZ. Seriously, September is my favorite month. I hate riding in the hot weather, especially humid hot weather.
The high is going to be 60 tomorrow and I am quite happy.
Let's keep this thread going. I miss the random conversations.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Weather is great here, pleasantly cool and breezy, getting chilly at night.

I just made a big batch of kohlrabi coleslaw. Also tuna salad.

A neighbor down the block just offered me her active bee hive which at in her farm 30 min away, and we are hatching a plan to transport it here to my place in Oct. :eek: :D

Not sure if this link will work, but it's a little video clip of DH and I playing at the local farmer's market two weeks ago: music clip (http://mountaindulcimer.ning.com/video/brianlisa-hellupcoalholler). It was just at twilight so the light isn't too good. (Tell me if that link does not work)

[crazycanuck]

SUNSHINE!!!! Two days of pure sunshine!!!! WWAAAAAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOEY!!! We've not had this for quite a while..our winter was rain rain rain..Western Australia has some dam levels at 51% though!!! :)

Finally this may mean summer is just about here :D

Waooooooooooheeooooooohooooooooooooo

[tulip]

We've needed rain for a while. Yesterday afternoon I finally broke down and put the sprinkler on my new perennial border. Then it rained all night and most of the day! Tomorrow's neighborhood cleanup is canceled because there's an 80% chance of rain. Better to wait and have more participants.

[DebW]

I've been missing one of my favorite pairs of PI bike shorts for about 5 months. Today I removed the drawer that holds my bike shorts from the chest, and there were my missing shorts behind the drawer! I'm happy.

My other great joy in the last week was successfully finding the pipe between my septic tank and the distributor box/leach field after 4 mornings of digging. I'd made a trench 3 feet wide and 32 inches deep when I found it. That success saved me several thousand dollars and having a backhoe dig up the yard to find it. My system even passed the Title V inspection so we can now sell the house.

And today I got the key to my new apartment, a 2-bedroom in a duplex house only 1.5 miles from my office and near the bike path. I should be able to commute by bike all winter, though skiing could work sometimes too.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Congrats Deb on your new apt! I know the good feeling. :)

It took me a while to learn about 'drawer creep' too - it only happens when your bureau drawer gets JAMMED with biking shorts and tights. one pair will decide to 'talk a walk' and mosey on down behind the drawer looking for a little solitude. ;) The symptom is when the drawer doesn't seem to want to close all the way even though nothing is popping up and getting in the way.

[kelownagirl]

Loved your video Lisa. :) I had to join your Ning to listen but the link worked fine.


Weather is great here, pleasantly cool and breezy, getting chilly at night.

I just made a big batch of kohlrabi coleslaw. Also tuna salad.

A neighbor down the block just offered me her active bee hive which at in her farm 30 min away, and we are hatching a plan to transport it here to my place in Oct. :eek: :D

Not sure if this link will work, but it's a little video clip of DH and I playing at the local farmer's market two weeks ago: music clip (http://mountaindulcimer.ning.com/video/brianlisa-hellupcoalholler). It was just at twilight so the light isn't too good. (Tell me if that link does not work)

[Crankin]

Good work, Deb. It will be cool to live near the bike path. My son has used it to ride out here.
I have a sleeveless Craft base layer missing. I just bought it last fall at the Terry 50% off sale and I am mad. I bought 3, because I wear them constantly for about 7 months of the year. Hoping it will show up stuck somewhere. There is hope, since my cleaning lady found one of my DH's gloves that had gone missing. It was pretty new. Of course, I bought him a new pair for a birthday present and then it showed up.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Loved your video Lisa. :) I had to join your Ning to listen but the link worked fine.

Oops, I didn't realize you'd need to join to see it...but thanks for joining anyway! :D

Here is a page where you can see it without joining anything:
http://harmonias.com/our-music/
You do have to let it load at least halfway though, or else it keeps pausing to buffer. :rolleyes: Once it's all loaded though it doesn't pause while playing.

[mtbdarby]

Very nice Lisa! And congrats on the bee hive. Reminds me of the book The Secret Lives of Bees. :p

Congrats on the new place Deb - and finding the shorts!

Well, I met Trigress today:D We had a nice long hike and chat. She is wonderful and quite the tiny gal. We had a bit of a challange finding the park and the trails were not marked well so we got in a little longer hike, lol. The day was beautiful though and so was the company. She took pix and will post them when she can. Yeah! I met another amazing TE gal!

[Crankin]

Well, it's been a few days since this thread has been active.
What's new?
I have been buying cycling clothes for my son! So, it's a vicarious thrill. My DH already gave him a thermal jacket, some regular and long fingered gloves, a few head covers. So far, he is still commuting, even at temps in the low 40s in the AM. But, he definitely wants to get a road/touring bike and "train" some next spring. I bought him 2 pairs of shorts, which I scored for $19.00 each, at STP. Then I researched like crazy, and got him a pair of thermal tights, unpadded for $80, reduced from $160.00 at Backcountry.com outlet. Today, EMS had their club day, so I got him a regular cycling wind jacket which is really light and reflective, for 20% off.
I think I'd better stop. My DH ordered him a pannier, so I am going to put it all in the pannier and give it to him next Friday, on his birthday.

[Zen]

I sure wish I could watch Ken Burns National Park show on a movie screen.

[Pax]

I sure wish I could watch Ken Burns National Park show on a movie screen.

Agreed, the location shots are stunning.

[Fredwina]

2008 Kia Rondo
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_vuerRrNlUQI/SseuOQHTL5I/AAAAAAAADWo/--scn87Wjk0/s640/100_1173.jpg
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_vuerRrNlUQI/SseuPU39cCI/AAAAAAAADWs/H7hwSbRpKTo/s640/100_1174.jpg
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_vuerRrNlUQI/SseuQQzcmII/AAAAAAAADWw/tau57lg46qY/s640/100_1175.jpg
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_vuerRrNlUQI/SseuRWmoerI/AAAAAAAADW0/rA4m9WfHtF4/s640/100_1176.jpg
The Kia Pet (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFHCfwF87_o) or Rhonda ("http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mZ0ApTA-y4" ) the Rondo?

[crazycanuck]

I thought this was funny http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10601196

Now Ian wants to name our future doggie "High Voltage" :rolleyes: (He's a high voltage design dude..)

[Crankin]

My son is applying for a job at Ciclismo Classico as a trip consultant!
Here's hoping he gets it and I can get a discount on a trip :).
I mean, he's fluent in Italian, rides, and has business experience. I guess it wouldn't look good to have mom come in a threaten them to hire him.

[kelownagirl]

somebody post something - I like to know how you're all doing... :)

[Zen]

I wined and dined myself tonight.
Big bowl of steamed mussels with bread and broth
glass of sangria
fried ice cream!

I'm a good date.

[kelownagirl]

crap, wish you'd invited me. Sounds delish!

I'm curious about the fried ice cream???

[Zen]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fried_ice_cream

[Pax]

I slept for three hours and woke up, it's 1:20am here and I'm wide awake...weird.

[crazycanuck]

We are inching towards making the next step in our doggie adoption process. Today we ventured to the doggie refuge(after the doggie beach) & talked to the trainers about a couple that would be compatible with Yukon. The doggie meet went well & Yukon wasn't fussed when she met Ozzie. (http://www.dogshome.org.au/medium-dogs/ he's further down the page)

We've put ozzie on hold & will give the folks a call tomorrow about our decision. I'm now scouting out http://www.agilityclubwa.com/ in case mr ozzie comes to our home! (Might even be a thought for yukon.)

It's 37C today & we're all inside keeping cool..On our way home from the doggie refuge our back ute tray was way too hot for doggie to be in so she enjoyed some air con :)

[OakLeaf]

What a coincidence, it's 37°F here right now. :p It turned cold all of a sudden and none of us are used to it.

Ozzie's a good looking boy! Let us know what you decide.

Yesterday we joined about 30 pilgrims for the last mile of their 70-mile walk between two ancient earthworks. It was very spiritual - it must've been incredible for those who made the whole journey. You could see it on their faces, a mixture of awe, serenity, joy, sadness that it was ending.

I'm starting to get nervous about my half marathon tomorrow. Don't know why, it's not like I'm competing for a win or anything. :rolleyes: It's just so much bigger than any race I've ever run before. 15,000 runners in the combined 26.2/13.1 start, my biggest so far is a field of 800 in a 5K. We're staying overnight tonight even though it's not that far away, just one less thing to have to worry about in the morning. Wondering what to pack for breakfast. Not sure what to wear. Planning to snag some daifuku mochi (what a wonderful excuse to eat dessert for breakfast! :D) but not sure those will be enough.

[Zen]

My mother had a dog named Ozzie.
Companion to Wizard.
Get it? Wizard and Oz?
OK.

[solobiker]

I went on mtn bike ride today. I have not been on my bike for quite a while for various reasons. Beautiful day, plenty of sun and temps in the 70. I think I want to take a nap now. I think DH and I will stay home tomorrow to do yard and house work. If we do we will use our smoker and make some ribs. Yummmm.:D

[Crankin]

I am taking a weekend class this weekend. Well, it's the first weekend; the last one is in a month. The time is going fast, but it's hard being in a room with no windows. I ran yesterday (class started at 5 on Fri. night), but today I got home at 5 PM and although I had all intentions of riding, I just couldn't do it. It was 44 and cloudy, raw, and windy. It would have taken me at least a half hour to change into cold weather gear, get my bike ready, check the lights, etc. I took a 2.5 mile walk in my street clothes and running shoes. At least it's uphill. My quads are killing from running yesterday.
I relaxed with some good rose wine and dinner. Ready for bed and one more day of class.

[solobiker]

Good Luck Oakleaf

[OakLeaf]

Good Luck Oakleaf
Thank you! :)

[snapdragen]

I need to convince myself to go to bed early. We're meeting at 5:45 am, starting time is 7. Let's hope my feet survive!;)

[maillotpois]

Good luck Snap!!!

[Zen]

http://i206.photobucket.com/albums/bb14/zencentury/HotChocolate.jpg

[crazycanuck]

We have dedided yes on mr ozzie :)

Snap & Oak-good luck!

[NbyNW]

Congrats on Ozzie! He looks like a sweetie.

I started taking Gordy to an intro agility class last week. He seems to enjoy it!

[solobiker]

Why are weekends so short??

[OakLeaf]

Zen, I'm totally allergic to milk but I'll make an exception for that hot cocoa!

CC, have fun with Ozzie!

I'm supposed to teach aerobics/strength tomorrow. Trying to figure out how to fit that into my half marathon recovery program. :rolleyes:

[Zen]

Zen, I'm totally allergic to milk but I'll make an exception for that hot cocoa!


That's the real thing, no powdered garbage here.
Maybe I could make you one with soy milk and a non-dairy topping:rolleyes:

[kelownagirl]

Any news on the half marathon?


What a coincidence, it's 37°F here right now. :p It turned cold all of a sudden and none of us are used to it.

Ozzie's a good looking boy! Let us know what you decide.

Yesterday we joined about 30 pilgrims for the last mile of their 70-mile walk between two ancient earthworks. It was very spiritual - it must've been incredible for those who made the whole journey. You could see it on their faces, a mixture of awe, serenity, joy, sadness that it was ending.

I'm starting to get nervous about my half marathon tomorrow. Don't know why, it's not like I'm competing for a win or anything. :rolleyes: It's just so much bigger than any race I've ever run before. 15,000 runners in the combined 26.2/13.1 start, my biggest so far is a field of 800 in a 5K. We're staying overnight tonight even though it's not that far away, just one less thing to have to worry about in the morning. Wondering what to pack for breakfast. Not sure what to wear. Planning to snag some daifuku mochi (what a wonderful excuse to eat dessert for breakfast! :D) but not sure those will be enough.

[OakLeaf]

2:00:41, darnitIcantbelieveImissedasub2hrfinishby42seconds.

Working on a race report. It'll go up in the Running section in a bit here. :) Susan and Indigoiis already have their race reports posted.

[solobiker]

Good for you, much better then I could do. I was wondering how you guys were doing as I was doing some yard work, laundry and cleaning my house. :D

[solobiker]

I wish I had a remote control so I could speed up my week to Friday. This week is going to be very busy and long. UGH...:o

[shootingstar]

Kelownagirl, doing some cycling this year?

[Pax]

I did a workout yesterday for the first time in a long time, it was excellent! I'd forgotten how good of a stress reliever exercise can be!

[maillotpois]

I did a workout yesterday for the first time in a long time, it was excellent! I'd forgotten how good of a stress reliever exercise can be!

But how's the moto? ;)

[Pax]

But how's the moto? ;)

Gorgeous! But sadly only has 259 miles on the clock. :o If I don't ride it more next summer it's going up for sale, it's too great a bike to languish in the garage.

So...how's the Duc????

[maillotpois]

Great! I put about 3000 miles on it on our trip to Seattle this summer. I am almost ready for my 6000 miles service! It is so much fun and so light and easy to ride. I will never be speedy but I am getting more smooth and comfortable on it.

After that long trip, I'm now eyeing the Moto Guzzi Norge for touring.... Of course I am going to be self employed starting beginning of the year and will have NO money but I can dream! :cool:

[Pax]

Great! I put about 3000 miles on it on our trip to Seattle this summer. I am almost ready for my 6000 miles service! It is so much fun and so light and easy to ride. I will never be speedy but I am getting more smooth and comfortable on it.

After that long trip, I'm now eyeing the Moto Guzzi Norge for touring.... Of course I am going to be self employed starting beginning of the year and will have NO money but I can dream! :cool:

My SO rides a Guzzi, she LOVES it! Since we got scooters last year the bikes sit a lot though. In a small town it's so much easier to hop on the scooters for running errands than to deal with the heavier (and limited storage space) bikes.

[Biciclista]

Have we drifted to gasoline powered bicycles on this thread ? (sigh)
Today was my 100th bicycle commute of the year. That's human powered.

[maillotpois]

:confused: This thread has drifted to places far less bicycle oriented in the past.

I agree on the scooters - you don't have to get all leathered up. I went into the scooter store this weekend, in fact. I think when DD gets her license she'll probably end up w/a scooter to get to school.

[OakLeaf]

I agree on the scooters - you don't have to get all leathered up.

ATGATT gal! (Although I gather that "all the gear" is more in California than it is in the rest of the USA. Here, wearing virgin knee sliders on the street is frowned on. ;))

[maillotpois]

I don't have knee sliders, but definitely moto leather w/armor and all the rest every time I get on the Duc. ATGATT for sure. But for a scooter (Vespa, etc.) that you just use for groceries around town (and town really being a town), it's hard to imagine wearing all that.... when I had my Vespa I'd wear capris... :D

[Blueberry]

Of course I am going to be self employed starting beginning of the year and will have NO money but I can dream! :cool:

Congratulations!! This is exciting!

[OakLeaf]

Nothing wrong with textile, as long as it has good armor. It's single use, unlike leather which is repairable, is the main thing.

[Pax]

I agree on the scooters - you don't have to get all leathered up. I went into the scooter store this weekend, in fact. I think when DD gets her license she'll probably end up w/a scooter to get to school.

We each have Buddy scooters, I've got an International (150cc) and she's got a regular (125cc), they are more fun than a barrel of monkeys! And I'm rarely ATGATT.

[maillotpois]

Congratulations!! This is exciting!

Thanks! :) And scary. We shall see. (It's actually been a hellish process - I had to give notice TWICE before ex-partner believed me. I'm just barely out of hiding.)

On the moto clothes - yeah I also have textile, which is what I used for our long trip - it was SO hot then and the idea of leather was just wrong. But everything's got armor.

I love the Buddy scooters. The guy who owns my gym has one in the lobby. Pax which Guzzi does your SO have?

[Pax]

She rides a lowered Breva 750, it fits her (all 5'1" of her) like a glove.

[maillotpois]

She rides a lowered Breva 750, it fits her (all 5'1" of her) like a glove.

Love the look of that - remarkably similar to my Duc (which also fits shorter people well). I have no idea how the Norge rides. I just fell in love with the look and after 2500 miles on the somewhat cramped 696, it felt like a great alternative. Some day I will get a touring bike, and the multistrada is too tall for me, as is DH's Ulysses.

I should stop daydreaming bikes and get back to work. :rolleyes:

[solobiker]

I actually slept last night. I can't even remember the last time I slep that well. It has probably been about 6-8 months.

[crazycanuck]

Vrooooommm..Just a thought for the motorbike chickas :)

It's sunnnyyyy & boooteful here :)

After uni today I get to meet our crazy new doggie...hopefully we can keep him busy enough..

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Painting my new empty bee hives today. :)

[Pax]

Painting my new empty bee hives today. :)

Cool, are they always painted white?

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Cool, are they always painted white?

No, they can be painted just about any color....except I do know that bees don't like black or royal blue.
Hives are often painted white because A)If they are sold pre-painted, white is a 'safe', cheap, generic choice....and B) many large commercial apiaries keep their hives out in the fields in full sun and white helps the bees cool their hive in the South in the summer, where they are often placed during the pollinating season of crops.
My hives will be in dappled sun in the northeast here, so they can really be any colors and don't need to be white at all. I actually picked out 3 pretty colors to mix-n-match in the two stacks of hive boxes. :)

[Pax]

...I actually picked out 3 pretty colors to mix-n-match in the two stacks of hive boxes. :)

Please post some pictures when you're done, I'd love to see your bees new home!

[TsPoet]

No, they can be painted just about any color....except I do know that bees don't like black or royal blue.

My hives will be in dappled sun in the northeast here, so they can really be any colors and don't need to be white at all. I actually picked out 3 pretty colors to mix-n-match in the two stacks of hive boxes. :)

That is so neat. I wonder if the black/blue thing is because it's dark, rather than the color. I may have to do some curious googling.
I'd love to see pictures.

[Zen]

Paint them with black and yellow horizontal stripes. They like that ;)

[Pax]

Paint them with black and yellow horizontal stripes. They like that ;)

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb217/Deepliquid/Smilies/snork.gif

[crazycanuck]

AGGHGHGHG...FFHRORFGHGHGHGHGH..:mad: :mad:

A cycling friend of ours was hit by a car last night & is in hospital-he'll recover but still annoying.

Road riding is becoming less & less appealing :mad: YAY for mtn biking!!! ;)

[OakLeaf]

Oh man. :(:(:mad::mad: Did they catch the driver? Do you know whether they'll be charged?

Hope your friend heals up quick.

[crazycanuck]

I only have second hand info but the driver didn't flee the scene. Apparently she didn't see him-sun setting???

[Pax]

...Road riding is becoming less & less appealing :mad:

This is where I've been lately in my thinking, on the few days I've been able to commute this summer/fall I've had a near miss almost every day. :mad:

So sorry to hear about your friend.

[NbyNW]

CC, so sorry to hear about your friend! Hope he gets out of the hospital soon.

I am terrified of driving when the sun is low for that very reason. The glare can really be blinding. Polarized sunglasses help, but only so much.

If I am riding during that time of day, I doubly assume that drivers may have trouble seeing me.

[Biciclista]

I guess that's why it's so safe here at sunset. No sun. bwahahahaha

CC, sorry to hear about your friend. Ride safely.

[lph]

Good healing to your friend, cc!

I went shopping today! An unusual enough occurrence (i.e. not food and necessity shopping) to deserve its own post. I got:
- a mid-thigh-length softshell coat, courtesy of mil and fil's "birthday money"
- a wool neck gaiter, junior-size so it won't slide down all the time, ditto
- a pair of Icebug winter running/walking shoes, with small studs underneath. Poison green...:rolleyes:
- a light knitted dress! I tried on 4 that looked terrible, almost gave up, then 1 that was ok and 1 sleeveless one that was really neat. Office wear.
- a couple of spare blinkies
- a couple of really large screwgate climbing carabiners, cos I want to start climbing with a cordelette on multipitches
- 3 packets of white tea flavoured with forest berries, that I've been hunting everywhere for since my workplace moved. It tastes wonderful and white tea is apparently one of the healthiest drinks ever.

And when I got home I posed for my dh wearing or carrying all of the above :D

I didn't have with me the incredibly expensive Goretex gaiters I got talked into buying earlier this summer but am planning to return, or the gift card I was given from work a few weeks ago, so I didn't go to the big sports store I was planning on to get:
- a down filled inflatable camping mat, Exped Down 9
- insulated shoe covers (PI Barrier ?)

So there's even more shopping in my future.

[OakLeaf]

I wasted a beautiful afternoon mowing the grass. Hopefully the last time this year.

I liked it better when I was afraid of the tractor and DH did all the mowing. :rolleyes:

[Crankin]

It was nice! I went on a group ride for the first time since the week before Labor Day. I am mad at myself for missing the ones in September, because they are usually in beautiful coastal locations that are too busy in the summer. I keep thinking I only have one and a half years left of the freedom to do these Wednesday rides, because I have to work full time for 2 years to get my license, once I graduate. I am hoping to find a place where I can work with clients at night on Wednesdays, because this group is so unique; social, 13-15 mph average on hilly rides, but they go faster on the flats. Usually a choice of short/long rides and a group that goes a bit faster than above, which I join at times. Interesting people and good lunch stops.
My priorities are screwed up, I guess!

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Got my car inspected this morning. Came home and did some 'day job' work. Finished the third coat of paint of my new bee hives- yikes, it took two days to paint all the various outer surfaces with three coats of latex. Thoroughly watered my vegetable garden, since it is still producing plenty of stuff and was really dry. Now heating up leftover roast chicken for dinner with our own garden salad.

[DebW]

I've been spending all my free time modifying my apartment to be more bike-friendly. My landlady give me permission to change the hinge direction of the basement door, which will allow much easier access for my bikes. Took much of 2 days for myself and a friend to flip the door, move the hinges, fit the door (lots of planing), and rehang the door. That's all done and the mounting and clearance are good. But then we discovered that the warp of the door in it's new orientation doesn't match the shape of the concrete stoop, so I've been chipping away at the concrete with a cold chissel. It's a slow process but almost there. There's also a top-to-bottom warp of the door that's making the center bulge away from the frame such that the deadbolt will not fall entirely within the door frame. That may cause me to chissel out some wood from the top of the door frame. I also mounted a new latch on the on the gate to the yard, because the original latch bolted only from the inside, so when I took my bike out of the basement and onto the driveway, I'd have to leave the bike, latch the gate, and run through the house. Ah, life will be so much easier now. I've been enjoying the Minuteman Bike Path less than a mile from my apartment.

[Zen]

My priorities are screwed up, I guess!

I don't think so :)
That sounds like a great group.

[Fredwina]

Got my invite from AARP today:eek:

[Crankin]

Yea, it takes them awhile to give up, if you don't join. They finally stopped harassing me, but my DH, who is 3 years younger, still gets the pitch in the mail.
Something about that group gives me the creeps. I just don't want to be in any group that's main premise is that "we are old." I know I'm in my 50's, but let's not let that define me.

[OakLeaf]

Ha ha, I got mine about 3 weeks ago.

So where are we having the big TE half-century party? Sounds like a lot of us are hitting that mark this fall.

I'm still on my recovery week after completing my final thing-to-do-before-I-turn-50. (Okay, okay, just creating a Facebook account isn't really "having a page," I have to actually put something on it... still have a bit of time to do that before my birthday...)

Now, how soon to do my first marathon? Decisions, decisions...

[Zen]

I just don't want to be in any group that's main premise is that "we are old."

AARP is a strong political force. You might need that force someday.

[Crankin]

I know that intellectually, but I don't want to admit to it.
In my mind, I am still that 15 year old flower child hanging out on the Boston Common.

[Biciclista]

yeah AARP used their political clout a few years back to make Medicare a nightmare with a donut in the middle.
Not to mention they have their hand in the pockets of the pharmaceutical monster.

[OakLeaf]

AARP is a strong political force. You might need that force someday.

Meh. I'll continue to support political forces who advocate for the poor and the disabled regardless of age. Even though they don't have the political power of the AARP.

[Zen]

I just don't want to be in any group that's main premise is that "we are old."

I thought that's what TE was for :D


yeah AARP used their political clout a few years back to make Medicare a nightmare with a donut in the middle.
Not to mention they have their hand in the pockets of the pharmaceutical monster.
A nightmare with a donut in the middle?
Now all I can think about is Homer Simpson.

AARP isn't going away, now just take your discount card.

[redrhodie]

Mmmmm, donuts.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Here are the two new hives painted:
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_9fPBEJTqGzw/SuDSmGLYU5I/AAAAAAAACiw/tlPceQzVPag/s400/painted-hives-Oct09.jpg

Now they are stacked in the basement, waiting for bees.

[chickwhorips]

I figured I'd "drift" in and say hi. :)

Hope everyone is doing good.

[Biciclista]

Here are the two new hives painted:
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_9fPBEJTqGzw/SuDSmGLYU5I/AAAAAAAACiw/tlPceQzVPag/s400/painted-hives-Oct09.jpg

Now they are stacked in the basement, waiting for bees.

very nice! you should have your bike in that photo :)

[OakLeaf]

Cute hives!

[maillotpois]

Mmmmm, donuts.


:p:p:p:p:p

[Pax]

Pretty hives, your bees sure have some upscale digs!

[Zen]

I'm pooped. I hiked today. Not sure how far but at least two miles were on the road shoulder. Maybe 6 total. Uphill,downhill. Boulder scrambling.
Tarred.
The name of one of the trails is Old Misery.
Apppropriate.

[solobiker]

I got to go for a run in the snow today!:D

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I just finished our town's film fest today, watching 12 films in 4 days.
No more pizza and chocolate for a while now.... :eek:

[crazycanuck]

Blech..There was a high % of humidity today..75% humidity at the moment. At least it's not hot out..only 22C.

[Crankin]

Driving to work today, everything looked like a picture post card. The foliage is at peak color and at one spot, there was a light mist/fog hanging over a pond and a farm. I ride by this spot very frequently and I think I am getting sort of an eh? attitude to all of the beauty that surrounds me. To me, at times, it's just another boring ride on one of my regular routes. That is until I go riding somewhere else and think, "Why did I drive somewhere to ride, when everything right around me is better?" I forget that hundreds of people come out to ride where I live because of this, as well as the "regular" tourists.
When I moved back here almost 20 years ago, I swore I would never become non-appreciative of my natural surroundings, after living in the desert for so long. I have to keep reminding myself of this.

[Biciclista]

yeah, we have the humidity thing going, it's a torrential downpour. lovely stuff. no bike commute for me today!

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

...I think I am getting sort of an eh? attitude to all of the beauty that surrounds me....
When I moved back here almost 20 years ago, I swore I would never become non-appreciative of my natural surroundings, after living in the desert for so long. I have to keep reminding myself of this.

I need to remind myself not to take the good things in my life for granted every single day. We're only human, but it's far too easy to become jaded and blind to the privileges in our lives. I think about how most of the human beings on earth live as compared to my life, and about just how damned lucky I am.
Last night I saw the movie Precious at our film festival, and let me tell you it really hit me.

[Biciclista]

maybe it's because i am a watercolor artist, there is no way I can pass through the natural beauty around me without being entranced, That is, unless it's in the dark. :cool:
Right now though, i am looking out the window at the trees about 800 feet from my window and i can't see ANY color, just dark tree shapes, that's how bad the rainfall is.
not good biking weather.

[kelownagirl]

It's the same here Mimi, heavy rain, low clouds. 4C, 39F. Brrrr... And snowing like crazy on the Coquihalla Highway between Kelowna and Vancouver.


maybe it's because i am a watercolor artist, there is no way I can pass through the natural beauty around me without being entranced, That is, unless it's in the dark. :cool:
Right now though, i am looking out the window at the trees about 800 feet from my window and i can't see ANY color, just dark tree shapes, that's how bad the rainfall is.
not good biking weather.

[Zen]

I found a Canadian nickel while I was hiking yesterday. It was so shiny and lightweight I thought it was some kind of slug or toy money :o



Last night I saw the movie Precious at our film festival, and let me tell you it really hit me.

I've been hearing a lot about that film. I might actually pay the big money and see that at a theatre. I bet you didn't even recognize Mariah Carey.

If you want to read the book, it's called Push (http://www.amazon.com/Push-Sapphire/dp/0679446265)

[crazycanuck]

Two years ago today i was in the ER after my bike whooops :o. I'm a happy camper to be back doing dirt time :)
Weeeeeeharrrrr

I have to admit i'm having a giggle fit reading some of the old Thread drift posts.

I wonder where many of the old folks have gone?

[kelownagirl]

Two years ago today i was in the ER after my bike whooops :o. I'm a happy camper to be back doing dirt time :)
Weeeeeeharrrrr

I have to admit i'm having a giggle fit reading some of the old Thread drift posts.

I wonder where many of the old folks have gone?

Two years - really? Wow I can't believe it's been that long already! So glad you are back to your old self again tho. :)

[solobiker]

Two years - really? Wow I can't believe it's been that long already! So glad you are back to your old self again tho. :)

I can't either. Wow where did the time go? I remember seeing the picture you posted and reading about what happened. Keep on riding!

[solobiker]

One of my favorite sounds is when my dog starts to snore while she is sleeping. She is so darn cute.

[OakLeaf]

Phew, wow CC, it doesn't seem like that long to us but it must seem like eons to you. Anyway +1 glad you're back!

[Zen]

Check out these turtle sounds (http://www.tortoise.org/tortcall.html)
Who knew?

[salsabike]

Check out these turtle sounds (http://www.tortoise.org/tortcall.html)
Who knew?

That is COOL, Zen. Thanks.

[OakLeaf]

That is cool. :D

Sometimes we can go through 30 or 40 web recordings trying to identify a sound we hear at home. It took us quite a while to track down the juvenile barred owls' begging calls (http://home.centurytel.net/bobowlcalls/Barred_Owl_calls.htm#juveniles) we were hearing this spring.

It was really great to hear them from two different nests, because owls have been slowest to come back after the West Nile virus wiped out all the raptors in the area several years ago. :)

[kelownagirl]

Kelownagirl, doing some cycling this year?

I put on some k's this year. Season's more or less over for me now tho. Focussing on running this winter. I did three tris and need to work on my run...

[solobiker]

Well..between Wednesday and Thursday we got over 2 feet of snow and today it is 60 and most of the snow is gone. Gosh I love CO.:D

[Tuckervill]

That's good to hear. I'm flying to Denver on Tuesday to attend a funeral in Woodland Park on Wednesday. I don't want to drive in the snow.

Karen

[cylegoddess]

On regretsy.com, I saw a lady who knits little jumpers for baby chicks! So cute!:)

[redrhodie]

I went out for a quick ride this evening. Rounding Brenton Pt, a Cadillac Escalade pulled in front of me and turned right. I had enough time to react, but it was a little ballsy of them. The license plate was "ZEN". :D

[Zen]

Did you get the plate number? I want to issue a cease and desist order.
An Escalade! The horror :eek:!
...not to mention the irony of impatience:(

[redrhodie]

Just "ZEN". It was a vanity plate. Maybe they have a sense of humor.

I wonder if "EPIC" is already taken :D? That would be good on my car. I've got 160 something thousand miles.

[Zen]

Just "ZEN"
Oh, right. duh :o

[Zen]

FAFSA is filled out, tax returns copied and ready to submit to financial aid office, just registered for classes...things are starting to gel :cool:

[salsabike]

FAFSA is filled out, tax returns copied and ready to submit to financial aid office, just registered for classes...things are starting to gel :cool:

Go Zen!

[crazycanuck]

Zen, what are you going to study??

[OakLeaf]

Yay Zen! Exciting!

spending a summer three years ago studying for Group Fitness Instructor made me realize I just don't have what it takes to go back to school at my age...

[Crankin]

Ha, I decided that getting a second Master's was easier than passing that ACE personal trainer exam. Just threw away all of the study materials I never used. I spent more time studying for the group exercise instructor exam back in the day, than I did studying for my master's comps!
What are you going to study, Zen?
CC, I love the song Baker St. that you have quoted. It reminds me of how I felt about Phoenix. Especially the "it's got so many people, but it's got no soul."

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Baker Street.....one of my favorite songs.

[Zen]

spending a summer three years ago studying for Group Fitness Instructor made me realize I just don't have what it takes to go back to school at my age...

Pfft! You're two years younger than me!

I'm going for a degree in Digital Media Design.
Cake for some of you, I know. But I don't know enough about my digital SLR, I don't know what the different types of files are in comparison to one another and I'd like to find a decent job!

I'll probably have to write one paper (survey of art).

this will be my fourth associates degree:o

[NbyNW]

Yay, Zen! Hope you enjoy the new coursework.

We got home to our temporary accommodations tonight to find an eviction notice on our door! Apparently the property manager had not paid the owners of the unit. We got in touch with the owners right away and quickly determined that the property manager is in outer space somewhere, and we should deal with each other directly, and let DH's company's relo people deal with the property manager.

Whew! So glad the owners are patient and reasonable people. We are 10 days (knock on wood) from moving into our new place and I was not looking forward to moving into new temporary accommodations again again again. Would have been stressful on the puppydog, too.

[Zen]

I hate moving. I only want to do it one more time before I die.
Unless I win the lottery.

[OakLeaf]

Zen, did you sell your house?

If I won the lottery you'd still have a hard time convincing me to move.



I didn't mean my age per se... it's more that it's been half my life since I've had any formal education. I don't know if I could take the shock to my system. Sounds like you've kept up with those skills. :) Have fun with it!

[Zen]

Zen, did you sell your house?



:( No
But tthe tax credit has been extended and there's also been a modification for non first-time homebuyers.

Google voice mail transcripts reads osteoporosis as OscarFurrow. Took me a few to figure that one out.

[crazycanuck]

Who knew that marking a trail for an event could be so much fun but tiring. Our 12hr's comin up soon :)

Why is it that at the moment I just want to go mtn biking rather than do any roadie stuff? I know my km's are pretty low for the year but the trails are so inviting and peaceful etc etc. *sigh*

This is what happens when you leave your job for uni & only work part time. I've been able to go out mtn biking whenever I like :o

[Trek420]

this will be my fourth associates degree:o

Can you put them together into a Masters? :D Go, Zen.

[tulip]

Any chance that that modification of the tax credit for non-firsttime homebuyers would be retroactive to houses purchased in 2008?? I have not read up on it at all, but man, that would be sweet!

[Pax]

Any chance that that modification of the tax credit for non-firsttime homebuyers would be retroactive to houses purchased in 2008?? I have not read up on it at all, but man, that would be sweet!

Wouldn't it though!!

[bmccasland]

The bane of my recent life, requiring over-time hours to meet a deadline I didn't agree to - is FINISHED. 6 cases of the document + 150 CDs were delivered to my office yesterday. 1000+ "notice of availability" letters were stuffed and mailed. We are keeping lumberjacks employed somewhere.

YAY!!!!

Document in question is an EIS (environmental impact statement) - on the beneficial use of mud dredged from federally maintained waterways. http://www.lca.gov in case anyone for some silly reason is interested. Public notice starts Nov 20 (so the link to on the web site won't be there until sometime friday).

I get my life back, maybe my bike will remember me. :D:D:D

[lph]

Yay Beth! I know how you feel. Way to go :D

[Zen]

We are keeping lumberjacks employed somewhere.

YAY!!!!


Planting trees?

[NbyNW]

Congrats! That's no small amount of work. Have a great time getting reacquainted with your bike!

[Zen]

to see if it's dead.

my left butt hurts and has for a while. I can't decide if it's from single leg presses or the old sciatica acting up.

On an entirely unrelated note, I just put my turkey breast in the oven.
Nine pounds.
I'll jazz up some Stove Top and then play Meals on Wheels for my bro and sister. They're not infirm or anything but we didn't have a regular meal and everybody likes leftover turkey and stuffing.

[redrhodie]

From your butt to my quads. I did some exercises with weights that someone posted on another thread of Lance doing, and now I'm paying the piper. I can hardly walk, I feel like I'm 100, but I will be able to climb Ventoux with ease. :p

We had a veggie Thanksgiving.

[Zen]

We had a veggie Thanksgiving.

As long as there's gravy...:)

[OakLeaf]

Local grass-fed cheeses with homemade sesame crackers, homegrown butternut squash ravioli, farmer's market broccoli, pumpkin pie with hand whipped cream, and she wants gravy too? :p

[Zen]

Stove Top and gravy. I grew up on White Trash cooking (http://www.amazon.com/White-Cooking-Jargon-Ernest-Mickler/dp/0898151899).

[kelownagirl]

Stove Top and gravy. I grew up on White Trash cooking (http://www.amazon.com/White-Cooking-Jargon-Ernest-Mickler/dp/0898151899).


I decided to celebrate US Thanksgiving this year. Since it was a school night and life was hectic, I bought all processed foods - precooked turkey breast in gravy, instant mashed potatoes, stove top stuffing, frozen corn, and canned cranberry sauce. It was actually a heck of a lot better than I expected...:rolleyes:

[redrhodie]

We had lentil and butternut squash pot pie, savory bread pudding with shitake mushrooms, creamed pearl onions and peas, candied yams, cranberry sauce, roasted brussel sprouts, and mashed potatoes. Desserts were apple crisp and pumpkin bread. I think this will be our menu every Thanksgiving. Some of the dishes, like the onions and peas, are traditional for us. Finding the right main dish (the pot pie) was only discovered last year, the recipe from a vegetarian friend of mine. There was no gravy, but everything is pretty rich already. BF used over a quart of heavy cream somewhere...and there wasn't any whipped cream for dessert. :confused:

[Crankin]

I ate way too much this weekend and it wasn't really Thanksgiving food. Wednesday I went out to lunch. Thursday included too many appetizers, though I did not pile too much on my plate for the actual dinner. Friday we went into Boston, to the MFA and when we got home, I was exhausted, so we ordered Indian food. I ate all of it and that made me feel gross. Last night we went out for Thai food with friends; while it was light and full of vegetables, I feel over stuffed, despite the fact I've been exercising, too.
Going out for a longer ride later, which I hope, will cure this feeling.
My son just left here to go to his first group ride... I just could not feel overjoyed with going out when it's 38 degrees when I don't have to! He picked up his road bike before heading to the ride start, which is near here. Both of the leaders are people we know really well, but for some reason, I am nervous for him. I know he can keep up, but I guess you never stop worrying about your kids, even when they are 27.

[Blueberry]

We had lentil and butternut squash pot pie, savory bread pudding with shitake mushrooms, creamed pearl onions and peas, candied yams, cranberry sauce, roasted brussel sprouts, and mashed potatoes. Desserts were apple crisp and pumpkin bread. I think this will be our menu every Thanksgiving. Some of the dishes, like the onions and peas, are traditional for us. Finding the right main dish (the pot pie) was only discovered last year, the recipe from a vegetarian friend of mine. There was no gravy, but everything is pretty rich already. BF used over a quart of heavy cream somewhere...and there wasn't any whipped cream for dessert. :confused:

Wow! Would you share the lentil and butternut squash pot pie recipe? Sounds heavenly (as does the bread pudding...).

CA

[redrhodie]

This is pretty close to the recipe we followed for the pot pie. By we, I really mean my BF :o. I had nothing to do with the cooking. I did, however, set a pretty table.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Lentil-and-Golden-Squash-Pot-Pie-269564

This is a lot like his bread pudding, but he used only crimini and shitake mushrooms.

http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Wild-Mushroom-Bread-Pudding-4531

[Tuckervill]

Stove Top and gravy. I grew up on White Trash cooking (http://www.amazon.com/White-Cooking-Jargon-Ernest-Mickler/dp/0898151899).

I have that cookbook.

Karen

[Zen]

So do I. It's worth it just for the photos and stories.

[Crankin]

My son ended up doing 55 miles, including some of the most difficult hills in the area.
Oh, how I wish I started cycling at a younger age...

[Tuckervill]

That cookbook actually demystified iced tea for me. lol.

Karen

[Zen]

Demystified?
How so?
Don't you consider yourself a Southerner?
Iced tea should be like mother's milk:p

[Tuckervill]

Yeah, I grew up in Arkansas, but my mother was from Chicago, and never made iced tea. So, while my aunts and cousins always had it around, and I often saw it steeping on the stove, I was never "taught" how it's done. It's one of those things that just "is"--seems obvious and every-day to them, but not to the uninitiated.

Karen

[kelownagirl]

Thought you guys might get a kick out of this pic. The dangers of cycling....

http://kelownabikes.wordpress.com/

[DebW]

Thought you guys might get a kick out of this pic. The dangers of cycling....

http://kelownabikes.wordpress.com/

Did the gaters put up that sign because they were hungry?

[Pax]

Thought you guys might get a kick out of this pic. The dangers of cycling....

http://kelownabikes.wordpress.com/

I've been on roads like that in FL on my motorcycle...it's creepy in the extreme!!! :eek:

[Zen]

They can move really fast for short distances, right?

[Pax]

They can move really fast for short distances, right?

Yup, alligators have a huge burst of speed and can run up to 25mph for short distances...creepy!! Crocs are a little slower...still creepy.

[OakLeaf]

The little ones can jump like 3 feet into the air, too. :eek:

[Pax]

The little ones can jump like 3 feet into the air, too. :eek:

Why is it that everything that wants to kill you can either run fast or jump huge distances??? *shudder*

[lph]

The little ones can jump like 3 feet into the air, too. :eek:

:eek: AAGH! I didn't need to know that :eek:

[OakLeaf]

I get to see my sister Sunday!!! :D:D:D

We were chatting on Facebook and it turns out we're both traveling this weekend.... to the same vicinity.

I'm jazzed. Even though the relationship we have is what we've been able to build as adults, at a distance of hundreds of miles, after we'd each begun to process our childhood(s), she is totally my hero. I don't get to see her nearly often enough, so I'm super excited.

[katluvr]

Cool Oak! That is a great.
I get to see my sis this weekend. She is coming to my X-mas party! Very excited.
We were MUCH closer as kids...I still feel/remember that. As adults we are MUCH more different. But I always want to see her and think the same bond will reoccur.

Safe travels and have fun!

BTW...I saw from anther post that you "winter" elsewhere. You often speak of what you know about flat FL...are you a "snowbird"?

[Tuckervill]

I wish I had a sister. Thought I never knew what I was missing, but really, I don't have anyone to call just to share my thoughts with, like a best friend but more indepth knowledge of the family dynamics, and I wish I did. For some reason today especially.

Karen

[OakLeaf]

are you a "snowbird"?

Yep.

I HATE moving. But now that we've been doing it 5 years, I have attachments "down south" too, and would have a hard time giving it up.

I know, everyone should have such problems. :rolleyes:

[crazycanuck]

I've recieved the a-ok from the house finance minister (i'm the prime minister of our house) to purchase a new mtn bike. I have very few options & the Trek Fuel 8.9 WSD looks amazing but at $8000 (that includes shipping from america) i think it's a wee bit too expensive... The Rocky Mountain bike, it can stay in Canada with the components it has. Speaking to an experienced, well respected person in our mtb community at thier awesome bike shop today i've come home with not many choices...

I am able to try out only one XS bike (since i know someone with one!) & that's a Yeti...

It's a big big BUMMER being small & no one stocks bikes my size..Poo. Big Poo.

Poo

[NbyNW]

It's a big big BUMMER being small & no one stocks bikes my size..Poo.

Yes, it is! I hope you eventually find something you're happy with.

[crazycanuck]

This is interesting..I think i'll pass though...

http://www.nokojeans.com/
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8392608.stm

Booooteful day in paradise today :D just that tad bit hot at 37C. Doggies n I are in the shade til later when we venture to the doggie beach :)

Btw...anyone know how to vaccuum thier doggie without frightening them? Poor Ozzie's shedding HEAPS of hair & although he loves being swept, vacuuming him doesn't quite go.

Ideas?

[Tuckervill]

A really long hose, with the vac in another room? Would probably diminish the power of the vac, but it's not that hard to get dog hair off.

Karen

[NbyNW]

I don't vacuum my dog. He has short fur, and I think it would freak him out.

Right now I don't vacuum anything, because somehow the %$#@#! movers forgot to put my vacuum cleaner on the truck. Now I have to wait for my property manager to ship it up here. It's a really nice ($$$!) one, with a HEPA filter. Otherwise I'd just forget it and buy a new one here.

[Biciclista]

CC have you tried a Rubba scrubba?
http://www.flylady.net/pages/FlyShop_rubba_scrubba.asp

I'll buy you one if you like. I hear they are really good for shedding dogs. My cats like ours..

[Tuckervill]

My mother gave me one of those, and it didn't work.

Karen

[Biciclista]

it didn't work, meaning? it works on my cats and on my bedspread.

[Tuckervill]

I don't use it on the cats, but it doesn't work on my furniture for some reason. :-/ I have never needed to use it on the bedspread (I use quilts, and generally cat hair doesn't stick to that).

Karen

[IFjane]

(I use quilts, and generally cat hair doesn't stick to that).

Karen

Karen - either you have different quilts or different cats than I do! lol~ I have not yet found a surface that the hair from my cats does NOT stick to, including the quilts.

Mimi - I just ordered two rubba scrubbas, one for me and one for my daughter. Thanks for the recommendation! ;)

[Tuckervill]

Hm, weird. My big Siberian-type sleeps on my bed every day, and doesn't leave anything, except the clumps that would have fallen out anyway. (He does leave streaks of hair on one of my tablecloths.) I just pick the clumps up, not at all like dog hair.

I guess I have special quilts. lol.

Karen

[Fredwina]

I had a Tim Tam, must hide the remaining , or i'll be going across the Street to Albertson's to buy some more

[Biciclista]

they sell those in california and poor CC is going to mail some to me?

I must investigate!

[crazycanuck]

Mimi...can you buy mint slices & jaffas though...:cool:

[Biciclista]

never heard of Mint slices OR Jaffa! :eek:

[crazycanuck]

Ian's vacuuming Ozzie now :) Treats help!

Mimi-you'll just have to wait then won't you :cool:

[Fredwina]

mimi,
The company that makes tim tam is owned by Campbell's soup. There sold under the "Pepperidge Farm" label.
CC
I think we only get the chocolate flavor. for now. And they are imported, rather than baked here

[Xrayted]

Hey, it's been a while. We've been doing great but very busy with life. Kit is doing wonderful in college (Mimi, she finally gets math and almost likes it now! :p) and working part time at the hospital. I've had tons of OT for months (like 3-4 double shifts a week) but now we've hired more people so it's finally getting better. Kit finally got some financial aide so today she got a nice big refund for this past term we already paid for. The smile on her face lights up the room. Especially since it's her birthday. What a nice present.

I'm taking her out for breakfast at our favorite diner, a snowy day at the Timberline Lodge on Mt Hood then a soak in a hot tub, a couple's massage and dinner afterwards at McMenamins Edgefield. She's really been missing snow and the woods lately and has really needed a good massage for a while now. I hope she has a good day. :)

What do y'all do to keep the cats away from the spinning wheel when you're on the trainer? We've adopted yet another kitty, found him by the dumpster one night. That in itself is a story and a half. I named him Bodhi. Ito'san and him are good buddies. Tiny Harley Quinn smacks him down when he gets wild. :D Anyway, he feels the need to be a part of everything I do. :rolleyes: I'm worried for when I put the roadbike on the trainer in the next few weeks. All ideas are welcome.

I've tried to catch up the best I can on this thread. Many things have happened to us but it's just too much to talk about all in one shot. The main thing is, we are loving life and enjoying each other's company more and more as time goes on. I feel very lucky. I wish the same for the rest of you. I'll check back in more often and say hi. See y'all later and be safe. :D

[crazycanuck]

Holy Sheep Batman!!! X!!! How's it goin chickadee???? I feel bad sending you messages via your dear on facebook :o

*waves frantically heloooooooooooo* :) :D

Take care kiddo!

[Selkie]

It's nice to see you back, X, and to hear the latest on you and Kit. Glad all is going well w/both of you.

Kit is very lucky to have such a wonderful partner---you certainly made sure she had a great b'day! :):):):):):)

[Pax]

X!!!! So nice to "see" you! Sounds like life it treating you both well, congrats!

[redrhodie]

I'm almost done holiday shopping! Still have to figure out something for DBF. I'm thinking maybe a saxophone, but I know nothing about buying one.