Thread Drift

[kelownagirl]

Nanci - Do you guys have Cold FX in the states? I have managed to cut short the last two colds that began to develop by taking it at the first sign of the sniffles. Not sure if it was the Cold FX or luck, but it might be worth a try. Of course wine is always good too....

[maillotpois]

MP. did you say you were running on the Dipsea course?

Nanci


Um. I think "running" actually is not the right term at this point. But yes, I am on the Dipsea course. The second level of the Dipsea steps starts just a short way from my house. So I get 2 levels of the steps, and then I am on the trail part. I've decided a good goal for now is an out and back to Muir Woods (maybe 1/4 of the whole length of the course), and then work on increasing the distance. I really don't want to get injured, but at my "fast hiking, sometimes running" pace I should be okay.

I was thinking of you when I was on the trail part. You are one who should do the Dipsea with your whole Wickham thing. I have a friend who's very competitive at the Dipsea and she also does the double and the quad Dipseas.

There are about five trail run events (each of them having 5 - 10ks all the way up to 50k) before the end of the year. I think maybe I will choose a 10 - 20k as a goal. The trail events tend to be more like fast hiking than the street events.

[maillotpois]

(See if she notices :-)



OMG!!! I noticed!! :D

[Nanci]

I just can't HEP myself!!!!!!!!

I think we have some Cold Eze or something with zinc laying around.

I just can't admit I'm actually getting one! It's so weird.

[Nanci]

She's probably sleeping.

[salsabike]

Was that the picture that started the whole thing? If so, I can see why.

Lise, it'll come. Right around the time you are sure it won't (or, actually, a little past that time, so the gods can make sure you suffer as much as they think is fitting for humans. Which seems to be a fair amount). Anyway, whether it's Mr. P or not, have fun tonight! That band sounds good.

As a sort of parting gift for the weekend, check out my favorite band below. Yes, that IS the salsa in salsabike.

http://www.spanishharlemorchestra.net/

[Nanci]

No- there is an even wattlier picture on his website. Don't get me wrong- he has excellent quads.

I am lonely for Mexico now, for some reason!

But there has been a reprieve from having to cook. I am just going to make ciabatta bake- chicken and cheese.

And sit out on the patio with Dill, torts, and a new cycling book.

[Lise]

(See if she notices :-)

LIKE I WOULDN'T NOTICE! You have tooo much time on your hands...what's that I hear? Some forlorn animal in the wilds of central Florida? Whimpering? Nanci! Go find it! Hurry! Hurry! :p

If I had the techno capabilities, I'd post lots of gorgeous pix of PR for comparison purposes, but I'll just refer y'all to his website: http://www.peterreid.com/fotos.htm So life on the Ironman circuit isn't the best for the skin? Like we didn't know that? He's still welcome to park his boots under my bed anytime.

I am SO MAD at myself. :mad: :mad: :mad: I had this sweet deal for my Lasik, no interest on the total if I paid it off within a certain time. I just FORGOT to move the balance to another card on time, and got assessed a $516 finance charge! :mad: Of course I called them...of course they reminded me of the agreement I signed...I'm sure "I forgot" is something they hear a lot of. ARGH! I hate it when I screw up a financial thing like that.

[maillotpois]

I actually thought it was a good picture. Wattle and all.

[Lise]

I actually thought it was a good picture. Wattle and all.
See? He's really a doll. I can handle a little looseness in the neck when he's so darned strong everywhere else.

It took me so long to notice because I was trying to get my finances under control. ARGH. I cannot believe I screwed up that finance charge. I am just going to have to let it go. Treat it like a car accident or something. argh.

Salsa, thanks for the encouragement. I get pretty discouraged sometimes. KG, what a great story. I am so happy for you.

[maillotpois]

Yeah, Lise, that does suck big time. Been there. Sometimes I just blow it.

The worst recent one was when DH tried to raise our mortgage auto payment amount last year, so we'd be paying more than minimum, but he ended up deleting 2 pending payments. So we weren't paying the mortgage, and somehow had all this extra cash (most of which we spent) - and then started getting these letters about foreclosure!! :eek:

[Nanci]

That sucks, Lise. If I was Peter Reid, I'd ride my bike to your house and give you a big hug :-) Or if I was me and I could make him do that, I would.

I don't really have too much time on my hands, I just neglect my responsibilities.

Hey, I threw out my BF Mark Ruffalo for critisism- (Did I mention I dumped Nicolas Cage for him? And I'd been with Nick forever). But sometimes, and I am not sure why, I kind of get the hots for Edward Norton. Which disturbs me, because he moderately resembles a friend of mine's husband.

Do you want to know what I am going to do tonight? (After taking the pets out for a while). Watch even MORE of the third season of Reno 911. I got it in the mail yesterday, and have already watched 5 episodes.

[Lise]

That sucks, Lise. If I was Peter Reid, I'd ride my bike to your house and give you a big hug :-) Or if I was me and I could make him do that, I would.

I don't really have too much time on my hands, I just neglect my responsibilities.

Hey, I threw out my BF Mark Ruffalo for critisism- (Did I mention I dumped Nicolas Cage for him? And I'd been with Nick forever). But sometimes, and I am not sure why, I kind of get the hots for Edward Norton. Which disturbs me, because he moderately resembles a friend of mine's husband.

You guys are sweethearts. Just the thought of Nanci calling Peter makes me smile:

"Hello, is this Peter? Peter Reid? The Kona one? Oh, good. Yeah, I'm a big fan...oh, I'm lying. But I need a favor. You haven't hung up yet? You must be bored. Oh, the favor. Yeah. Would you mind riding down to Chicago and hugging my friend, Lise? She is pissed off and discouraged. You'd really cheer her up. She might even make it worth your while." :p Thanks, Nanc, yer a pal for even thinking of it.

Nanci, I like Mark Ruffalo! I even said so, right here in TD! He is very cute, scruffy or not! Nic Cage was a big favorite of mine for years, but his movies generally suck. It's made it hard to keep loving him. I do think that Mr. Big (what's his name? Something Noth?) is rather strange looking. It's his jaw.

Good grief, MP, foreclosure. That word makes my blood run cold. The best was when my ex decided NOT to pay off all the debt as promised, AND stopped making payments on the BMW I'd cosigned on. So I gave up my paid off car and took over payments on the BMW. That car cost me about an additional $1,000 every time it needed repairs, and it needed a lot of them, because the ex didn't maintain it. I called that car "The Resentmobile". I finally just traded it in and got a Malibu. I love my little American made vehicle.

One time I got extra money back from the IRS. I was terrified, thinking I'd screwed up and they'd be coming after me to get their money back, etc. Well, I had screwed up. I'd under-calculated my return. Decent of them to figure it out, correct it, and send me the $$$!

I'm waiting to get a chunk of change back from the hospital. I submitted expenses for that conference in Utah. It will be nice to deposit that check.

[maillotpois]

Great phone dialogue. I can imagine it!!

The Resentmobile! Excellent. Yeah, at least our was dumb instead of deliberate. But it still was pretty bad!! Oh well.

[Lise]

The postal gods smile on me!

1. That check I've been waiting 5 weeks for? Arrived. AND I got everything I asked for. My boss had said I might get back $800 of the $943 I requested--but I got it all. Phew.

2. The Kona 2005 DVD arrived! I'll watch it this weekend, Nanci, and then send it on to you, along with the two you loaned me.

What a rollercoaster it can be inside my poor little noggin. :rolleyes: L.

[Nanci]

I never said I liked Mr. Big!!! I just like BG's friend that looks like him!!

[salsabike]

Here, by the way, is MY idea of good-lookin'--Paolo Maldini, captain of AC Milan. Whoof.

http://www.forzamaldini.net/main.htm

[Nanci]

Today was my mom's birthday (dead 12 years) and my old wedding anniversary (divorced 8 years after being married for 10 and lived together for four before that).

[crazycanuck]

Hey kids,

It's SATURDAY...yyeeeeieipepepeppeep...

I've never seen the johnny depp film you're talking about but think i might have to rent it. I'm not a big johnny fan though...Edward Norton oh dear...can you see the drool on my keyboard...

Edward Norton, jean reno, Gary oldman(triple drool)anthony hopkins, tem morrison, gerard depardieu....just to name a few...

Fishdr-St john's dear....It must get annoying for tourists too.......We have St john's newfoundland & St John New Brunswick.., Fort St john etc...

I don't need anything from NFLD..but will you have any time for a tiki tour?? If you do, Cape Spear is worth the short drive, quidi vidi, signal hill (good bike ride up i think) & the start of the trans canada...(ok this might be only cool for me as i've been to both ends...)..Will you have saturday free??? The only reason i ask is if you can rent a car, go for a long drive as NFLD's a really pretty province.

I must ask, are you working on helping bringing back the cod stocks when you're there??? I'm sure a few fishermen who've left would love you...

Well kids, i'm off for the mystery km bike ride...Once i get past 50km i might not stop for a while...(secretly i want to try the yummy lara bars & need a special reason)

have a funky day

c

[DrBee]

(See if she notices :-)

OK - I know what pic you're talking about - where is it???

CC - I miss-typed. I knew it was St. John's, I was trying to type the message quickly 'cause I was at work. I will have most of Tuesday free, but I'll be swamped Saturday - that's when I'm giving my talk. It's a conference on Fish Biology - mostly physiology and some fish health (which is why I'm going). I work on catfish, so no luck for the cod with me.

Lise - I hope your date is going well!

MP - Way to go on the running/fast hiking!!!

Wish me luck in the AM ladies - I'm installing the new tube. Yeesh I'm nervous after the last round. I didn't get to it today - worked late and the we went to buy school supplies. How weird is it that FishJr is old enough to go to school. Freaky!

Nanci - I've been fighting off a cold/sore throat thing for over a week now. I took a few days off from riding/running thinking it would help. No such luck. So I'm riding tomorrow anyway!

Later!

Have great rides/runs tomorrow!

[crazycanuck]

Back again..

Fishdr-is fishjr starting kindergarten in the fall? Is she excited about starting school?? SUrely there can't be tons one must purchase for Kindy...!!!

Nanci, have you tried boiling water & honey for your cold?? I can't say it works....

While on the topic of cold medicine-Ian had the bot for a week or two & decided to get him something as his cough was driving he & I nuts..I picked up some day/night flu medicine which oddly enough had pseudoeffedrine in it. Now in some areas of NZ one can't purchase this without ID & they put you on a police register etc. At the shop here in Perth i wasn't even asked for ID!

I don't know what you guys call it in the US but P as it's known as here is a major epidemic & shops in Ian's hometown plus other don't/won't stock anything with pseudoeffedrine in it.


I managed 70km's on my ride today..I am going to have to play with my pedals &shoes as the ball of my foot upwards just gets hot & sore which drives me nuts.

The Cocoa Mole Lara bara was mmmmmmmmmmmmmm...i'm still drooling over it...(i can see i'll need a lara bar dealer in the future...or get my dad to bring me a couple of boxes down with him).

The cliff blocks-perhaps next time i won't put them all in my pocket..man are they ever sticky. I threw my shorts in the laundry as i can't get the pocket open!

Back later kids...

c

[Selkie]

Mr. Big's head is too big or something. Maybe it's his hair? He seemed a bit too Metrosexual for my tastes (uses more beauty products than I do, probably, haha). I like the guy who played Aidan better. Good looking but not as "fussy" as Mr. Big.

[Nanci]

Hmmm, I didn't like Aiden very much at the beginning. I especially didn't like the dancer.

I love Saturdays! I just got in form catching 23 slugs for Fagalo. He is happily munching. Then I picked fresh greens for the torts. Man that Buttercup is an aggravating little non-compliant so and so! I took them out last night. Placed each in a carefully chosen patch of edibles. Go in to put the ciabatta bake in the oven- come out- there she is, ten feet away, trying to get under the barbecue cover. Koko, is of course, where I left him, grazing. So I put her in the turkey roaster to soak and drink. I worry about her getting enough water, since she pees every time I pick her up. But no, she will only pace. So I put her back in a different patch of grazing. Then Koko goes into the turkey roaster, and proceeds to tank up on water. He's so cute- he puts his whole head under! They eventually are put to bed. Night before last, Koko got to watch some TV and get cuddled. He likes that. Buttercup is just so prissy. I try to bring her out of her shell by talking to her and touching her gently and making sure she is supported when I carry her around- I guess she's a _little_ more relaxed. She doesn't pull her legs in and hide her head any more.

For the bike picnic, we're supposed to bring something to share. I wanted to bring a cool dessert that my friend Teresa from work always makes, with pistachio pudding and whip cream and a baked crust of pecans, but then I thought, hey, I'll give it a try- instead of asking her for the recipe, maybe I can pay her to make it for me! And she was _glad to!_ She loves baking. So now I have this gorgeous dessert in a disposable pan and she even bought a knife to cut it at the dollar store! What a great friend. Oh, plus she traded call with me today so I could even go.

She has some HS friend in Ohio, who she went to visit, who was raving aobut starting cycling. I think T may be getting interested! She's my back up person, to come rescue me if need be on my brevets. I've wanted to get her riding, but she has a hurt (from work) back, and hasn't ridden a bike in a million years. Still, her HS aged daughter has a bike...I'm hoping!

There is nothing in the house for breakfast, that I am in the mood for. So I guess I will eat a Mojo on the bike. I'll make up for it at lunch!

BF is _seriously_ looking for a Harley now. Now that the 2007's are out, he wants a 2006. (There was some exhaust system change he doesn't like- some EPA thing). I've never owned a bike. I'm a little nervous. That's probably hospital-related. (yeah, the poster in my old ER read "Why do you think we call them Donorcycles?") Oh well, I'm an organ donor. I'll wear a helmet.

Oooh, we had a rather yucky trauma at work the other day, a girl got tangled up in a carwash hose and sucked into the brushes...She'll live, though.

I wonder how Mr. P and Lise did last night.

[crazycanuck]

Nanci,

I sure hope the little lady's ok...If you cross paths again, let her know we're thinking of her.
Owie!

Btw...I must ask you, when you do a 1000km ride, do you guys bike florida end to end???

May i also ask what your nearest town/city is??

I hope lise's night went well!

OMG...The wallabies beat the springbok 49-0!!!!! What happened to the saffies??? They should have done a bit better...Ian's saffie workmates are quite shocked!!!


Ciao for now kids

c

[DrBee]

Good morning! I successfully changed my tire this morning! I woke up with a headache and thought it would go away. As soon as I started riding- piercing headache. I only rode a couple of miles and back to the house I went. Apparently today is not a good day for me to ride. One aleve later and still have the headache. This is not fun. Had my first Mojo bar this morning - they are yummy!

CC - FishJr is starting 4K (kindergarten/preK for 4 yr olds). She begged us to let her go to school. Here 4K is all day - they will learn spanish, work on reading/writing, that sort of thing. You'd be suprised how much stuff they need - markers, glue, etc. Here (I don't know about elsewhere), school supplies also consist of paper towels and kleenex and antibacterial soap. I felt like I was groceries. Weird. But oh well.

I hope Lise's date went well!

[maillotpois]

Nanci - a carwash?? OMG. If that weren't potentially sad it would be funny.

Fish - yay on the big K for Fishjr. Once they start kindergarten, everything just flies by. We're starting 5th grade in the fall. It seems like not long ago we were starting the big K!

Costco run today. May see "Pirates". Em saw it already with her baby sitter and her girl gang. I'd like to see it.

May run later. The running thing at least has more flexibility/spontenaety than cycling. It's like - Hmm., I have a spare 45 minutes or an hour or whatever. Let's just put these shoes on and go. Whereas with riding, if I didn't have a solid 3 hours to get in a 50 - 60 miler, it really wasn't worth the effort. Though I did have a good 2 hour climbing ride from my house. Didn't do that one enough! ;) And the running thing works with the kid because I can leave her home for an hour or so no problem if DH isn't around. For a 3 hour bike ride that didn't feel so good.

[DrBee]

MP - I know what you mean about running. I can wake up later and go out for 30-45 minutes and run whereas a 45 minute bike ride would not really feel worth it. I remember when 45 minutes seemed like a long ride.

I get a little nervous when I think of FishJr going to school all day. The thing that gets me the most is lunchtime. I just can't imagine her sitting there eating lunch with her friends. It will be great for her on so many levels. She's so independent and fairly mature for her age, but she's my little girl, ya know? I'm going to be a mess on the first day of school! Yikes!

[DrBee]

Where is Lise??? Sleeping in, maybe ;)

[Trek420]

I suppose. MWBR when she wakes up.

[DrBee]

Still no Lise? Hmmmmm... MWBR I suppose I suppose

[maillotpois]

"You gonna eat your tots?"

[Nanci]

I am back from the picnic. I killed a squirrel- it ran out in front of my truck so fast I couldn't do anything. Then 100 yards later a turkey tried the same thing, but at least it was walking, and huge, so I had time to stop...I feel bad.

The ride was only 30 miles. We got passed by a funeral procession.

I went swimming twice! They should let you use a mask and fins- then triathlons would really be fun!

I tried two recumbents- both Bachettas. I am not pining away for one like I thought I would be. They felt rickety. I felt like I couldn't use my quads- like I didn't have any power. The stopping/starting/turning was exciting! Good, so cross that off my wish list.

I saw a huge flock of storks on the way home, and a cow pile under a tree. It's so funny when they do that.

Oh, when I was changing into my swimsuit- it's kind of an older one, but one of my favorites. I noticed that the seam is coming apart down by my right hip! I was hoping MWNBR!!!

The nearest "big" town (125,000?) to me is Gainesville, Florida. I'm 15 miles out NW.

When they do 1000k rides, it's typically an out and back course. The one in Florida is something like 300k, host hotel, 200k out, 200k back, host hotel, 300k home. It would be a long ride...600k's a long ride!!

[Nanci]

http://www.collegehumor.com/news/2005-01-20.napoleon.php

[DrBee]

I'm going to have to rent this movie.

Sorry to hear about the squirrel Nanci. And the bathing suit. I pulled an old Speedo out of the drawer the other day. The butt had almost completely disintegrated and was a bit transparent. MWDBR!!

[Lise]

I'm heeere! I'm heeeere! Nope, I'm leaving again. But to briefly interject--the date was nice...he seems oddly hesitant about touching me. Yet interested. A nice kiss, yet, brief. I suppose this is better than the guy who made out with me in the parking lot after the first dinner and then....cancelled the next date by email at midnight the night before the date. Mr. P. also will be interviewing soon for a job shift that would take him to Indianapolis, so this may explain the hesitation. He wanted to get together again tomorrow evening, but I'm starting a 24 hr shift then, so I declined. He's out of town next week. You know what comes next...MWBR. Fine with me for right now.

Nanci, sorry about the squirrel. Glad about the turkey. I hope that NTMWR with the suit! (Not Too Much Was ... etc.) Thanks for the ND quote site! I love that line about girls wanting boyfriends with great skills. Skills? Yeah, like numchuck skills... ;)

It's hotter than freakin' heck here. I ran 3.5 miles with my pal, Jamie, at 7AM, and we nearly died of heat prostration. It's *that* time of year in Chicago! It didn't help that I was out 'til 2AM on my date...nothing that exciting, girls, the band just didn't start 'til midnight!

I'm off to a party to celebrate my AA sponsor's 24th anniversary of sobriety. :D See y'all later...L.

[Nanci]

MP, I feel the opposite about running. I don't like (HATE) running on roads, so I have to drive ten miles to run on trails. To bike, though, I just go from my house. Although that's an acquired skill- I used to hate riding on roads, and had to drive at least 20 miles, usually 50, to a trail.

Nanci

[DrBee]

Lise - good to hear the date went well. No fireworks, but at least it wasn't bad!

[kelownagirl]

Hey, glad to hear Mr. still has P. Too bad he might be moving. Is it very far from you?

Running - I hate running, period. In fact, I think one of the reasons I like biking is because it is one exercise I can do sitting down. :rolleyes:

Went for a longer ride on the new bike today. Did part of the local "club ride" loop with Erik. Didn't have time to do the whole thing but still managed 42km. I don't think I could keep up with the group if I went with them though. Most of that section is hills, some pretty steep, and I could only manage about 14 mph average. I let Erik go ahead of me on the hills, and then wait for me at certain points, so I think I would definitely get dropped on the club ride. Still, he only averaged about 15 mph so I don't have that far to go... Maybe the B or C group? I need to find out what their average speed is...

Another milestone yesterday - I replaced the tires on my mountain bike by myself. I wanted to take off the slicks and put the knobbies back on now that I am only going to ride it off-road. Turned out that I put the first one backwards - Note to self: look for the arrow and the word "rotation" next time - so I actually had a little extra practice...

Nanci - are Buttercup and Koko turtles?! They sound so adorable. I never pictured a turtle "cuddling" before. Of course, maybe I missed something completely and they are something else altogether. :)

It's been hot here too. I actually remembered to put sunscreen on before we went for the ride but still, I got a little burned. Trying to get up earlier and not ride over the noon hour but oh well...

I'm p****d today because my ex decided to go to a music fest this weekend and he didn't tell me until last night that he'd be bringing the little guy home at noon today instead of Sunday evening. Argh....

Fishdr and Maillotpois - what do your names mean???

I am reading TD because I am avoiding doing yard work in this heat. Somebody post something please :)

barb

[Nanci]

Koko and Buttercup are Desert Tortoises.

Maillotpois is what the white with red polka dot jersey in Tour de France, King of the Mountains, is called. "Jersey Peas," right?

Fishdr is a some sort of PhD to do with fishes. She's trying to switch to bees, though.

All reptiles like to cuddle- you just have to give them the chance.

Everyone, _everyone_ on my ride today was whining about the heat at 11AM. Whatever! This is why we live in Florida! I love summer! Perhaps if they didn't drive everywhere in their air-conditioned cars, and had home A/Cs that couldn't keep up (mine is reading 83F at 9PM after running full blast all day...) and had to sit outside at 5PM for two hours while the torts grazed, when it was still 90F, then maybe they'd be acclimated like me!! It really makes cycling in the summer a lot more fun...

[kelownagirl]

Hmm, I wondered if it had something to do with the tdf - I wonder why they call the King of the Mountain "Jersey Peas"...

I looked up the tortoises on the internet - what an interesting pet! Did you buy them? find them? or are you looking after them?

Tried some Malbec last night and it was pretty good. I know I've had it somewhere and I liked it then but I've never bought any. They only had two kinds at my LLS :) because they are renovating so I bought the cheap one to try first. It's from Argentina. Might try the more expensive one next. Of course that would defeat the purpose of looking for cheaper wines... (So "Malbec" would translate roughly into "bad nose" - unless it's not a French word. I wonder why? Hmmm....)

[Lise]

I always think of it as "polka dots", though I know it means "peas". That makes the PP either "little peas" or "little polka dots". :p

Making cookies for a picnic tomorrow. Soooo tired. Cook! Cook faster! The thing is, I have the grown-up equivalent of an EZ Bake Oven. It is so small, and has only one rack. I have the world's smallest cookie sheet. I can bake 8 cookies at a time. The joys and pains of an old-fashioned Chicago apartment. :rolleyes:

[kelownagirl]

I always think of it as "polka dots", though I know it means "peas". That makes the PP either "little peas" or "little polka dots". :p

Making cookies for a picnic tomorrow. Soooo tired. Cook! Cook faster! The thing is, I have the grown-up equivalent of an EZ Bake Oven. It is so small, and has only one rack. I have the world's smallest cookie sheet. I can bake 8 cookies at a time. The joys and pains of an old-fashioned Chicago apartment. :rolleyes:


I always thought of them as polka dots too. Little pink peas - still weird..

I had to stove on for about 20 minutes today to make potato salad and it heated up the whole kitchen. Couldn't even think of turning on the oven to make cookies. Good on you for making home made!

[Lise]

I have a curtain up over the kitchen doorway, to keep the cool air in the DR/LR/BR. It's impossible to cool the kitchen with my two window units anyways, so it's just always summer in there.

I'm making home made because it's a special occasion. My AA sponsor's 24th anniversary of sobriety, and our "home" group's annual picnic. Nobody else would merit this on the hottest day of the year! :D

[kelownagirl]

Well you can't beat a reason like that - 24 years! Congrats to your sponsor!

[SadieKate]

maillotpois is Sarah's play on the maillot Ã* pois rouge given to the best climber in the TdF. Here is the history. The polka dots are due to the original jersey sponsor, fittingly enough a chocolate maker.

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

[crazycanuck]

Nanci, i now have a clue where in florida ya are....I was bored...

http://maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?addr=&csz=Gainesville%2C+FL&state=FL&uzip=32601&ds=n&name=&desc=&lat=29.651138&lon=-82.323822&mlt=29.651138&mln=-82.323822&zoomin=yes&BFKey=&resize=l&trf=0&mag=7

Fishdr (lahni/lahnie...i can't spell it...) studies Catfish (in I think lousiana???...) & is going to St john's this week to present a paper at a fish conference....funky!!! Have fun on your trip dear & don''t eat too many chocolate tim bits.

I now have another biking partner!!! Ellie & her other half are pretty new to perth (from guelph!!!) & went out to Jarrahdale for a few laps on the 12hr trail. Ellie & I are almost the same speed which is nice as she can join us (myself & my other riding partner renee) on more trails.!!!

I'm off to read more of "Pity the nation" by Robert Fisk-(want info on lebanon then this is the book. Highly recommended by a friend.)

One more is "Six Days"by jeremy bowen (bbc reporter)

have a good night kids

c

ps-I now have a hidden agenda-sending fattening Timtams to lise...(im Tam Latte ones on the way)...hahahahahhahah...See lise float away...

[snapdragen]

Good morning ladies. This is what happens when you fall asleep at 9 pm -you are awake at 6 am. On a Sunday! Ugh.

Met up with tprevost and her friend Nancy, and the bobs for the Healdsburg Harvest ride. (ride reports later) After the ride T, N and I went to a couple of wineries. I loved Preston of Dry Creek - not only is it too cute, but the wine is good. I bought a bottle of Barbera and a blended white called Madame Preston. Now to hide them so dear father doesn't open them. Apparently any wine in our little wine cabinet is fair game, so I now stash my special bottles in my closet!:o

[DrBee]

Fishdr came about because, yes I have a Ph.D., yes I study catfish and I work on fish diseases (disease resistance). When my daughter was age 2, she asked me what I did for a job. I told her and she said "oh, you're a fish doctor". Hence the name. And CC - it's Lanie - you were close. And I currently live in Mississippi and am applying for a job working on disease resistance in bees in Louisiana.

I finally got to ride this morning! Wow did it feel good to finally get out there!

[DrBee]

CC - very cool on getting another riding partner! I was supposed to have one, but she seems to have vanished off the face of the Earth. :confused: Have fun!

[KnottedYet]

I'm housesitting for my dear friend who has known me darn near forever. She has critters. This is when I need someone like Nanci!

Dog - he's ok, loves my dog, it's a week-long playdate as far as they are concerned

Bunnies - in a cage outside. They are litter-box trained. My lord, are they stinky! I've tried to scrub the old dried pee off the cage and the litterbox, but it won't come off! Oh, wise Nanci, how do I get dried bunny pee off a solid vinyl cage bottom and plastic litter box? (without poisoning the bunnies)

Cats - in the house and semi-feral. Well, 2 of them are. Haven't seen those two. The other one rules the roost. Again, major stink factor at the litter box. I'm cleaning the boxes every other day, but the smell remains. Can I put baking soda in the litter to cut down the odor? Will that hurt the cats' feet or anything?

She has cable, so I've been able to see a little TdF. Wooo-hooo! There are so many channels on cable. If I had cable I'd probably never leave the house....

[kelownagirl]

Nice that you are willing to housesit with all those pets. It's always an issue for us when we go away, too - two dogs and a cat.

Not sure what you can use to get the urine smell out but I always use scented cat litter to keep the smell down. Have to be careful which one you buy though - some are waaaaay too strong.

barb

[Nanci]

I'm asking the bunny expert about what to remove pee with.

I just got done with a two hour ride in 90F. Forgot my Succeed caps so worried about that. I went down osme road I always wanted to see wehre it went, and it was nice, but kind of rough, and not very shady, and then it came out on a busy road with no bike lane, so I had to backtrack the whole way. I have lost any ambition I had to go grocery shopping or to Target to get wrappings for my SS present, which is otherwise ready to go.

Oh, and I had a cleaning frenzy in the kitchen and threw out about 10 water bottles. Mostly from races- but they weren't cool, they were cheap ones from whoever the sponsor was. We also have about ten Gatorade bottles. Plus I now have three Polar bottles- the smartest thing they ever did was start making them in colors, so I would have to get more.

I'm thinking I need to move Fagalo's pen to an even shadier part of the yard. I have a giant Mimosa tree that he could go under. I caught 30 slugs for him this morning- what a feast!

I am really craving blueberry wine, but hate to burn the gas to drive out to the winery. It sucks that gas prices are now influencing my lifestyle- I would have driven to the trail I love to ride really far on, but it's 50 miles one way. I didn't used to care. Want to go to the winery, but it's way out in the country and none of the other errands I need to do are that direction. Wouldn't it be nice if we got a cost of living raise down here (south) annually, like they do up north???

[Nanci]

And this is why we ask the experts:

"A green scrubbie and ammonia. But why would you want to get it off? I clean my boxes with water only and then wipe them dry so I don't remove their scent."

[KnottedYet]

Okey-dokey! Thanks, Nanci. I'll just rinse the bunny stuff then.

Dang, I'm tired. Rode 42 miles on the commuter-mobile. did a number on my left wrist - went over a big ol' tree root while hanging from the bars by my fingertips cuz my hands were tired. Twanged my median nerve something awful!

Note to self: next bike, DROP BARS :eek:

[Lise]

KN, sorry to hear about the wrist. Did you fall, or just get a big jolt?

[KnottedYet]

Nope, just a big jolt, cuz I was being a big dolt.

Felt like one of those "duh" moments: gee, keep hands on handle bars cuz you might hit a bump! and here I was, doinking around NOT holding the bars correctly and hit a bump!

Listen to your mother. don't run with scissors. Keep your hands where they belong.

And buy drop bars or bar ends to change hand positions.

(cuz you know those tree roots are just lying in wait.... like snakes in the grass....)

[snapdragen]

(cuz you know those tree roots are just lying in wait.... like snakes in the grass....)

Yeah but those snakes are just waiting for you to make them a pet...just ask Nanci!:D

[Lise]

I just watched the DVD of last year's Kona IM. Faris Al-Sultan made it look easy, Natascha Badman won her 6th championship with characteristic grace, the Blazeman fought ALS, the woman with one leg (whose name I can't remember) was amazing and beautiful, Carlos, the combat veteran with no use of his legs won the physically challenged race, again. And I cried through most of it. Nanci, I'll pack them up and send the DVDs off to you on Tuesday. What an amazing journey.

I was talking at the party last night with a friend who ran the Chicago Marathon last year. He hadn't known that I'd done it, too. We agreed that just about anyone (who wants to) can finish a marathon. Not many people can stick with the training. Multiply that almost exponentially for the IM triathlon. Those who truly train, like our own Running Mommy, have all my respect. Heck, anyone who finishes has my respect! I respect the race, don't get me wrong, but the training is really, really hard. Last night Brian said, "I find it much easier to keep going on a run when 1.5 million people are cheering for me!"

Heading downtown to a meeting this morning, I saw 1/2 of Lake Shore Drive blocked off for riders--the Gay Games triathlon. I was sorry that other commitments kept me from being down there to cheer. It's the same course as Accenture, the largest tri in the world.

Starting a 24 hr call shift tonight. Going to try to catch some zzzz's before the beeper starts going off. :rolleyes: L.

[DrBee]

I hope you get some sleep Lise!

I'm headed to bed - busy day prepping for trip. I almost have my slides done! Yippee! It was tough to put the kids to bed tonight. I miss them soooo much when I travel. I'll at least see FishJr in the AM before I leave. I'm not sure how much internet connectivity I'm going to have while I'm gone - hotel charges for the connection. So - I'll talk to y'all soon! Night night.

[Lise]

Hey, fish, glad your slides are done. How long will you be gone? I was delighted when I went to my conference in May to learn that one of the sponsors had funded four terminals with internet connectivity at the expo. I checked email & TE several times a day.

I slept for an hour and then got paged by a lady who basically needed me to tell her "go to the ER".

Had an odd TE related dream in that one hour of sleep: Nanci and I were posting at the same time on TD (of course). We could see each other through our screens, which were huge. We smiled and waved at each other, then stepped through the screens and gave each other a hug! And went back to posting. Dang, that internet is something else!

Going back to bed. Safe travels and happy lecturing, fishdr. L.

[crazycanuck]

:) A mishmash of thoughts for my lovelies in TE land...

Yipppeeeeeeee...I have to get my fingers prepared & into fast mode....BIlly Joel's coming to Perth and tickets go on sale July 31st ......:D .....!!!!! No clue how successful i'll be but i'm taking a couple of hours off that morning off just to be on the phone & online....Wish me luck..(workmates did the same thing at work for robbie w & ashes tickets and will check to see how successful they were)

Hey do you guys get Top Gear on Tv in The US???? If you have a chance, watch the show as it's a riot!!! http://www.bbc.co.uk/topgear/
We're sort of watching it on SBS now.

Lise, i thought of you today-not only because i remembered to send the tim tams but there was a story about the heatwave in Chicago...(i'm sure they won't be able to melt at your house)

I spoke to afriend of ours(ian's workmate's other half) tonight as I know she has family (she's british/australian/lebanese & grew up in beirut during the bad times) in Beirut. Her family is mainly depressed but otherwise ok. She's getting tired of people saying "oh it's simple, just "get rid of x, y &z" errr no, nice try ,thanks for thinking but go read some more k....
( I don't mean to get political guys but what;s bothering me now is whole populations are being colletively punished which really isn't fair...)

Margo, I hope you and your family are alright. ( know we've said it before but i'll say it again...:) ) Hopefully someone out there will grow some **** & do the right thing...

Fish-have fun in nfld & don't forget your rain jacket...


Ciao for now kids

c

[margo49]

:) A mishmash of thoughts for my lovelies in TE land...


( I don't mean to get political guys but what;s bothering me now is whole populations are being colletively punished which really isn't fair...)

Margo, I hope you and your family are alright. ( know we've said it before but i'll say it again...:) ) Hopefully someone out there will grow some **** & do the right thing...



Yeah...not fair to judge any country by the things its politicians do

Now I will say it again

If women cyclists ruled the world...

[SadieKate]

Can one of you tell me what "P.A.-C." means? Physician's Assistant - what??

My dad has some weird health stuff going on and they're off for another appt s'afternoon. What is this designation?

Thanks.

[dachshund]

Helloooo... Bikerz mentioned that this was a great thread. Wow - tips on wine, dating, chocolate, and, um, turtles. And I wish I knew about this during the HSAI flame war. What a train wreck.

Y'all have some very cute kids and pets, I must say. I don't have kids, although I'm kind of a grandmother-in-law through my GF. But at home we do have two very short dogs. :)

[Lise]

Can one of you tell me what "P.A.-C." means? Physician's Assistant - what??

My dad has some weird health stuff going on and they're off for another appt s'afternoon. What is this designation?

Thanks.
SK, I think it means "Certified", but what that means beyond the P.A. designation, I can't tell you. I would ask the PA him/herself. The office staff may not be any better informed than I am. Hope the appt is useful for your dad. Sorry to hear wierd stuff is going on. In my experience, PAs (like NPs) are really diligent and thorough. Hope this one lives up to expectations.

[Lise]

Helloooo... Bikerz mentioned that this was a great thread. Wow - tips on wine, dating, chocolate, and, um, turtles. And I wish I knew about this during the HSAI flame war. What a train wreck.

Y'all have some very cute kids and pets, I must say. I don't have kids, although I'm kind of a grandmother-in-law through my GF. But at home we do have two very short dogs. :)
Two very short dogs counts for a lot. But I may be a bit biased...:rolleyes: Glad you found us over here, dachshund!

My two cats spent the night delivering their toys to my bedroom door. In an unusual fit of neatness, I picked up all their toys last night and put them on their catnip mat. (Don't ask. I had a fit of cat toy buying last week). I heard a fair amount of meowing through the night, which is what they do when they've "killed" a toy and are presenting it as a trophy (or something). I was on-call, but got to stay home all night. When I got up in the morning, there were 4 cat toys just inside my bedroom door. :D :D :D Goofballs!

[SadieKate]

SK, I think it means "Certified", but what that means beyond the P.A. designation, I can't tell you.Thanks, Lise. This was our guess but really didn't have a clue.

Dad is having all sorts of problems that can't yet be pinned down. What is really awful is that his personality is getting pretty nasty though he does recognize that his anger goes beyond what is appropriate. We're guessing that maybe some strokes are happening but, again, really don't know. I'll talk to my brother and see if he sees the personality changes but not sure that he will be objective. He is very protective of my father. My mother has micro-managed for years and talked about him behind his back so some of what my dad is saying may be some years of resentment about this. However, her micro-management may be what takes care of him as he gets older. He'll be 79 in October though he's acted like 79 for decades.

NPs - Number 1 criteria for picking a gynecologist is that the NP does the annual exam so I rarely have to deal with the doc.

[maillotpois]

Wow, SK, that stinks. Sorry.

[Lise]

SK, I'm sorry to hear it. Family dynamics are so hard. Hang in there, take care of yourself, too. L.

[kelownagirl]

Sadiekate - sorry you're going thru that. It makes sense that small strokes could alter personality. Hope they get it figured out soon.

Lise - your cats sounds hilarious. How many do you have? My daughter brought home some fresh catnip for our little Zoe last night. It was in a ziplock bag in her purse but Zoe found it, ripped it open, and had catnip all over Carly's bed. Pretty strong smelling stuff...

I had my first spill on the road bike today - a stupid, slow-motion fall UPhill no less. All week, I've been only clipping in about half the time, tending to stay unclipped in heavy traffic or going uphill. Today I decided to bite the bullet and just stay in them as much as possible. Anyway, at the same time, I'm having a bit 'o trouble with my front derailleur and it's not shifting quite right sometimes. I started up a steep hill, was going fairly slowly, shifted down and the darn chain fell right off. Tried to unclip but was going too slow and ended up falling over. Got a bruise and some road rash just below my knee, and bumped my hip and elbow a bit. Didn't hurt too much but my knees were just shaking from the idea of it all. Ha ha, what a wimp I am sometimes. It's freaky knowing you are going to fall but not being able to do anything about it. Luckily Erik wasn't too far ahead and heard me swearing so stopped to help. Anyway, I'm glad I got that first fall out of the way. My knee's a bit stiff now that I've been home and resting awhile. Hope it doesn't interfere with riding tomorrow. I did well in the heat today. Maybe I'm getting used to it... Hope so...

[dachshund]

My two cats spent the night delivering their toys to my bedroom door.

Ha! I have a cat, too, though he's not quite this clever. I swear every twenty minutes his memory resets, because he looks at me wide-eyed, as if to say, "do you live here, too?"

One of the dachshunds - the one in the picture - does a routine that looks like he's killing something as a sacrifice before dinner. He'll grab whatever cloth item is handy and start ripping it. We have to keep old teeshirts around for this. Then he puts a tennis ball under the teeshirt, shakes it, and rips the cloth some more. This goes on until he's called to dinner. He picks up the tennis ball, runs over to his bowl, drops the tennis ball, then starts eating. He does this before every meal.

Lord knows what TV shows this dog is watching while we're gone....

[Lise]

Oh, man, that's funny. I mean the pre-dinner t-shirt slaughter, not kg's uphill fall. I think the only reason I've never fallen going uphill is that I live in the flatland. Sorry to hear about the chain falling off. Nothin' you can do but stop when that happens!

I have two cats, Isaac and Ariel. They're about 16 & 17 years old, but you wouldn't know it by their antics. When they decide a toy is conquered, they sit with it between their forepaws and meow like trumpets. Or sometimes walk around with it in their mouth, meowing with a mouthful of toy. One time someone brought me a catnip plant in a pot. Isaac attacked it and left nothing but stems, dirt, and broken pot. Drugs for cats. The mat I got them is about 1 ft square, with an opening for inserting catnip. When I first put it in, they wrested it all over the house. Now they just lay on it.

Our dachshund, Schatzi, always had a garden glove handy to toss around in joy when we came home. If she couldn't find it, she'd get anything else handy, especially kleenex, and throw it up in the air, run around like a maniac, throw it up again. At dinner time she'd just push her bowl around with her snout until we got the point. Maybe your guy's routine is a male thing--kill the beast, eat the beast! As far as he knows, that t-shirt and tennis ball is a badger!

[dachshund]

Lise, yeah, it took us a while, but we finally caught on to what Mr. Badger Hound was up to.

kelownagirl, boy that's tough. My bike throws the chain more often than it should. Darn thing. There must be a "stop" setting on the derailleur for that. One of my research projects.

Re chocolate: For anyone who lives or works in San Francisco, this place is has pretty fabulous chocolate,
http://www.embarcaderoshop.com/pages/confetti.html

[SadieKate]

So, are you joining us for the Tour de Scharffen Berger? Based on the early respondents it looks like it will be on August 26 or 27.

[dachshund]

Yeah, I was thinking about it. OK, put me on the list. Thanks!

[kelownagirl]

Daschund - I just love the face of your pup on your avatar. How adorable!

We have a spinny golden retriever (Angel - which she's definitely not) and a much better-mannered chocolate lab (Gabe). They have been living together for about a year and get along tremendously but they LOVE to wrestle. They tear my house apart when they start running around, chasing each other, and rolling all over the place. People can't believe we live this way when they come over but I wouldn't have it any other way. I love my dogs...

[spazzdog]

OK, it's now hugely obvious I need to re-enter the workplace.

I'm watching Oprah... not necessarily a bad thing as she does have some interesting, thought provoking shows on occasion.

But today it's the British ladies that point out all the "don'ts" of fashion for women, with the main topic being bras.

I'm intrigued. I'm amazed. I'm in awe of that thing also know as a "boulder holder".

Even I, with what I term "little old lady change purse" boobies, can have breasts that are in the correct anatomical position (instead of looking south) AND fill out a t-shirt nicly.

WOW!!!

spazz (who's off to Monster to submit resumes)

[dachshund]

Thanks! They take turns wrestling with the cat. I'm not sure what the score is at this point. They're too small to destroy much, fortunately. :)

[SadieKate]

They take turns wrestling with the cat. I'm not sure what the score is at this point. They're too small to destroy much, fortunately. :)Spazz's boobies? :eek:

[snapdragen]

Can one of you tell me what "P.A.-C." means? Physician's Assistant - what??

My dad has some weird health stuff going on and they're off for another appt s'afternoon. What is this designation?

Thanks.

The ladies are correct, I checked with a PA friend. It stands for certified.

[SadieKate]

Certified as in Board Certified? What is an uncertified PA?

BTW, thanks.

[kelownagirl]

Spazz's boobies? :eek:

LOL!!! I thought the same thing... :D

[kelownagirl]

OK, it's now hugely obvious I need to re-enter the workplace.

I'm watching Oprah... not necessarily a bad thing as she does have some interesting, thought provoking shows on occasion.

But today it's the British ladies that point out all the "don'ts" of fashion for women, with the main topic being bras.

I'm intrigued. I'm amazed. I'm in awe of that thing also know as a "boulder holder".

Even I, with what I term "little old lady change purse" boobies, can have breasts that are in the correct anatomical position (instead of looking south) AND fill out a t-shirt nicly.

WOW!!!

spazz (who's off to Monster to submit resumes)

Trying to find the connection between bras and getting a job... Are you planning to apply at Hooters? ;)

I am in desparate need of new bras, and undies too. My best friend has a gazillion "sets" of bras and panties. They all match. If she accidently puts on an unmatched set, she'll drive home and change. I have two bras - they are both white. Oh, and my token sexy black one. All my panties are boring and too large. They match my butt I guess. :) I want at least one set of matching bras and panties. Better go put on Oprah...

[snapdragen]

Certified as in Board Certified? What is an uncertified PA?

BTW, thanks.

Yup, I remember him talking about having to go through the recertification process. Don't know about an uncertified pa.

[snapdragen]

Ooh - here sadiekate:

http://www.aapa.org/geninfo1.html

[SadieKate]

Fabulous! Thanks, snap!

[spazzdog]

Yes, I have boobies... small and neglected, usually corralled into a "Barely There" pull-it-over-your head type bra, but boobies none the less, er, more??

And now, when next I go shopping for bras, I will be armed with empowering information thanks to Oprah.

I will get properly fitted.

And purchase the bra that the nice saleslady tells me to...

...which will probably be a "Barely There" pull-it-over-your head type bra. :D

spazz

[Jones]

I just bought two white bras today, they are my only white bras. When I got home Opera was on and I wished I had watched her show first. I didn't even try the bras on:eek: Jones

[spazzdog]

SEE!!

And you felt, I don't know... felt uninformed, huh?

Boobies unite! Better bras for all!!!

All together now - Tits UP! Now smile... :D

[SadieKate]

Boobies unite!Uh, the uniboob look is not good for me.:rolleyes:

[maillotpois]

Uh, the uniboob look is not good for me.:rolleyes:


You're thinking of a cyclops boob? One in the middle?

[SadieKate]

Yes, the one that results from compression sport bras.

[salsabike]

Guys! Did she do the bra-fitting show again? Someone told me about her last show on this same topic a couple of years ago, and last year I spent two hours at Nordstrom's getting the one and only bra fitting of my life. Weirdly enough, it was really fun. And for the first time, I do actually have bras that fit well and even are pretty. From a girl who a) didn't need (as in, not much there) and b) hated bras all her life, this is a tribute indeed. Weird but true.

[dachshund]

Spazz's boobies? :eek:

Is this what we would call a non sequitur??

I'm still carefully considering my response...

[Lise]

1. I thought that, too. Not sure who was wrestling with what there for a moment.

2. Bra fitting has never been a good experience for me. I have large breasts. A 36D fits, sort of, usually. But there is no consistency of bra shape or size, so it's all a gamble. I invested a bunch of money in some Enell bras for running. I had to go buy an extender for the bottom couple of hooks, so I could breathe. It fits my boobs fine, but constrict my ribs too much around the bottom of the bra. Do I have an unusually large rib cage? I don't think so. Most sports bras leave me totally uniboobed. I just live with it.

3. Thanks for the link about the PAs, snap. I'm more knowledgeable now.

4. Finally, and always: Dachshunds rule! :D

[salsabike]

Weird, huh, how different it is for all of us? At the proper weight, I have, like, nothing much up there. During my ballet years, other dancers with real breasts would actually come up to me and say, "Gee, I wish I looked like that"---this, after years of me wishing I HAD something to see (the reason for the flatness envy is that breasts sort of interfere with the visual body line in ballet. Double weird re ballet body values, but that's another issue). I had a ballet teacher once, a tiny person, who described herself as having "two raisins". My best friend from HS days, on the other hand, insists she has permanent shoulder grooves from the weight of her equipment and the bras she needs to hold them. And that, I believe.

Hope your AC is working well. I'd invite you all out here for a break from the heat, but the Seattle forecasters say we will also be in the low 90s by this weekend...

[spazzdog]

Quote:
Originally Posted by SadieKate
Spazz's boobies?

Dachshund
Is this what we would call a non sequitur??

I'm still carefully considering my response...

Better than calling it an oxymoron...

Go ahead WeenerDog; hit me with your best shot! My lil boobies can take it! :eek:

[dachshund]

Spazzdog: The comment about cats & dogs wrestling, which hit just as you veered sharply into boobie territory. THAT non sequitur.

I always say, people should use their signals more often.

Now I'm going to tip-toe out of this topic... But I may be back.

[Lise]

We don' need no stinkin' signals in T'read Drift, man! :cool:

We veer at random. Random veerage. Where the h-e-double toothpicks is Nanci? Oh, Yeah, she was all over it when Peter Reid was the topic, but when it's boobies and wrestling beasts, she's nowhere to be found! (Hey la, hey la, her BF's back!)

Oh, man, I saw a picture of myself taken in scant clothing at the picnic this weekend. I am not yet as svelte as I might think. SIGH. I was more covered than I would've been in a bathing suit, but believe me, I'll be even more covered (or skinnier) next year. Rosie O'Donnell was in this movie called Beautiful Girls some years ago. She had this monologue in a drug store about how men want big breasts, but they don't want the belly and butt that go with them. It was great. I got the belly and hips. Not much butt. Too much in front, not enough in back. :rolleyes:

[spazzdog]

Ahh, come on back you little sausage pooch you!

You should know "dogs" don't have turn signals... we just follow our noses.

Mine just happened to be buried in bras.

(whoops! that didn't quit come out right)

spazzdog

[Trek420]

speaking of dogs, Mae was on her walk with twice a week neighbor dog walker (now called in this post DW) today and she stepped on a bee. :eek: the dog not the DW

According to dog walker poor Mae yelped, lay down began licking the paw. DW then wonders "how'm I going to get this dog home? She's too heavy to lift".

Mae must have licked the stinger out. I am very proud of her, at one point an elderly man came up and offered to hold the leash. Mae let DW examine the paw while elderly stranger guy held the leash. Gave DW a lick on the face at this point.

Then they slowly, with some breaks (kinda like Bikerz, dachsund and me on the Hotter-then-Hell 40 on Sunday) came home. DW called me nothing I can do till I get home but she applied ice.

I've been watching her, no reactions to the sting, Mae seems fine now.

[dachshund]

bras: I watched Oprah's show. I Tivo it every day. That and PBS news hour. So thanks for the tip. Let's see, Oprah talking about bras vs. more on the Mideast Crisis... Bras, mideast, bras.....

I hate knowing how much I'm a "fashion don't" though. Sigh. I'll never catch up.

If I ever heal from that sunburn, then I can stop wearing my long-sleeved cycling jersey. Then I'll feel more in fashion.

Sunday's fryer ride: Spazz, we missed you, but that was the hottest dang ride I've ever been on. There were some smart people who bailed early.

[Trek420]

I dunno, If I was smart...I'd have brought the camel back, or a trailer for that gallon of water....or stayed home ;) Cindysue, how are you?

Dachsund, would you feel in fashion with short sleeve jersey and arm skins?

[kelownagirl]

speaking of dogs, Mae was on her walk with twice a week neighbor dog walker (now called in this post DW) today and she stepped on a bee. :eek: the dog not the DW


OK - so now I need to know what kind of dog Mae is. Poor thing getting stung. I never thought a dog would be that sensitive. My dumb dogs catches and eats bees and wasps and I'm always sure she's going to get stung in the mouth. Ohh, I cringe just thinking about it...

[Trek420]

Aparently it was on her paw, and I'm surprised it took that long because if there's a bee on "her" patio she hunts it.

She's a lab/pitt/sumthin' sumthin' mix. Looks like a yellow lab.

[Nanci]

We just got home last night at 11:30 from getting THIS:

http://www.rmh-d.com/models/FLHTCUI.php

I want to stay home and pet it...Will get pics after work?

[Lise]

WHOA! I could see not going to work, with that beauty at home! Looking forward to pix and tales of the road. :D L.

[kelownagirl]

Wow, he bought one! And a grownup bike to boot! I was looking closely at one of those a few days ago - they are so amazing now - so many features. You guys will have fun! Do you plan to do some touring?

[Nanci]

He calls it the Grandpa Bike. We had to get a 2006 because of some Florida EPA regulations involving the exhaust system which can't be altered in 2007. I wish I knew how much my check Friday was going to be!! (Need a helmet...)

Nanci

[dachshund]

Dachsund, would you feel in fashion with short sleeve jersey and arm skins?

Yes! Got any recommendations??

[Nanci]

I just signed up for OT on Sunday, so I will be working 13 days in a row, including 3 of OT!

[Nanci]

(This is an A rider from my club)


many people have emailed and asked that i explain what happened
saturday regarding a large gcc group on millhopper road this past
saturday. the requests come from a sincere effort to stem rumors and
enhance rider's awareness of how to ride more safely, particularly in
that area of millhopper road, which is riddled with blind driveways
and other hidden roads. not to mention the gainesville sun article,
which didn't even scratch the surface of what really happened.

i am reluctant to make any detailed or official statement, as i was
only one of about 24 cyclists. all of us naturally had, and have,
different perspectives and interpretations, especially during a
quickly developing and dangerous event.

however, in the interest of safe riding and productive dialogue, here
is a basic framework as to how i saw it unfold. please keep in mind,
this certainly is not the only version of how it happened. and i am
not a spokesman for the group in any way. i respectfully request
that people not email me w/ additional questions regarding this email.

? ? ?

a vehicle, traveling in the same direction as the cycling group on
millhopper road, tries to turn right at a time when our gcc cyclist
group had already effectively blocked the turn by the normal course
of riding in the bike lane, two abreast, towards the chevron
station. speeding to try and make the turn, the driver clearly
misjudges the distance and realizes at the very last second that the
group would be in his way. he slams on the brakes, nearly smashing
into the front part of the group and taking up valuable space in the
road and bike lane. we are roughly one mile away from the chevron.

the riders, almost getting hit, swerve to avoid collision and yell to
gain the attention of the driver and other cyclists. the vehicle
screeches to a stop, just in time to avoid direct collision. riders
try to pass and regroup, stunned and terribly unimpressed with this
display of dangerous driving. the group continues onward, startled
and scattered, but is quckly regrouping.

out of my view, perhaps something provokes the driver. or maybe he
isn't provoked at all. it is unclear. but now that most of the
group has passed the car, the driver revs the engine and again speeds
towards the group. yells are called for heads up. the car speeds
faster and faster, engine sounds redlined. just feet away from the
main part of the scattered group, the car slams on brakes, skidding
several feet and stopping just a few more feet from a large number of
cyclists. now the group is very angry and feels under attack. a few
people crash trying to avoid collision with the car, not seriously
injured, but road rash and damaged bike(s).

the driver starts screaming out of the window, gets out of car,
leaves car in the middle of the road. cyclists, now livid, start
yelling back. there is a shouting match for several minutes, both
sides trying to make a point. man tries to get back into car to
speed off. cyclists try furiously to remember the tag id. the
driver can't find keys, curses about not having his keys. cyclists
are now calling the police. the shouting subsides and people calm
down after several more minutes, but scene remains tense. the car
remains in the road. all traffic is forced around it.

when the police arrive, officers find the keys and drive the car out
of the street. most riders are able to leave at this point. a few
stay behind to give statements and talk with officers. apparently,
the driver is ultimately charged w/ reckless driving and gets fine
and driving school.

[Nanci]

( I didn't write this).


First, to preclude any confusion, I was not party to the Millhopper
incident of 15 July. I have though read the e-mails, G'ville Sun
article, and spoken to some of those involved. The common thread in
all these absorbed communications is the responsibility of the
cyclist: a renewed introspection as to our behavior on the road
encompassing common sense, legal compliance, and pro-active courtesy.
And I trust that we all concur with each of these precepts,
consciously embracing them every time we mount the bike.

Yet nothing in the discourse suggests that any of these were wonting
in this event on the part of the cyclists. Stunningly, no one notes
that this particular driver should be in jail. It is the usual
consequence attending assault and battery with a deadly weapon.

Do we collectively embrace a victim mentality? Stunned & pleased that
this driver will have to take a driver education course. Oh sure, the
fallen cyclists only suffered minor road rash, property damage. Would
the driver's fault be greater if one or two of the cyclists, being
less agile in evasion, had struck the car? Or had just happened to
crashing die?

In my time in Gainesville, there have been a number of events in which
drivers have intentionally endangered and injured cyclists; and
druggedly killed. None have been punished in any manner consonant
with the crime. And always the discourse centers on our
responsibilities to be courteous riders. Fine! I submit that it is
our responsibility - to one another, to cyclists generally, to the
civic health of society - to prosecute felons and to publicize
consequences.

Reality Check: Filing charges increases the already significant
chance of civil/criminal suits by the driver - against individual
members - with attendant costs. Will we take collective
responsibility? Where is the Legal Fund?

The relatively minor physical consequences in this event reflect the
skill of the riders - not the intent of the driver. This man should
be in jail - now. I will feel more secure on the road for his absence
from it; and for the knowledge and expectation that reasonable
standards do apply, will be applied, to those who assault my family,
my friends, or me.

[Nanci]

Not mentioned here, the incident involved three different law enforcement agencies. The driver's keys were apparently taken away and thrown into the woods at some point.

[maillotpois]

Wow, scary stuff, Nanci. Good thinking to whoever threw the keys into the woods - though the outcome could have been worse.

[DrBee]

Hi there! I'm in St. John's. I go away for a few days and y'all are talking about boobies and beastie wrestling matches. Craziness!

St. John's is awesome! CC - my raincoat has a hole in it, so I didn't bring it. I could use it, but that's okay.

On the plane to here I had my seat moved to sit further forward in the plane. This seems insignificant. Well - I was reading the Triathlon book that Lise suggested (thank you btw) and the woman next to me asks about it. She is a triathlete and is attending the same conference I am. The plane ride went so fast - we chatted the whole time! I told her about TE and TD - she should hopefully be joining us soon! How cool is that???

Well - go back to your boobie talk - I have a reception to go to.

I saw tons of puffins, muirs, and a minkie whale today on a tour!!!!!! Cool!

And CC - we had a screech fruitcake in the conference bag. Is this a good thing? There's also rum in there :D

Later ladies!

[dachshund]

Ms. Spazz,
What were those sunglasses again? That was apparently too much information for my poor brain to carry home after the ACT ride.

Thank you, ma'am!
Weenerdog :cool:

[spazzdog]

Sunglasses: Rx SunPro
Purchased at Site for Sore Eyes on Piedmont Ave in Oakland

[Lise]

Nanci, sorry to hear about the incident. Glad no one was seriously hurt. The guy should have gone to jail. That huge piece of metal he was driving is a deadly weapon when used as such.

Fishdr--how cool that you met up with another athlete going to the conference! Which book was it? I routinely recommend both Triathlon Training in 4 Hours a Week and Slow, Fat Triathlete.

I took the Serfas tri saddle back to LBS today. The guys seemed wierd. I've decided (of course) that they don't like me. :rolleyes: Anyhoo...I had them take the tri saddle off the tri seat post, and put my regular Serfas saddle on it. They suggested that the arm pain may be eased by using the tri seat post, as it brings me closer to the handle bars. I rode about 20 miles with the new configuration--no arm pain. It was a dramatic difference, so I hope it's not just the Motrin masking the pain. We'll see tomorrow, when I do a longish ride with my brother.

My legs definitely feel different riding with the tri seat post. The idea is to use the muscles differently so I will have more power for the run. Can anyone here explain this to me? It didn't feel bad to ride with this set up, just different. My legs felt like they were working differently. Lots of power (when the wind was at my back! :p ), no pain, just different.

My brother and his fiancee are coming into town tomorrow to celebrate the birthdays-- mine tomorrow, and my niece's on Saturday. I had emailed him to suggest we ride together. Didn't expect him to take me up on it, as his visits are usually packed with seeing friends and doing things. But tomorrow he's taking the train into the city from my sister's in the morning to hang with me! He'll ride the Larkspur, and I the Bianchi, down to a Bistro on the the beach, where we'll have lunch with mom. After lunch, he and I will ride as far south as time allows, then back to my house for dinner with the whole family.

[kelownagirl]

Scary story Nanci - were you on the ride??

[Trek420]

dachshund "Yes! Got any recommendations??"

these sold right here?

[Lise]

Whoo hoo! Those are some seriously snazzy arm warmers!

Trek--how's Mae doing today, post paw trauma? And how's your sister the Duck? She's not been heard from for lo these many days!

L.

[kelownagirl]

Can someone tell me the purpose of wearing a sleeveless jersey and arm warmers? Would a regular jersey not be simpler?

barb

[KnottedYet]

Trek - those are some peachy armwarmers... think how nice they'd go with a cool pair of capris.

BTW - my zoics have shrunk so much that I can't wear them anymore. Gonna give 'em to the DPITA. How are yours doing?

KG- I just about always wear long sleeves, and don't own any armwarmers, but I gather the idea is that you can take the armwarmers on and off and it's like changing longsleeve shirt for short sleeve shirt without having to actually take off the shirt. Like zip off legs on pants to switch shorts/pants.

[kelownagirl]

KG- I just about always wear long sleeves, and don't own any armwarmers, but I gather the idea is that you can take the armwarmers on and off and it's like changing longsleeve shirt for short sleeve shirt without having to actually take off the shirt. Like zip off legs on pants to switch shorts/pants.


Oh duh! I didn't think of that. I wear a sleeveless top almost exclusively from May - September - I get too darn hot even when it's only 65-70 degrees. I have a lovely sugoi wind vest and a nice long sleeved wind breaker that I am dying to try someday but I guess I'll have to wait until fall... I need a bigger seat bag to carry extra clothes too... I'm trying to convince Erik to get a seat bag so he can carry the tools and spare tube and I can carry my extra clothing...

[dachshund]

Trek - Those are wild! Hmmm....

Regarding the car incident: I don't know what possesses people to act this way. A guy in a car had to wait for me to cross an intersection before he could turn right, then he floored it and made loud screeching noises. I just don't get it. Maybe you have to be an impatient man, with the whole low-confidence / high-testosterone thing.

I need happy stories... I accidentally read the news today. Big mistake. I'll come up with more dog stories...

[salsabike]

Yes, reading the news these days is really horrible. I can't help doing it anyway. But add this to the mix:

http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/GiantPandas/default.cfm?cam=LP2

Make sure you scroll down the page to see the live cam. Looking at Tai being silly keeps me sane (relatively speaking, anyway).

[Nanci]

Why do cars _always_ do that- gun the engine after they pass you??? Oooh, you're a big fast car and I'm a measly little cyclist- I am _so_ impressed...

The new "bike" is awesome!!! Got a ten minute ride last night before we had to go to a birthday party, to which we could not take HD because it might rain.

What's the point of a restaurant having a 200% markup on wine? Like, I _know_ it's $9 at publix, and it's $28 at the restaurant??? I can go along with 100%, I guess, because that's standard practice, but 200% is too much. So we end up getting only one of the cheapest bottles, when we might have had a second bottle. (In Florida, you can re-cork and take home leftovers)

[Trek420]

Nanci "I just signed up for OT on Sunday, so I will be working 13 days in a row, including 3 of OT!"

They are offering OT at my work for the rest of the month and into August. I'm debating it, I could use the funds but do I want to help management out? If morale was not so bad in our office that yesterday half the staff took time off...you'd have more people here and therefore not need the OT. Fix the problem, it'll save the co. $$ :mad:

The floggings will continue till morale improves

[crazycanuck]

Fishdr-good to hear st john's is ok!

Umm.....i feel a bit "off"...I can't explain it but it's kept me off my bike for two days. I am not physically ill but i had waves of exhaustion, diziness & funny pains on my right side under my bra yesterday. Today i just don't feel "right" and i'm hungry but nothing seems exciting...it's just food...

I'm off kids..Good night.

(reminds me of the good night kiwi or good night bear on tv here)


c :)

[Nanci]

Our OT is because they are many positions short, but wait to hire until the students graduate, so everyone has to work short (on days) and the call person has to cover on other shifts. The last Sunday I worked, I was an extra person, and we were _still_ two people short...

Well, think of OT as extra money for you, not as helping out the management.

Nanci

[Trek420]

well, you put it that way, hmmmm :D

[dachshund]

What's the point of a restaurant having a 200% markup on wine?

Well, that's where they get most of their profit, selling alcohol. Don't some places let you bring your own, and charge to remove the cork? They're going to charge something either way. I look at it as a way to try different wines, and, well, I don't usually order desert. There's $7 savings!

[Nanci]

But what I'm complaining about is, yes, that's how they make their profit. Fine, I will pay double, which is the customary mark up here where I live. But three times as much as it costs is TOO MUCH.

Nanci

[SadieKate]

I hope you guys never look at the profit margin in soft drinks . . .

[dachshund]

Yeah, that's pretty shocking.

[Nanci]

This is great- on my second to last patient, I cut my thumb pretty badly opening a bottle that didn't open right- so sharp metal shards all over...After I had it bandaged, (bored at work) I spent about 15 minutes with a red marker and an alcohol wipe perfecting my fake blood poisoning. I tried it out on my boss, to no effect, since he is too busy, but when the radiologist who was there when I slashed it open came by, man did I get him! He's like, Oh, that doesn't look good...Let me see it! But I couldn't hold back anymore, I started laughing. He goes "You guys are going to be talking about this for years, now, right?"

[salsabike]

There was an article in one of the Seattle papers some years ago in which they interviewed area sommeliers with a guarantee of anonymity. Several of them said, hey, our restaurant's $30 bottle of wine is exactly what you can get at the local supermarket for $3-4 dollars. Never forgot that article.

[dachshund]

salsabike, thanks for the link to the pandacam! He's adorable!
How's the weather up in Seattle? Are you having the same heat wave that we are?

[snapdragen]

I'm doing the opposite of OT - I'm working 1/2 days for the next week. I can't take a real vacation right now, there is no one to cover for me. So, I'll go in, run all the "must be done daily" things, then leave.:cool:

Now, if only this heatwave would break, so I would actually want to go outside!

[salsabike]

salsabike, thanks for the link to the pandacam! He's adorable!
How's the weather up in Seattle? Are you having the same heat wave that we are?

It's coming...it's coming...forecast says lows 90s Friday through Sunday. Ugh. Heat weenie alert here. Thank God it wasn't LAST weekend during the Seattle to Portland ride, or I would've had to ride the Greyhound bus to Portland instead of the bike.

I've been watching the pandacam since a few weeks after he was born. We call him "the bean" because for a long time he looked just like a lima bean. He's saved my sanity on countless occasions. Pandas love to play, and he and his mother have had some hilarious sessions---lots of wrestling, pulling each other off trees, and the funniest of all, rolling down hills together, racing back up and immediately rolling down again, sometimes with him tucked inside her big body. Too funny. I'll take all the antidotes to the headlines that I can get!

[bikerz]

Drift alert!

Since we generally only see pictures of birds, reptiles, and armadillos on this thread, I thought, for variety, I'd post a picture of my plain old dog, Simon. This is pretty much the "how could you?" look I get whenever I leave the house.

1078

(I've been writing code like a maniac all day and I'm taking a short break...)

[maillotpois]

OMG!! I love Simon! What a sweetheart!!! What an expression!!

I can't photograph my dog, because he is completely black and none of his features show at all in a photo. We call him the Black Hole.

[snapdragen]

Simon is so cute! I get that look from Chloe too.

Right now she thinks I'm the best person in the world, I gave her some Peanut Butter Frosty Paws. :cool:

[bikerz]

He is a wonderful dog - a total character with a great sense of humor- he's a rescue pit-bull but he found me at one of the local BART stations.

His favorite treats are those absurdly expensive toothbrush Greenies - he has an elaborate ritual with them that involves several frenzied "victory laps", and then tossing and catching the Greenie a few times, before he finally settles and eats it. I give him one whenever I feel low, because it totally cracks me up.

I also have a completely black cat who does not photograph well - I think his face looks like a water buffalo when you look at him straight on.

[dachshund]

What a great face! I take it you can normally see his ears. :)

I have 3 pets... pictures in a minute.

[bikerz]

Oh yes! Big, floppy, asymetrical ears!

BTW, anyone interested in the pitbull rescue scene, there is a great Bay Area site with tons of information BADRAP (http://www.badrap.org/rescue/) - some cute pups out there looking for homes!

[dachshund]

Chili is the red dog in my avatar picture. He's the Alpha, the dog in charge.
He's the serious one. His hobbies are chasing bees and sleeping.
I have to take a new picture of him, since his face is almost all white now.
He's 9 years old.

This is Jazz, or Mr. Kitty. 12 years old.
1079

This is Wilson, Mr. Longhaired dachshund.
He's kind of "the blond" in the family, loves to be groomed,
always happy, never serious. He loves ice cubes. He's 7.
1080

[bikerz]

Nice photos! Your cat looks likes he might be bigger than the dogs!

[kelownagirl]

What beautiful dogs!!! And Mr. Kitty / Jazz looks just like my cat Zoe. What kind is he? I'll have to find a good picture of Angel, Gabe and Zoe....

[kelownagirl]

I haven't found any chamois butter around town yet but I do have some Walmart brand Simply Basic Coconut Butter. Looking at the ingredient list, it looks an awful lot like the stuff in the chamois butt'r etc. Anything jump out at you as a no-no for girly bits?

Shea butter, glycerin, sunflower oil, coconut oil, lanolin, perfume, and a bunch of scientific mumbo-jumbo... (that's probably where the bad stuff would be...)

Anyway, it seems nice and thick and glide-y. Of course, I've never tried the real stuff so what do I know....

I just tried my MTBike saddle onmy road bike, as well as Erik's two saddles, and none feel any better than mine. Guess I have to go down the the LBS and start trying out a bunch of new ones.

[dachshund]

bikerz, yes, Jazz is the biggest one!

kelownagirl, he's not a purebred, I know that much. I think this keeps his personality from being too crazy. Other than that I don't know exactly. Yes, you'll have to find some pictures of the clan. :)

[kelownagirl]

This is Zoe(cat) and Angel. Zoe is not happy that Angel is so close.

And the second shot is Gabe (chocolate lab) and Angel (golden retreiver).

I dont' know how to insert them into the post...

[Lise]

Great pix of beasties! I love the beasties. Angel appears to have a dashing little black mustache, or is that just the picture? Very sweet with the crossed paws, too. I love the pandacam. I forwarded it to my sister.

I am just about asleep at the keyboard, but wanted to pop in and say hi.

Today's my 46th birthday--I spent it all with my family. My brother and his fiancee (Soon to be Sister in Law) came to town (sort of the summer midwest tour--they're going up to her family on Sat). He took the train to my place, we fitted the Larkspur to him as best we could (he's 6' 2", I'm 5'8"), and took off. Rode down to Oak St. Beach for lunch with our Mom, then rode on south to about 30th, and turned around. He got a taste of it all: Small side streets, roller-derby dangerous north bike path, beautiful, peaceful south bike path, harrowing city traffic riding, and the long industrial corridor that is Elston Ave. 25 miles altogether. That ride has two big smells: Divine chocolate at Blommer's factory, and hideous leather tanning at ... somebody's leather factory.

We crashed here briefly, then mom, sister/niece/nephew/BIL, and STBSIL showed up. Pizza, salad, fruit tart, cupcakes, presents, chaos! All happy! Now all gone! I am so tired! Going to bed! Love to all, L.

[snapdragen]

Just came in from the back yard, Chloe had a very ambitious round of "oh a good stink on the lawn I must roll in it!" Of course, by the time I got my camera she didn't want to play any more. Then came inside where she played "greyhound running a race" in the hallway. Now she's passed out under my bed.

[Lise]

Chloe is the Corgi, right? They run sort of like dachshunds--they have no awareness that their legs are only 3" long.

As we rode today, my brother asked about the Larkspur, "Are you going to keep this bike?" I tried not to look shocked, and said, "Oh, absolutely." It was as if he said, "Are you going to keep both cats?" :eek: :rolleyes: What, I'm going to ... get rid of it? I think not! :D

PS, Nanci, love the fake blood poisoning! Hope the cut's not too bad.

PPS, Mr. Potential called this evening and wished me a happy birthday. What a sweet guy. Why is it I long for the not-nice-guys? :rolleyes: Good grief. MWBR, as always. L.

[snapdragen]

Yes, a corgi. She is so funny when she runs. She's quite fast really, and when she turns she makes this "huff" sound.

[Lise]

They are fast! So are the doxies! I know that "huff" sound, too! That's why I say "run like a dachshund". Run with absolutely no regard for any limitations or worries about how you look. Run with joy. :D

[maillotpois]

Happy birthday tomorrow LISE!!!!!

[Lise]

Happy birthday tomorrow LISE!!!!!
But it was today! OK! If you insist! I will celebrate tomorrow, as well! :D :p :D

[winddance]

Happy Birthday, Lise! Don't worry, you get a whole week to celebrate.

And for TD's viewing pleasure, my cats:

Mira, who was about 9 months in this picture. Her markings have become much darker. She's now 2.5 years old or so.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v317/winddance/cat/monkeycat.jpg

Ri (short for Orion) who is just as orange as ever...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v317/winddance/cat/rimousies.jpg

[snapdragen]

I am a dog person, but I love orange tabby cats! My neighbor used to have one named Little One. He'd sit on my shoulders whenever I was over her house.

[snapdragen]

Blisscotti

I bought some of these today at the grocery store. Vanilla bean ice cream layered between almond biscotti and dark chocolate. One word - OMG! So good. Expensive, and only two come in a box. I can never buy them again - they are both gone :o

http://www.blisscotti.com/site.html

[maillotpois]

But it was today! OK! If you insist! I will celebrate tomorrow, as well! :D :p :D


Oh man - I guess I totally misread it. Well, have an average day tomorrow and a spectacular day today - no wait!! Just have a great WEEK.

[maillotpois]

Blisscotti

I bought some of these today at the grocery store. Vanilla bean ice cream layered between almond biscotti and dark chocolate. One word - OMG! So good. Expensive, and only two come in a box. I can never buy them again - they are both gone :o

http://www.blisscotti.com/site.html


Ah - I saw those in the store the other day and did NOT buy them. Next time, it will be more difficult...

[snapdragen]

Ah - I saw those in the store the other day and did NOT buy them. Next time, it will be more difficult...

240 Calories each. :eek: How's that for a deterrent?

[Trek420]

They were handing those out at the Pride parade, I had some....one word Bliss. 240 calories would not stop me :sigh:

Dontcha think there a little close to the Its It idea?

www.itsiticecream.com/

To Bliscotti or Its Its? That is the question.

[maillotpois]

240 Calories each. :eek: How's that for a deterrent?


Like 28 million points, eh? Hmm. Not so great.

[winddance]

Ooh. Its Its are so good.

[dachshund]

kelownagirl, Who plays the Stratocaster?? I gotta ask.

lise, Happy Birthday!! In my family you can celebrate your birthday all month if you want. Just a suggestion.

[Trek420]

winddance "Ooh. Its Its are so good."

I like the mint ice cream ones....

[kelownagirl]

Happy birthday Lise! Hope you enjoyed the day - nice that Mr. P called.


kelownagirl, Who plays the Stratocaster?? I gotta ask.
.

Well it's not a real stratocaster, I have to admit. I play guitar but I tend to play my Fender acoustic much more than the electric. :)

Love all the pet pics! Especially the kitties... Too cute...

Angel's mustache - I had no idea, but you're right. I just looked at her and she does seem to have a bit of one. Not quite as pronounced as in that pic though....

[Nanci]

A friend of mine at work was showing me pics of her cats- 10 of them!!! Good thing they were all on one page...I was asking her how she was going to get them all to North Carolina when she moves in August, and she starts telling me which ones don't get along- it was so funny...

[crazycanuck]

Right,

Happy birfday lise!!! Did my parcel arrive yet??? Make that your birthday present!!!

Am feeling funky now...not sure exactly what was going on there but am ok now...I haven;'t ridden my bike for three days...:eek: I can't go tonight either as it's pouring outside...Harumph i say...
:mad:

The only animal i have has two legs & two arms & gives me kisses every day!

I really want an animal...The cats & dogggggiees you have are so cute!!! Must buy house first..

Good news or odd news for the day...OOPS.!!!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/5197042.stm

Oh yeah, here's more news from the Other side
http://www.news.com.au/otherside/?from=ninews_leftnav

ciao

c

[crazycanuck]

I was just watching SBS & there was a segment on the news about stem cell research & mr bush using his veto. They interviewed Michael J fox & it appears his parkinsons has worsened. What a waste of a good actor/person/father/son.

My uncle passed away a few years ago from parkinsons. Again what a waste of a good life.

c

[Nanci]

It's too bad about the veto...

I hope Houdini is ok!!! The trouble with these stories is you never find out the rest of the story! Interesting bandage.

[Lise]

From the Other Side: BAD NEWS - sleeping with a partner reduces men's brain power but strangely enough has no effect on women's mental agility.
Now I understand what happened with that guy from this spring! He got too stupid to keep dating me! :p

It's pouring rain here. Good news all around. Good for the earth, will no doubt cool off the air, and if it keeps up, the Cubs game will be rained out. Now, I love the Cubs. And I've been looking forward to going to the Cubs game with my brother, STBSIL, and mom for months. But I woke up tired and a bit sunburned from yesterday and thought: Oh thank goodness it's raining! :rolleyes: So if the rain stops, I'll be there for the 1:20 pitch. And if not, I'll be laying around the house! Woohoo!

CC-no package yet, but, as dachshund says, I can drag my birthday out all month!

[gringa loca]

How bout a Pisco Sour!??? :D

I vote for celebrating ALL month long!

[Trek420]

Is that calendar month? If your b'day happens mid month do you finish out the month or does she get till 08/19? :)

[Lise]

Gringa Loca! Cuando llegaste tu a Thread Drift?! Bien venida!
(Gringa Loca! When did you arrive in TD?! Welcome!)

Yeah, the Pisco...I quit that stuff many years ago, but have fond memories from Lima. They also drank beer mixed with Coke, which is not as repugnant as it sounds, according to my memory...which may have gotten quite fuzzy by now...

Let's say I celebrate all lunar month. That suits my poly-religionist, would-be pagan leanings. So I've got until...August 16. Sounds good to me! :D

[bikerz]

Happy Birthday Month, Lise!

I spent some time in Chile and Easter Island - the big drink there was pisco and punch/kool-aid - NASTY!


Hey - any bets on whether TD will hit 2,000 posts or 20,000 views first? I'm amazed at how often there are *almost exactly* 10 times as many views as posts.

[Lise]

Hey - any bets on whether TD will hit 2,000 posts or 20,000 views first? I'm amazed at how often there are *almost exactly* 10 times as many views as posts.
I have often pondered this myself. There are probably 5 of us who post here consistently, and another 5 who drop in to post a bit less regularly. But probably reading, if not always posting. So, there's 10 of us. At first I thought there was a school of lurkers out there (and there may be), but now I think it's mostly "us" doing the reading. 10 reads per post sounds about right. It is odd, though, how it is consistently read to a factor of 10, eh?

[maillotpois]

On the posts versus views - I think a lot of times I end up scrolling back and forth in the pages to catch up or remind myself of things folks have said. Maybe each of those scroll backs is a separate "view"?

Wow - I had to stop watching the Tour because I have a court conference call. So bummed - the stage was so exciting. I hate to stop watching. Stupid court. :mad:

Lisa - you definitely must celebrate for the whole week, if not the month. DH has started asking me what I want to do for my birthday, which isn't til December, but it is a "big" one (40). I am trying to sell a trip to France for the Tour next year.....

[Nanci]

Or, next year is a PBP year!!

My friend that is attempting the Death Valley Cup is out there for Badwater now- it starts Monday...(There are only 10 DVC finishers, ever!!) Want me to send you his updates??

http://www.badwater.com/

[Grog]

Hey Lise!!!

Happy Birthday!

Can I wish you a cute, caring and strong cyclist ? :D

[Nanci]

As the resident cootchie expert, so to speak, there is someone up in New Riders that needs an expert opinion!!

[Lise]

As the resident cootchie expert, so to speak, there is someone up in New Riders that needs an expert opinion!!
On my way, BatGirl!-----------------> zoom!

[Lise]

Can I wish you a cute, caring and strong cyclist ? :DYou know you can, sister!

:D :p :D

dreams can come true, it can happen to you....

[Nanci]

I am really resisting posting any comments about the New Rider Situation- RESIST>>>RESIST!!!

Ok, what fur???

And, the TINGLING is one of the BENEFITS!!

[Denise223]

I'm an occasional lurker here.....


posted by Nanci -- And, the TINGLING is one of the BENEFITS!!


You can say that again ;) !! Wonderful extra treat!

You ladies crack me up.

Happy Birthday Lise :) .. BTW, what is in your precious dachsund's mouth??
Looks like a banana, on fire....

Have a wonderful day everyone.

Denise

[Nanci]

That's a bandana around its neck. I used to always wonder what it was, then one day I figured it out, but then promptly forgot, but knew I had once known. That really bothered me. Then, months later, someone else said what it was, and now it's committed to memory permanently.

Tingly _and_ smells great!

[Trek420]

Nanci "And, the TINGLING is one of the BENEFITS!!"

plus you can use it for minty cupcake frosting :D

[Eden]

Nanci "And, the TINGLING is one of the BENEFITS!!"

plus you can use it for minty cupcake frosting :D

mmm yummm - someone at the STP year suggested a good conversation starter might be: You ride up to a total stranger, pull the butt butter pak out of your jersey pocket, and say in a loud vioce," I'm complaining to Cascade, this is the worst energy gel I've ever had."

[maillotpois]

Or, next year is a PBP year!!

My friend that is attempting the Death Valley Cup is out there for Badwater now- it starts Monday...(There are only 10 DVC finishers, ever!!) Want me to send you his updates??

http://www.badwater.com/


Yes on the updates - that would be cool.

PBP is probably too much money... I would love to, though. But I think I would prefer riding in the Alps again to PBP. I do want to do a 1200k, I just don't know if I want to make it the focus of a trip.

[Nanci]

I personally have no interest in PBP, or even BMB for that matter. I might like the Florida 1200k, some year.

$400 entry fee (BMB) yeah right.

[Nanci]

I sent you the first e-mail, which has three pics attached. He says there is _another_ Floridian attempting the Death Valley Cup! (There are five from Florida entered in Badwater this year).

I remember last year, I was following him on the webcast, and he dropped out of sight (on line) and didn't move, and didn't move- for hours!! I gave up, thought he DNF'd, but he was resting/cooling in a hotel, I think, and resumed running and finished. I was so excited!!

[Nanci]

Be sure not to miss Snap's post in Go Floyd Go or whatever it is up in Open.

[Nanci]

I have to tear myself away from all the queefing and assne to take the pets outside...But it's difficult!!

[Lise]

Be sure not to miss Snap's post in Go Floyd Go or whatever it is up in Open.Nanci--I'm so grateful you scan the posts and tell us what to go read! I would miss some great ones if not for you. I loved that post of Snap's!

...and....CUBS WIN! Yep, the rain stopped, I rode my bike the 1.5 miles to Wrigley Field, and watched a great game against the Astros. I did commit a grievous error, though. I locked my bike (the Larkspur) to signpost across the street from the ballpark. I could barely unlock the thing afterwards. It was in the middle of an stopable river of semi-drunken Cubs fans pouring down the sidewalk. Actually a little scary. Next time I'll park a block away on a side street.

It's 79% with 72% humidity, and 8 mph wind. The streets are slick from humidity. I'm contemplating riding to VB anyway. This cycling thing is addictive, did'j'a notice?

[chickwhorips]

lise i know i'm a day late and a dollar short, as always, but happy birthday! :)

though if you are celebrating a month of it, then i'm right on time!

[maillotpois]

I personally have no interest in PBP, or even BMB for that matter. I might like the Florida 1200k, some year.

$400 entry fee (BMB) yeah right.


I'm not even thinking so much about the ride fee, as the travel costs and lodging - all for one bike ride (granted the most epic ever) - when for that amount of money you could really have a great vacation and explore the country in a less crazy fashion. If I want to ride my bike in France again, I want to go to the Alps and Provence, not the area where PBP goes.

I would do that 1200k that is closer to here so I didn't have to travel so much. We'll do 1200, both of us, one of these days.

[kelownagirl]

Oh my, you ladies have been busy today! And me wasting time riding my bike when I could have been reading about queefing.... What a choice!

Is there any way to add on 50km to my Cateye computer? I forgot the darn thing when I went out on my ride and I'm kind of anal when it comes to recording my km. Now my Bikejournal page and my computer are out of sync...

I tried using the Coconut butter today as a chamois cream. Seemed to work ok but I think my crotch smells like a Pina Colada...:eek:

I loved watching Floyd this morning. Worth getting up early....

We have a heat wave just beginning. Supposed to be up to 41-42 degrees by the weekend. Not sure what that is in US-ease but I know it's over a 100. I think I'm going to have to plan to climb Anarchist Mountain (or Antichrist Mt as I like to call it) at 5 am next week so I don't get too overheated. I may have to do it alone since Erik's not big on getting up and at 'em that early.

Someone please tell me that the extra 3 lbs I've gained in the past 2 weeks is all muscle..... :rolleyes:

[dachshund]

kelownagirl, it's all muscle. :)

It's going to be over 100 degrees in my part of California (Kaleefornia, to Ms. Governator :D ) I'll probably have to find some movies to watch, use their air conditioning.

I work in downtown San Francisco, and I decided today that I'm over those Start Trek looking bluetooth earphones. I thought they looked cool at first, but now people look incredibly geeky wearing them. I've only seen one that's small enough that it doesn't look like really ugly jewelry. So there.

Lise, any dates on the horizon? Huh, huh?

And corgis rock!

[chickwhorips]

it hit 61* here today.ah yes the nice cool breeze. :cool:

no 100* here. no-siree-bob! just comfy weather.

[Veronica]

...one bike ride (granted the most epic ever) - when for that amount of money you could really have a great vacation and explore the country in a less crazy fashion. If I want to ride my bike in France again, I want to go to the Alps and Provence, not the area where PBP goes.



But your name goes in THE BOOK. I'm thinking about it...I just want my name in the book.

Of course just touring around France has a wicked lot of appeal too. :D

V.

[snapdragen]

it hit 61* here today.ah yes the nice cool breeze. :cool:

no 100* here. no-siree-bob! just comfy weather.

Another reason why I love Alaska....

[Nanci]

Can you say torrential rain? Standing water in the yard, the thunder just made the kitchen light fixture fall off, and now the electricity went out so I probably can't post...(We need the rain...)

[Nanci]

The water is up to the rim of my truck wheel now...I was going to go out and play in the rain, because it looked fun, so I took off my pajamas, and put on different pajamas, that I didn't care if they got wet, and took off my watch, and put a towel in front ot the back door, and stepped out onto the back steps, and was instantly drenched and frozen!! And came back in. Bad idea!!

[gringa loca]

Gringa Loca! Cuando llegaste tu a Thread Drift?! Bien venida!
(Gringa Loca! When did you arrive in TD?! Welcome!)
I've been known to find my way to the "fun group" :)



Yeah, the Pisco...I quit that stuff many years ago, but have fond memories from Lima. They also drank beer mixed with Coke, which is not as repugnant as it sounds, according to my memory...which may have gotten quite fuzzy by now...

My hubby drinks beer and orange fanta....I can't even try it yuck!!!! But we now buy Pisco quite regularly..yummy pisco sours!


I like the lunar idea! Enjoy!

[maillotpois]

But your name goes in THE BOOK. I'm thinking about it...I just want my name in the book.

Of course just touring around France has a wicked lot of appeal too. :D

V.


Hey! Welcome back!

Seriously, touring around France does not suck. Watching so much of these great places on TV right now really makes me want to go. I may as well start listening to the language CDs again, just in case some miracle occurs and we can go next year....

And PBP, I don't know - if I'm in France I really would rather drink a lot of wine and eat cheese. None of which is endurance cycling fare.

[maillotpois]

The water is up to the rim of my truck wheel now...I was going to go out and play in the rain, because it looked fun, so I took off my pajamas, and put on different pajamas, that I didn't care if they got wet, and took off my watch, and put a towel in front ot the back door, and stepped out onto the back steps, and was instantly drenched and frozen!! And came back in. Bad idea!!


So it is cold rain?? Wild! Well, stay inside. We don't want you hit by lightning or washed away.

[Veronica]

Hey! Welcome back!

Seriously, touring around France does not suck.

Yeah.. I've been seriously bit by the touring bug. Nova Scotia was just SO cool, even riding in the rain doesn't suck when you've got the right gear on and you're not camping that night. :D

Probably won't get to go again this summer. Work is getting busy for Thom and I've got a little thing called a double to get ready for. I'm thinking I may just go ride parts of the course during the week, so I can spend the weekends with my honey. I think pulling 55 - 70 pounds around for two and a half weeks has been good training though. I swear I got stronger as the trip went on.

Where are you going to be volunteering?

V.

[Eden]

I tacked this onto one of my replies to the saying hi thread, but I know a lot of the Seattle gals look here so repost:

BTW - through the end of track season (last week in August) I will be riding out to Marymoor every Wednesday going one way to the velodrome. (the hubby is announcing track racing). If anyone is interested in joining me I leave my house around 5:30 / 6 which puts me on the BG about 10 or 15 min later. Spectating is free on Wednesdays and I could give you a ride home if you wanted to stay and watch the races (its dark by the time racing is over - around 10pm). Rain cancels the track racing so I don't go if it is rainy.

[snapdragen]

My teef hurt. I went in for my 6 month cleaning, for some reason I had an unusual amount of tartar.

scrape, scrape, scrape

Owwwwwwwwww:(

I was going to fix myself a nice steak for dinner. Instead I had pasta, nice soft pasta.

[winddance]

Ow!

I hate the polish stuff, and the sound of the scraping. I also hate sitting there forever with my mouth open...

I don't like going to the dentist. I know I've got a 6 month appointment coming up, too... :(

[Lise]

Nothing like the thought of another root canal to keep me going to the dentist on a regular basis. My dentist seems to enjoy his work, like a good mechanic does. I appreciate that about him.

Tonight I rode to volleyball, played a hot and frustrating 2 hours, ate some dinner with my pals, and rode home. Realized I love riding at night. It's the one way I can be out, alone, at night, and not afraid. The city has recently repaved some streets in the neighborhood, and the asphalt's in mint condition. So I rode right past my building and around another several blocks. It's a beautiful evening, not too hot, and I'm wearing my favorite tri t-shirt, the only 50/50 cotton/poly one I've ever gotten. If I'm ever involved with putting on a tri, you'd better know our t-shirts will be 50/50!

V, good to have you back.

Dachshund, I meant to tell you that your long-haired pup is quite the beauty.

MP, how's your medical status?

Dates...none on the horizon right now. Working at the clinic tomorrow, then at night I'm going to a reunion of the group of midwives with whom I worked for 9 years. It should be emotional and wonderful. Then my niece's 3rd birthday--two days of celebration there, and, of course, what weekend would be complete without working a night shift on Sunday night?!?

I am reading Wicked--it is so good. I just want to stay home and read!

[Veronica]

I am reading Wicked--it is so good. I just want to stay home and read!

Let me know what you think of it when you're done. I read it last year some time. It made me want to reread The Wizard of Oz.

Right now I'm reading a Phillip Pullman book - The Ruby in the Smoke. I think it will be a good book to add to my classroom library. I really enjoyed his Golden Compass series. This is different, but well written and interesting

V.

[Lise]

Happy Birthday Lise :) .. BTW, what is in your precious dachsund's mouth?? Looks like a banana, on fire....
Just in case Denise lurks back here...

That's not actually my doxie. It's a picture Snapdragen found for me as an avatar when I joined here. We've seen the big version of the picture (it's a dog running in a dachshund race, if you can imagine such a thing!), and decided that it is a yellow bandana.

Here's a link to pix of Schatzi, our doxie who lived to be 19. The English Setter is our other pup, Annie. Time frame: We got Schatzi when I was 7 (1967), so she died in '86. Haven't had another doxie since, but they sure do live in my heart!

http://s64.photobucket.com/albums/h187/lisecnm/

[snapdragen]

Right now I'm reading a Phillip Pullman book - The Ruby in the Smoke. I think it will be a good book to add to my classroom library. I really enjoyed his Golden Compass series. This is different, but well written and interesting

V.

I liked the Golden Compass series. I'll check out The Ruby in the Smoke.

[Lise]

I was longing for something like The Golden Compass when I picked up Wicked. It's fitting the bill nicely. I hear there's a sequel. Good to know about the Ruby book. I'll get to it when I'm done with the Wicked ones. I can't tell you...well, it's you guys, I don't need to tell you, you get it...how much a good book saves my sanity sometimes.

[KnottedYet]

Happy Birthday Lunar Month!!!!!

[snapdragen]

The sequel to Wicked didn't get very good reviews. I've not read it (the sequel) so I don't know. The Ugly Stepsister is good - a retelling of Cinderella.

[Lise]

The sequel to Wicked didn't get very good reviews. I've not read it (the sequel) so I don't know. Alas, so it often goes with sequels, right?

I had my first bad dream about triathlon. I came out of the water, ran to transition...didn't have any bike shorts to put on, had forgotten to get my race number...by the time I got on the bike, it turned out it was a trail race, and my front tire blew up on the trail...I changed the tube, but didn't have a pump...etc. My first DNF. :o

And, that said, now I'm off to run!

[Nanci]

I just saw a story about Houdini (the snake, yesterday, who ate his electric blanket and had surgery to remove it). He looks great! It showed him all laid out on the operating table (12 feet long!) and then, the next day, recovering, crawling on the floor and on the tech or vet holding him. What a sweetie. His owner said he never asked how much the surgery (never done before!) would cost- he just knew he had to do anything to save his snake...

[crazycanuck]

I often have weird dreams about biking...especially after eating pizza...:confused:

Anywho, the Perth mtb club had some new & spiffy jerseys for sale & they arrived today. I'm not so sure about my jersey as it's a bit tight in the sleeves. I'll try it on again & perhaps i can trade with someone.

I'll post a pic when i have said jersey on & biking.

Has anyone seen the film Jindabyne? I'm not sure if the film has hit your theatres or has already left but will welcome any information.

I think i'm off to read more of the book i'm currently delved into...

c

[DirtDiva]

Happy birthday Lise!!!

[Denise223]

Lise -

I had to look real close, then I could make out that it was a yellow bandana on the adorable doxie :) !

Your Schatzi & Annie were adorable furdogs :D ! I love the pic of them playing tug of war.... Very cute!


Originally posted by Lise: Haven't had another doxie since, but they sure do live in my heart!

That's where they will always stay, too -- right in your heart.

Hope everyone is having a great day!

Denise

[Grog]

I often have weird dreams about biking...especially after eating pizza...:confused:

Different cheeses are thought to induce different dreams.... That could be the cause!!

[Nanci]

I wonder what cheese you're supposed to eat for a sex dream...

[KnottedYet]

or a bike dream?

[maillotpois]

Yeah.. I've been seriously bit by the touring bug. Nova Scotia was just SO cool, even riding in the rain doesn't suck when you've got the right gear on and you're not camping that night. :D

Probably won't get to go again this summer. Work is getting busy for Thom and I've got a little thing called a double to get ready for. I'm thinking I may just go ride parts of the course during the week, so I can spend the weekends with my honey. I think pulling 55 - 70 pounds around for two and a half weeks has been good training though. I swear I got stronger as the trip went on.

Where are you going to be volunteering?

V.

I will be a roving SAG - I am sure they will give me a specific part of the course to cover. But roving is going to be fun.

If you are riding in Marin during the week, let me know what days. I often work at home. It would be great to say hi - maybe grab lunch or a coffee or something.

If I were you, I'd do the first part of the course from Miller Creek and then cut back over Pt. Reyes-Petaluma Rd. If you want me to do you up a map, I'd be happy to.

[maillotpois]

MP, how's your medical status?


Finally showing some good results in the blood tests (indicating that the anti-coagulants are working which helps the clots in the lungs to go away), so that is good. Frankly, I feel better than I have in months, and can actually breathe normally during exercise, which I really was struggling with since April.

I see a pulmonologist Monday so that will be good. I want to see if I can be moved to the 3 months of anti-coagulants category from 6 months because that would allow me to start riding sooner. But I will do whatever these folks say. This is just a speed bump.

Lise - BUMMER on the root canal! I hate those! Maybe they will give you good drugs? Ask for the nitrous oxide anyway.

[Lise]

Ah, no! No root canal on the horizon! Just three in the past. I am diligent about the 6 month dentist visits now. Glad to hear the anti-coags are doing their job.

If anyone can figure out what cheese will bring on a sex dream, it's our Nanci. And I know she'll share her info! :p

[maillotpois]

Ah - I totally misunderstood.

I'm with you on that, though. I had 4 RCs - 3 of them within one year. That's enough to keep me VERY diligent about seeing the dentist.

[Veronica]

Annie's mac and Cheese... yummy stuff. Quick and easy too.

V.

[maillotpois]

OH - that is Em's favorite dinner! I'm having tomato soup. Trying to eat less. Practicaly trying to eat nothing. Oh well!

[maillotpois]

I'm working at home, at the dining room table. I started hearing a really creepy wheezy whistling noise and couldn't figure out WHAT it was. Scared the bejeezus out of me.

It is my cat. Snoring.

[chickwhorips]

what's annie's mac and cheese?

i didn't know cats snored. one of my old puppies snored so loud you would've thought it was a human snoring!

[maillotpois]

what's annie's mac and cheese?

i didn't know cats snored. one of my old puppies snored so loud you would've thought it was a human snoring!


Annie's is healthy, natural pastas, etc.: http://www.annies.com/

My cat's a bit fat. So he snores.

[dachshund]

That's hilarious!


<--- Chili Dog snores, big time.

[maillotpois]

Chili dog?!?! Now that's hilarious!

[chickwhorips]

yup its lunch time everything is sounding good to eat.

[Veronica]

I like tomato soup, but it's too hot here. I think my metabolism has increased since the start of the year. I eat, and I'm hungry an hour later. I'm holding out for a couple of chocolate chip cookies and a frappicino in an hour or so.

Are you still doing your spin class? How's the hiking?

V.

[dachshund]

:cool:

He was named after the Chili Palmer character in "Get Shorty". Now he has all the obvious nick-names, along with Chili Bob, which came from an impromptu "Waltons... Goodnight John Boy" routine. He now responds to the name "Bob".

[maillotpois]

Are you still doing your spin class? How's the hiking?

V.

Kinda took a hiatus from spin this week, because I go to the early class and there was this matter of having to watch the live coverage of some very exciting stages of some bike race that took priority... :D I'll start up again next week and am also putting the rain bike on the trainer downstairs.

The hiking/running thing is good. I wish the Dipsea trail didn't have such a big wash out. Oh well. There are just so many great trails I can get to easily. And I think Stacy might join me in an actual trail running event sometime this fall. How's that for loyalty? I ditch her for the 508, but she'll come do some silly run with me. Nice!!

Yeah, the soup was a little hot for here, too, but it was filling!! Chasing it with a diet Barq's, which is very cold!!!

[dachshund]

Sarah,

One thing I don't get with the Tour is that Floyd seems to be doing a lot by himself. Is this because he's just so strong sometimes that his own team can't keep up with him?

thanks, Amy

[maillotpois]

Well, he's had some problems with his team. Perdiguero would have been expected to stay with him in the mountains, but crashed. I find it absolutely amazing and wonderful how Axel Merckx has pulled himself together to stay with Floyd on some of these stages. Axel has never been a super great stage rider, more of a rouleur on the flats. But he dug deep and I was just so impressed. He's also got Nicolas Jalabert, who is a very solid rider.

Interesting, both Merckx and Jalabert both have family who are much more accomplished cyclists that they ever turned out to be. I wonder if they ever talk about that?

Anyway, I think the team has performed well in the flatter stages, and they really worked great yesterday, setting him up for the launch. I think they've done the best they could. Other teams, like T Mobile, have much more depth in terms of having a lot of very strong riders. But T Mobile's tactics consistently SUCK. They just can't get it right. CSC has both a strong team and a decent tactician - yesterday was the only time I have EVER hoped that Jens Voight wouldn't close a gap! :cool:

[dachshund]

Thanks!

It's cool to watch Floyd do so well while "staying seated". :) I know he can't stand much because of his hip. I can't either because of my back, so it's satisfying to watch him bomb along with all the other guys cringing and flailing away.

His coach is awful cute. I'm surprised that the "boy watchers" here haven't mentioned that. :p (Maybe they did and I didn't catch it.)

[kelownagirl]

Well, he's had some problems with his team. Perdiguero would have been expected to stay with him in the mountains, but crashed. I find it absolutely amazing and wonderful how Axel Merckx has pulled himself together to stay with Floyd on some of these stages. Axel has never been a super great stage rider, more of a rouleur on the flats. But he dug deep and I was just so impressed. He's also got Nicolas Jalabert, who is a very solid rider.

Interesting, both Merckx and Jalabert both have family who are much more accomplished cyclists that they ever turned out to be. I wonder if they ever talk about that.

I'd like to add that Axel's wife is from Kelowna so I always keep a pretty close eye him during the tdf. Kind of nice that he has a bigger profile this year. Today I rode the route that he usually does when he's here. Of course he probably does it twice as fast as me... :o

[chickwhorips]

His coach is awful cute. I'm surprised that the "boy watchers" here haven't mentioned that. :p (Maybe they did and I didn't catch it.)

i dont think they mentioned it, but i noticed that too. i like when he's interviewed, though have a hard time paying attention to what hes saying. ;)