You are currently browsing the monthly archive for December, 2007.
It was a great year on several levels. I’m thankful for so much – mostly because it was a year of good health and safety.
The year rang in with a big bang at the girlfriend’s house — with the kids — and we keep rocking from there. While I didn’t take a “formal” vacation during the year, I did take time out to travel to races and to South Carolina for a long weekend. I visited my dad – and mom – and was in Arkansas three times this year but didn’t see my family who live there.
I put 37,000 miles on my car, 12,349 miles on my bicycle(s), and flew several times for business with untold miles. What else? I should have counted the Sam Adams beers I consumed (ha!). The numbers are really funny – especially when you think about a full year. Numbers can take you just about anywhere. Nuf said.
I visited Tremont today and enjoyed my journey through Townsend into and out of the National Park. The photo and movie are just down from the Institute’s office. Happy New Year.
Some flowers are what the doctor ordered up – since it was raining and cold and not very pretty outside for most of the day.
The flower pictured here is a Plumeria ‘red’ from the island of Oahu. Beautiful? Smells even better than it looks. Wow. Capture and bottle that smell and you’ve got a winner throughout the year. I actually bought some Plumeria oil on Kauai some years ago. And occasionally I put some on my wrist to remind me of what I love about the Plumeria – its wonderful fragrance.
As we get close to the new year – 2008 – let’s fill it with the best smells, tastes, happiness and abundant joy that is around us. Choosing to allow those things in our lives is easy – it’s about choice.
Aloha.
I got up this morning and looked outside to see a random dog had “nested” (no other word describes what I saw) at the very back of my property – just under a Leyland Cypress where my neighbor’s yard borders mine. The dry grass clippings, now very brown, were the ‘bed.’
I usually look outside on Saturday morning very early to determine who kind of clothing I’m going to need for my ride. Naturally the random dog stood out like a skinny Santa on Madison Avenue. I opened the door – yelled at dog and it lazily got up and started moving. What was really bad – the dog’s testicles were hanging at least a foot below it’s belly. Something was definitely wrong with the random dog. This started my day.
Ok then. I got going and traveled a back road to Six Mile. To my surprise, along Piney Flats Road, a large German Shepard is blocking the road. As I roll toward the dog, it barks violently and turns its head down. At that moment I asked a question out loud, “did random dog send out a nasty gram in my honor?” Never mind the fact that three dogs chased me PRIOR to Mr. German Shepard. HUH? What, did these dogs get Viagra for Christmas – or a special dog nip!
I called the police on my cell phone while I walked my bike past the dog – with camera in hand to capture the insanity …
Alright – I continue down the road … and head toward Monroe County – turning on Highway 72 and circle back to Highway 129 – just so I know the distance from Big Gully Road to 129 (it’s 3.1 miles). I back track down 72 and head toward Knox County. When I reach Highway 411 (near Lenoir City) I meet up with four biking buddies that I know. Coincidentally this was the right time to circle back and head toward home. I need 100 miles and that was my turning point – and that’s certainly enough for a Saturday ride.
One of my buddies said he would show me an alternate route back to Maryville and so we split off from the other guys and headed into town via Niles Ferry. With a couple of switch backs through a neighborhood here and there we found ourselves nearing the Maryville Greenway.
I recognized the roads at that point and had a clear understanding of my route home. As we ascend a small hill, Trent (my buddy that I’m following) says, “left turn.” Ok. Left turn. I look back and see a car coming at me — and slow down to a crawl — then when I believe the driver is aware that we’re making a left turn I lead the turn and expect Trent to follow me.
Nope. The driver didn’t stop. In fact, as I’m turning left I see the car (it was red) coming at me and so I stand up on the peddles to brace for the impact. I hear a terrific screech of tires and then I feel the energy of the car shuttering though my left leg. The distance between the stopped car and my left leg was less than 2″.
The noun, “close call,” was what I experienced today. So f’ing close that I’m counting it as a true accident. Trent talked about it for the next 10 miles and nothing else. During the red-car-encounter, he was watching with (as he says), “an open mouth … unable to say anything.”
Even the cars approaching from the opposite way were stopped and dumbfounded that the red car coming at me, DIDN’T hit me.
I was literally on the yellow line turning left when the red car was trying to pass me/us to go around. WTF. How CRAZY is that? I’m turning left and a car behind me attempts to go around us while we’re turning. Has the human race lost its ability to think and operate motor vehicles concurrently?
The woman was shaken and very upset. Trent went up to her and politely said, “that’s why you don’t pass on a double yellow line.”
I blew her a kiss and THANKED her for not hitting me.
Something bigger than the woman kept me from getting nailed. I’m convinced of it. Shall we say, ‘whew.’
Be safe out there.
And it was here in Maryville as well. Rainy – gloomy and gray. It poured at times and others it drizzled as if the sky was reloading or something like that (ha). I sought brighter skies and more pleasant thoughts of basking in the sun – even getting sunburned! Ah – now that actually sounds nice (just a little burn – nothing serious).
I’ve attached two photos from the Big Island of Hawai’i. Yep, Hawai’i. The first is from a famous and highly visited waterfall named “Rainbow Falls.” Along the Wailuku River, the Rainbow Falls area is part of a Hawai’i State Park. So – no taking water back to the mainland. Although beautiful to observe, it’s a dangerous diving, swimming and wading area.
Therefore, pull out the camera and snap some shots for those rainy, gloomy and gray days of late December, January and February.
Aloha.
I bought a new flag today – an American flag. When I was shopping at Lowe’s I noticed their selection and picked out a nice embroidered flag that should last for a couple of years. Of course, I bought painting supplies, lights, bulbs, tape, and several things not on my list. The to-do list just got longer.
I had a Tennessee state flag but it was literally ripped off the flag pole and I’ve not found it yet. Oh well. It was faded and worn.
The photo for today is an American flag flying over the Arizona Memorial. This shot is really interesting because it captures a portion of the Memorial itself and the flag at a full rip. The Memorial is open and allows wind, rain, snow (no, just kidding) and other elements like birds to engage with the site. Seems like the wind is constantly howling in the Harbor (Pearl Harbor).
I’ve been so locked down with chores today that I didn’t get an opportunity to photograph my new flag. I will photograph it once the blue skies return. We’re likely to get some rain tomorrow – so I’ll wait.
Aloha.
Yep. The weather was beautiful and warm. The photo for today was taken on top of Diamond Head and the view from atop is 360° with nothing to obstruct your view. I took this shot looking down on Waikiki and you clearly see Honolulu looming like the major city she is – and then some.
I road today (to the bridge) and back – about 30 miles – and thought about the Islands. A lot. Shorty-short today. Peace out.
Leaving home I noticed the Foothills were a little darker than those over Townsend. The clouds spelled rain but I didn’t hesitate, I pulled out and keep moving. Good thing. If I had waited I would have stayed inside and ridden the trainer. Heck I was in such a hurry to get to Tremont that I took my sandwich and ate while I rode the bike.
I’ve attached (can you believe it?) a photo of Tremont that I took today when I stopped for a snack. The ride over was brisk and damp. Mostly I saw a beautiful gray colored sky with the mountains strong and outspoken. The thought of visiting my personal mecca seemed like a nice “from me – to me” gift today.
The road on the way to Tremont (just off the Parkway to Cades Cove) is like a private street, following the creek the entire distance. I road without my iPod and really soaked up the sounds as much as the sites. Ok – so when I left Tremont it was lightly snowing – then I felt the unmistakable sting of sleet. Yep – it started sleeting. Burr. That meant one thing, it was going to rain and I needed to tempo-ride back home. At that point I put it on the big ring and cranked. I don’t mind cold. But I do not like cold and wet. There’s no fun in cold and wet.
The other photo is an ‘out-building’ taken at Tremont. There were several woodcutting devices in the vicinity and logg-ege as well. Looks like firewood a-plenty.
Best get on with Sammy-Sam here and enjoy Christmas with Amy and the kids – Petter and Mary Grace.
Happy Holidays.
Another great day of riding – along the back roads of Blount County. Just three doggies out today keeping me fast and to the point – moving. I found it difficult to let go of and totally forget about work – it’s been crazy-busy and full stress these last few weeks. Normally when I ride I can just zone out and soak up sites. Not today.
I realized that several people were gone before I had the opportunity to say, “Happy Holidays.” DJ, Ames, Toe, Cave and Kymmy-Kym. It was a fast ‘last day’ of the week with lots of people scrambling to finish up and get gone. Peace to all. Thanks for being so friendly and authentic. Merry Christmas … and Happy Holidays.
I stopped and took the attached photos at the end of the day near sunset. It was a beautiful finish to a productive and exciting day. Lots of miles along the back roads – a few doggies – some nice sun my face – quiet roads – moderate temps and no flats. Good day. Peace out.
The Big Island is calling – the island known as Hawai’i. I’m truly excited. With just 12 days on Hawai’i I am hoping to truly explore the best of the best. I’ll scratch the surface I’m certain. Why can’t I just stay two full weeks and make it so? Hum, that’s the best the idea I’ve heard today. Twelve days isn’t a vacation – it’s “time away.” With less than fourteen, we’re not doing justice to the loving Pacific and the Aloha of Hawai’i.
I’ve included a photo of Pali Pass just to give us the touch of green.
Peace out.
Over Oahu the clouds often roll in from the mountains mid-island and out toward Honolulu. When I was last on Oahu I took this panoramic photo – just before the storm hit Honolulu.
I attempted to print this photo today at Kinko’s. What a mistake. I really need to visit Thompson Photo and obtain a “Light Jet” print. Rather costly but truly the exact replica of the image captured. When I return to office-duty the first of January I’ll attempt to learn how the process works.
I’m working on my 2008 Growth Plan next week (personal) and it includes the creation of a new Gallery in my home. I’ve not added to the walls in a very long time. With over 55 pieces of automotive art in the garage (I’ve got 2,100 sq ft), it feels like a gallery – not a garage. I’ve mounted halogen lights (track) and several neon lights. Just for fun I placed some of my grandmother’s Christmas lights for a little extra color. Upstairs I’ve framed mostly oil paintings and a LeRoy Neiman signed & numbered print, “Pebble Beach” (which I’ve played three times). I also have several large panorama’s I’ve photographed – the largest of which is 50″ taken at Brasstown Bald in north Georgia.
Rambling here, but so many thoughts stem from the photo called, “Storm brewing over the Diamond.” As in Diamond Head. The original file is over 10,000 pixels wide and is 34mb. I hope the Light Jet print will look outstanding and my framing option is coming from “The Great Frameup” where you make the frame yourself. Aloha.
I intended on visiting Mecca (aka The Institute at Tremont) twice today. The original plan was to travel to Tremont – home again – then back to Tremont – then home again. 84 miles in all. I arrived home after the first trip and elected to call it a day.
I suspect the week’s work pace took a lot out of me mentally and thus physically. I’ll ride the same route tomorrow if it’s not raining. No worries – I miscalculated the mileage for the weeks of Base 1. I need to ride 200 miles in Base 1 – so a 40 or 50 mile Saturday and the same for Sunday are all that’s required. In Base 2 and 3 the mileage will increase.
Ahh, that felt better.
The photo for today was taken looking toward the bridge – but up in the air toward the mountains. Mecca felt great today.
And the story says, on a bright Hawaiian Christmas day, the island greeting is what they say.
“May-lay-ka-lee-key-ma-ka” translates to Merry Christmas in Hawaiian. The sun to shine by day and all the stars at night. From the land where palm trees sway – let’s get on the plane and get our happy asses there – like – To-DAY!
Aloha.
… and I’ll get back with you.” When I hear this message, I recognize what’s up: potential for disaster.
And it’s getting bad for all of us in the business world. What’s up? When a sender encodes a message it has a meaning to that person(s). Then we send it – the receiver decodes the message and based on their frame of mind – they interpret the message. I envision big gaps between “intention” and “interpretation.” The fact is, email has lulled us into a world where we fill “connected” and happy that we are communicating so quickly.
Some people use email so they don’t have to deal with a topic nor a person. Umm. That’s interesting. Email is the chicken-shit way out of telling someone the facts. We see it as a method of speeding along the message process and in turn give up the personable connection that voice and voice/face deliver. What we’re doing is minimizing personal accountability. Face-to-face – or connected by phone, we’re more likely to tackle issues, interpret messages more clearly and indeed (the angels pipe in here), connect.
Recently a long time friend, now the lead at a company we’re about to work with, sent me an email that I misunderstood. Naturally, I wrote back and the spiral of doom continued from there. When the last email rang up with, “the worst case scenario is that we’ll be good friends and help you find another vendor …” – I punched the buttons on the phone faster than you can say “email me.”
Even in my office I’ve noticed that account managers are sending creative work to clients and then corresponding with those clients via email as thought they were discussing something benign like pencil production. Is that appropriate? NOPE. How often do we see minor comments interpreted as curt or rude?
Even more – how often do we weigh in on those emails with more crap only to dig the hole deeper. I for one believe we need to pick up the phone – or better yet – get our happy asses up and out of the office — then go visit the person with whom we’re communicating. Problem solved.
Face-time is underrated and I believe in 2008 there will be mega-more face-time among my colleagues. Even if it’s just to talk about email.
I thought that Christmas was about giving of yourself. Giving gifts that required something more than a credit card or a phone call. But NO – I’m caught up in the crappity-crap-crap of shopping online and gift cards. I’m “making” very few gifts this year. So few that I’m disappointed in my efforts.
This morning I talked with a colleague about “Christmas past.” (That’s interesting in itself.) He said, “Prior to the industrial revolution people took time out to make gifts appropriate to the person. Mom knitted a much needed sweater – or dad might make a sled for his son using his wood working tools – or grandmother made candles for her daughter so she could read at night.” Interesting. The mental connectedness of the creator and the gift were powerful. Gifts had meaning and there wasn’t a “return-me” option. How simple and authentic does that feel!
Earlier this week our office received another (the fifth so far) basket of treats. Chocolate, candy, popcorn, crackers and cheese, nuts of all kinds, gourmet sauces and dips, crappy cookies, Chex mix, coffees, and a lot of other goodies that translate into one word: calories.
There wasn’t a visible card.
I didn’t see any notion of ownership except for the WIVK nut tin. Other than that – we had lots of calories without any clue as to “who” and “why.” The goodies were just there. The “food” was eaten quickly and without regard to nutritional content.
Then at the end of the day I received a card from some friends. In my name, they gave a contribution to FISH Hospitality Pantries. Umm. The “gift” felt genuine and very authentic. In reality it felt like friendship. I was so surprised at the card because it was unexpected.
Little do they know that I’m a stickler about food and eating ALL (I repeat ALL) leftovers. I DO NOT like discarding food. Anyone who knows me and has been in my home on a consistent basis knows that I eat the food I buy. Why? Because so many people in this world are going hungry – right now – as you read this – right now. I suspect I’ll be a member of FISH Hospitality Pantries very soon.
I didn’t miss the season. I found it today in a very simple card.
Merry Christmas April, Robert, Marlee and Monica. Peace be with you.
Let the artist speak. If it does, then so be it. If it doesn’t, so shall it be undone. Short and sweet – and to the point.
Is that what’s keeping people from posting? I’m not sure.
No matter – the lights are in on making Christmas crazy and out-of-control. Alas, there is a product that makes sure you weigh in on the Holiday. After you’ve purchased 20,000 lights, attended a conference on lawnlights and then participated in the making of an intergalactic message board – you realize, “OH – the yard needs a little something-something.” More light, please. When looking – look no further: Light-O-rama.
Look at my Seasonalcrap.wordpress.com web site and send me some fun pictures to create an even better site.
Ho-ho-ho
It’s been two weeks and my Seasonal Crap blog is up and running. I’ve built a blogroll to network and grow my potential commenter list. Either way I’m hopeful to make the next year rich with close views of holidays and the retailization of America. OH boy.
Lots of news out there about the retail holiday we call Christmas. Much more than I’ve ever imagined. Funny how millions of people frown upon the season and participate in it all the same. I’m one of ‘those’ people. I must. What about momma and her shoes? What about the gift cards? What if I didn’t give – would retail America single handily take down the economy??? Who knows. Just keep buying.
10 (ten). 9×10=90. As in ninety. Miles.
When I woke my intent was to ride 85 miles, but the road opened up and I just agreed with it. It wasn’t the best ride ever. More about that herein.
When I left the house this morning at 7:30, it was about 39 degrees outside. Cold enough: a) to make my nose run, b) my legs feel like lead, and c) more than enough cold to say “go get back in the bed.”
“Base 1” is the specified time of the year when we saddle up and ride – ride – ride. Not for speed, but purely for time. So why the mileage? Because it forces you to accept “time” and the “time” can be either a friend or something you dread.
Early out means less cars and less dogs. Not always, but most of the time. I headed out Davis Ford and then over to 321 – across and keep going. Down Blockhouse and over to the area parallel to the Foothills Parkway. Once on Six Mile Road, you travel six miles. Thus, the name.
When I cross Highway 129 I don’t know the name of the roads, I know the sites. Your eyes take in all sorts of trailers, mobile homes, abandoned cars, trucks with trees growing in the engine compartments, a horse here and there with a swayed back – many of which look ready for the glue factory – and all sorts of stuff. Mostly it looks like people are poor. Every church has a reader board – analog style. “Without Christmas there wouldn’t be an Easter,” one sign read. Several signs touted Holiday Cantatas with multiple showings.
I stopped for a bio break at a church – hoping to refill a bottle while sharing one on the ground. Nearing completion, the pastor pulled up – I departed (the church lot).
During the core riding period (Build 1 and 2), when I’m training this road, I don’t really look around – I look at the speedometer in front me. My focus is on maintaining speed – at 21 or 22mph. It requires intense focus to keep your legs turning over even when the road rises in front of you. Dogs help your speed because they give you a reason to jump. But I don’t see the shacks, the mobile homes, nor the areas where it’s obvious that people don’t have much. This time of the year it hits home a little harder.
In the current training period (Base 1), I’m focused on distance and time. Longer is better – or so I’ve been told. What I know is that I traveled far enough today to bonk. Probably a combination of not eating and drinking enough during the ride, and due in part to the “test” (strength) I endured after work yesterday. No matter – it was a long day.
If that isn’t enough, look a little closer at the math. Ninety miles by yourself equates to a 128 mile group ride. I use softer math than what Borysewicz used. Eddie Borysewicz the former coach of the US Cycling Team calculated solo rides of 65 miles to be equal to a group ride of 100 miles. I soften the math to a 7/10 metric. You get the idea.
Either way – 90 miles or 128. It’s a long way. Think about a car ride that far. You’d check your gas gauge for sure. When I got home – I PIGGED out!
My sweet heart is pictured herein. She’s been with me for almost three years. Today when we stopped the mileage year-to-date is just over 12,000. Better gas up.
Ooops. I was in error. My exact time was 6:03:57. That’s closer to 6:04 rather than 6:02. And I finished 6th not 7th. I don’t give a rat’s ass about position – I DO care about the time. The ride was 117 miles not 115 as stated by the official. Several of the leaders checked odometers at the beginning and end: it WAS 117 miles. The clock – was it our friend … (?) … heck I wasted two minutes at two stops just trying to eat and reload liquid. Never mind the fact that we could have hauled ass down the other side of the Cherohala Skyway. Meaning – rather than cruise at 40mph, we could have turned on the power and eked out 45mph … again, trimming time. SO much to think about – and so many months to prepare. (double ha!)
It’s good to think back and remember the details of events.
Not exactly, but yet I was. Today I spent the physical part of my day in Gatlinburg … meeting and planning. Nice day – yucky weather – not such a pretty drive home – and cause for thinking of another space, another place.
Enough already about the North Shore? Nope.
If you’ve visited it then you know how unique it is and how much of Hawai’i is still alive in the surf mecca of the middle-Pacific. Some suggest it’s the mecca of surfing only beaten by “the big waves” off Maui at Outer Sprecks. Whatev. The North Shore is consistent year-round and a super relaxing part of Oahu. The photo for today was taken at sunset on the North Shore.
Aloha my friends.
Back in June of this year, I participated in a “ride” that was timed. Meaning, it was an organized event (not a race) that was open to anyone with a bicycle and a helmet. Pay your $40 and you’re in. The ride is called the “Cherohala Challenge.” It’s not just a ride, it’s a race against the clock. Of course, I didn’t know that until after I completed the event. Umm.
So – there are some 300 plus people lined up with the intent of riding this “beast” and somehow enjoying some (ha!) portion of it. Let’s put the ride in perspective – it’s 117 miles, includes 9,800′ of climbing elevation, one climb is 9 miles at 9%, the Dragon is full of curves and motorcycles, and a lot of people who ride the event at the ‘front of the pack’ are riding over their heads. So you best come prepared.
The night before I was eating steak, drinking beer before dinner – wine with dinner – and just imagining the fun I’d have the next day (double ha!). Little did I know that many of the guys I race against in the Masters division would show up and use this “ride” as a training race during the transition month of June. Oh boy.
Ok – the first 40 miles are fine – we’re cruising at 28, 29 and 30 on the flats. And a group of 110 (or so) riders are together — meandering through the back roads of Monroe County wiggling over to the Dragon. Several of these “riders” are getting a little edgy — many of which have ‘tudes about the (!) slowness of the pace. Naturally the true bike Nazi’s in the group are annoyed with the ‘tudes and basically scoff at their jumpiness near the front. I’m particularly annoyed because nearing the first serious climbs my water bottle cage BREAKS and I lose the full bottle … not the near empty bottle. The language wasn’t pretty. SO — I’m basically begging riders to snag water and fill up the empty bottle while we’re cruising toward the first climbs. NOT GOOD. REPEAT. NOT GOOD. I was in a position to get dropped if I couldn’t replenish liquids along the way. Cause there was NO stopping with this group. Thankfully a kind rider gave me a full water bottle.
As we approach the first section of the Dragon, I anticipate a surge by the ‘tudes — and I was right. There was. However – their eagerness was dramatically overcome by the sheer might of the leaders’ pace … and within one mile of the start of the climb the field of 110 was cut down to a tight 12. I was in 7th position. This felt good. Except for the fact that my heart rate monitor read OVERLOAD and my legs were screaming WTF, WTF, WTF! We continued climbing and then enjoyed the first descent. Then climbed again – to descend again. On the second descent, we dropped two riders who weren’t willing to let go of their brakes. Now we were 10.
Nearing the Cherohala we began climbing – and climbing – and climbing. I had ridden the Cherohala twice before and anticipated the hard portion, but the climb leading us to the Cherohala was new. And it was hard. The pace was firm. The grit in everyone’s eyes said something interesting: we’re pushing hard and not stopping for shit. On the 9 mile, 9% climb I was dropped. The photo herein is when I was at my worst on the ride. A photographer called “Killboy” (who shoots the crazy bikers on the Dragon) was shooting us. Probably laughing his ass off – and shaking his head at the foolishness of the Challenge. Whatever. Six riders got away – and I was left behind with four other guys. We dropped one and then the three of us traveled the last 30-something miles together.
Close to the finish I dropped the two guys I was with and crossed the finish line in 7th position with a time of 6:02 (six hours, two minutes). Had I known that a sub-six was a “big deal” I could have done a sub-six. Ah, the pleasure of knowing it will be on the list for 2008. Triple Ha. Afterwards I ate three hamburgers, two bags of chips, drank two Cokes, ate three cookies, two bananas, a 32oz protein drink and went home. In route home I bought a super-sized Smoothie at Smoothie King. I ate again that evening and it was another huge meal. I calculated my calorie burn at 6,000 calories for the day. Is this crazy or what!
If you care to join the ride – be prepared. It’s nothing but climbing that’s in your face. And best of all, it’s got killer views all along the Cherohala Skyway. Peace out.
The very thing that keeps you hidden is fun to wear. Here is another video to liven the day. Breakup by Mossy Oak. More views from West Sandy. I’ll likely wear the Mossy soon, but I’ll forgo the waders and wear some comfy boots. Did you hear that no one can see you when wearing camouflage. HA. Enjoy.
Well, some ducks came and many, many others elected to fly further south for the winter. When the ducks fly, callers call and guns come ablazin.’ When the bullets hurl toward their feathered bodies – they fly faster. I’m convinced of it. After seeing them fly fast – and then move out a little faster when steel shot is coming ever so close to them … they have built in radar! Ok – a short post – and a video: West Sandy.
I’ll be brief today – partially I’m tired – and more so because I’ve got a lot on my mind. Much of it taken away from the trip these last few days and even more from a drive with nothing to do but think. I affirmed that only I determine the outcome of my life … each and every day.
We influence and live our future long before it plays out on life’s stage. Imagine the clothes you selected to wear today. At some point you envisioned wearing those clothes, and made the choice. Life is really that simple. You envision something happening and then it either does or it doesn’t. I’m specifically talking about choices. We choose to do or not do. Try or just “get-it-done.” Eat healthy or not. Over drink or moderate it so we feel better the next day and accomplish more. Take time to improve our health or detract from the life we’re given by the Big Man who’s driving this gig.
Our overall happiness is determined by the choices we make, the drugs we consume and the way we interact with others. Sometimes life isn’t fun – sometimes it isn’t “happy-happy” – it’s got bad news piled upon sickness and all kinds of crap. When we layer on nasty vices that pinch our lifespan, we only compound life’s problems.
Now the great news. Brian Regan kept me company for many of those 301 miles today. Big HA’s everywhere.
Herein is view from my dad’s duck blind on the West Sandy. The photo was taken on a calm day – little wind – misty sky – and moderate temp. Nice pan.
It was a very long day today: up at 4:45AM for some pre-packing and readying for duckville on the West Sandy. Ducky stories and video will arrive once I’m home and can log in with a faster connection … the videos are ready and the photos are too. I’ll add more in the coming days.
After a morning trip to the lake with Scotty-Ray (Mr. Hollywood), Johnny and his son, Ethan … and his dog Bud-dy (not Elroy), I came back and ate “again” … this time turkey, eggs, smoked ham, gravy, more coffee and juice. I felt like a nap after that – as it was misting outside and kinda foggy. Nope. I picked up my skinny ass and layered on the gear with a few pieces to shield rain. I headed out from Crows Nest loop and traveled out of Henry County to Vale and then to Marlboro. The “distance” from my dad’s house is “far”- – – and with fog and mist even further.
On the return visit I saw a sign worthy of photo-sharing. There is no way that I could tell the story about the sign you see herein without a photo. Now the Paul Harvey ending — when I finally open the restaurant on the Big Island of Hawai’i, it’s going to be called, “You’ins R Here.” Just know that I’ll have killer steaks, whole wheat pastas, smoked chops, moist and tasty chicken – with the best vegetables available. Much more to follow.
Short and to the point. Visit my video by clicking the link. Memories of Pearl Harbor.
The West Sandy was very calm. Nothing moving – except for a few squirrels who got the news that a new cowboy had arrived from Maryville. With his personal pop-gun outfitted with a scope sighted in and ready for some action.
Not a creature was stirring nor the wind nor the rain. In a one hour, forty-five minute trek on the wet roads of Springville, I spotted 9 cars and one school bus. Other than that – it was very calm. The rainy weather pushed out just after lunch. And the roads, while still wet (and slippery), were ridable.
Today was an easy day of recovery – after a serious workout yesterday at TREC. I completed lots of leg work and my personal favorite exercise (leg lunges) topped off the day: 60lb x 30 steps, 70lbs x 30 steps and then 80lbs x 40 steps. If you’ve not tried these – do so. Take twenty pounds in each hand to see if you can “lunge.” If you can’t then reduce the weight. But imagine, I’m up over half my body weight and by a 40th step I’m breathing heavy like I’m climbing a step incline. Whew.
The photo seen below was taken near dad’s house on a bridge at the West Sandy. Notice the water’s calm appearance, and the reflection seems as if it’s been “shopped” in versus looking natural. Believe me – it’s natural.
A few doggies came out to visit me – but none were willing to play. Ha! I suspect the color weather and wetness had them thinking of warm fireplaces and doggie treats, not my skinny ass. DoubleHa!!
This final pan of the day was taken about 1/2 mile from dad’s place and it’s just another little house in the neighborhood – nice and clean – leaves gone but the pond looking very calm. Did I mention the air wasn’t moving?
Last night dad took me on a ride to the Kentucky border. At first I thought it was about 10 minutes away from his description. Umm, at 25 minutes we were still going north. Along the route, a f*&^#$@ fool was on the right side of a dark, two-lane back-country road facing us – with their lights on?!?!??! WTF! We weren’t sure if the road veered off right of the truck – or what. Again, WTF! With a little light rain and some drinks brewing inside dad made the right call and went left. It didn’t feel like left was the right call but – WTF!
(Here’s a photo of dad’s fishing-Christmas tree.)
Ok – we landed at Largos. Steaks were sizzling on the outdoor grill. And there were several peps inside this roadhouse that sits – literally – on the Kentucky/Tennessee border. When you park, you’re in Kentucky. When you walk to the door – you’re in Kentucky. When you step inside, you’re in Tennessee. If you want to dance – you go to the Kentucky side. If you want to drink like many good Baptists do, you visit the Tennessee side. I would suggest that if you’re not accustomed to breathing volumes of second-hand smoke, best bring an oxygen mask. Even my third layer tee shirt reeked.
Now the reason for the visit. Largo’s serves steaks on Thursdays that are grilled outside. It might seem like a no-big-deal-kind-of-thing, but it’s a big deal. Think back to the best steak you’ve had (other than at my house) and your taste buds will suggest that you enjoyed a wood-fired/grilled steak. Largo’s restaurant isn’t equipped with a “Morton’s of Chicago” style grill (LOL), but outside, they equalize the grilling field. YUMMY – I ate the entire 12oz ribeye. Then I did what I normally don’t do, I ate on a baked potato and chewed down a white bread roll (just one). I led off with a bluecheese soaked salad, and a cold Corona. As a true roadhouse, there is no blog, nor website nor referring website to show you a visual. I snagged a poster from the bathroom wall to prove I was there. No I won’t be there on 12/15 for Bluesianna music.
UP and at it. Dad has outfitted my kitchen with a new stainless steel coffee maker – as though I needed one. But it’s kewl. The timer function is nice and it’s all stainless and such. The real goody is the juicer. Now that’s a goody. First thing up was a two-banana, one-apple juicy-juice. I envision some great uses for this gift – like using all the fruits I purchase versus throwing away the aging limes or lemons … or an apple that’s past its prime eating date. More about the juice-eventures in future posts.
The photos of today’s long post are from the front and side of my dad’s lake house. It’s a log cabin (three stories) with four bedrooms and three baths (sleeps 21). Comfy. Cozy and there’s no noise pollution. Look closely and find that he has 2 (TWO) dishes. One for TV and the other for the computer. He prefers to have TV and computer operations running with ample steam to deliver the news, emails, and such.
From the front porch I bagged a squirrel this morning – and will find his furry body later today. Did I hear juiced squirrel in the background? I can cook it and then juice it – and give it to some of my co-workers who truly need a juiced lifestyle. Can you say WTF!
Peace out.
I’m visiting my dad in Springville, Tennessee.
The trip over was mighty nice: few cars and fewer super-Troopers. At 301 miles from Maryville to Springville the trip is just about 4 hours. The other side of Nashville I tucked in behind a Trooper and cruised at 91 (my preferred speed ironically).
Alas, I’m on Kentucky lake near fishing and duck hunting and such. We’re not close to Paris, Tennessee but close enough. We’re not close to Camden, but close enough. We’re in a remote section of Tennessee where schools can be purchased for a mere $20,000. Land and homes are easily acquired and that includes finding access to the lake. Enough of the geography lesson. Best get to bed.
Beautiful images are what I’m trying to write about – to share – and to offer up. Today’s image is just that. BEAUTIFUL. Taken on the Cherohala – one of my personal favorite riding spots in this part of the world – it’s a distant shot of the descent back into Tennessee from the North Carolina side. The slit in the mountain is approximately 10 miles from where the photo is taken. Please click to see the full view. Peace.
There are some posting RULES! newly added. If you don’t understand them, refer to the First rule. It’s the easiest to remember.
Happy commenting.
No photo today. I’m not “out of film” – I’m just out of patience with certain issues that come up again and again. Therefore, this post clears my own air.
“Why is that? Why are you out of patience?” Oh – I don’t know … maybe because I allow it?
Ever wonder why people say, “we can savor that topic for later when there’s nothing to do but drive,” — then they don’t follow through. What’s up with that? When they read about “getting real,” or “growing authenticity” and say they’re going to share the new knowledge and don’t. That’s confusing?
Or when an event is coming up – an event that was known well in advance – but is delivered in combination with another “event” to divert attention from one item to another. Why does that occur? Are calendars out of fashion? Have people lost touch with calendars? Are they so disinterested in their family’s lives that events are just check marks on a social list of “my son was in such-and-such last night …” ??
How nice.
A left and right hook deliver a mind altering thought …
… “don’t get too comfortable with this situation …
… danger-danger Will Robbins.”
Maybe it’s the fact that people are so centered on business. Umm, or ego is hip locked with business life. Or – a relationship is needed but why bother all the time? Not sure? Could be a combination of many things. The great news about combinations is my ability to duck, twist, roll the body left (or right) and fire a few of my own. Nuf said.
The draw of the mountains (for some people) is undeniable. Similar to the draw of the ocean, it’s where life originates.
Headwaters trickle from streams atop mountains, flowing to nearby rivers, and then to the oceans of the world beaming with life.
The lure of the mountain’s call is a definitive source of energy for me personally. It’s probably the internal compass leading me (and many, many others) to tap in the unseen energy. Much like a radio station frequency, finding it and locking into it requires focus but once there you can push the “button” and tap into it. Probably the very reason I live so close to them. This may assist my internal compass in finding the radio station much quicker – maybe. The magnetism of the ocean, for me, is an equivalent draw and a powerful one as well. Ergo the reason I write about the ocean (specifically the Pacific) so frequently.
Attached are two photos – very similar to one another. The first is 2/3’s of a pan and the second is a full pan. The difference is significant. Both were taken on my back deck this morning at sunrise.
“Back in the day” I used film and piecing techniques to create similar photographs. However, the process was much slower and room for error was huge. The mountains in the background are the Foothills of the Smokies. Just an eye shot from my back door. I’d best visit them today. Peace.
Today’s route was modified on the fly – on the road that is. Rather than traverse the Foothills Parkway, which would have added significant climbing to an 80 mile ride, I elected to turn left on River Road (after a long trek from home toward Seymour and then over {very close} to Pigeon Forge. The distance, calculated on the road, was a suitable option to give me a minimum 80 mile ride. The best part – I traveled to my personal mecca – The Institute at Tremont. Mind you, I’d prefer pulvinar riding pants versus the bibs I wore. After 4 hours the booty is a little sore. (LOL).
Here is a link to the bridge at Tremont – in winter – with snow – and it’s obviously cold.
Todays’ photo is from the other side of the bridge – the side I rarely photograph because it’s usually dark on the south side. How nice to find some wonderful sunlight brightening up the water, rocks and trees. From Tremont it’s 21 miles to the back door – and that was just about an hour travel time. I think I’ll rest now.
