200 pounds...
Not bad for a slow guy.
Since I'm just getting the Flickr account going, I'll put up some Trans Iowa photos. I will jump around some over the next few days, but I'll try to keep somewhat of a theme for the day going. Here will be the photos of the bike before and after the event. Also, photos of me before, during and after.
The bike before the race. Pretty much all packed up and ready to go.
Me the night before getting ready.
Me before the start.
The next ones will be me each hour after the start of the race.
Me at the pickup point in Cresco.
What the bike looked like after 6 hours in the Iowa wind.
As you can tell, I was looking pretty yucky by the end. In the middle I was smiling, but my face was half frozen. I gotta check out why my helmet was so turned though. Looks pretty dorky.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Trans Iowa in a Nutshell
A quick thought or two after the race.
For me, it was the toughest I have worked to go so little.
Going in, I knew if it was windy I would be screwed. And that's exactly what happened. For me, I'm more of a participant than a competitor and boy did that show. Friday night's prerace meeting, I was really questioning my decision on even being there, considering all the racer types in the room. But I pretty much figured, hey, starting the event is half the battle. And I was most definitely going to start the event.
It was in the mid 30's at the start, with wind chills probably in the 20's. Light snow falling. 20 mph winds with gusts probably up to 30 or more. I figured I would be warmed up after the first hill, I was wrong. I froze for the first hour. I thought it would get better, but it didn't. By the end of the third hour, I had put on all the gear that I had and I was slightly better. At hour 4 in the pelting snow, I called it quits and phoned my wife to get me in the next town. It took 2 more hours to get there. I missed two turns along the way. I rode for about 45 miles in those 6 hours. It was very tough mentally for me. Besides being really cold, the body felt well. I just need to train harder so that I have more power so that I can put out when the wind is like that. I also need to rethink my bike choice. I rode what I had, a mountain bike. I put a frame bag on that and it pretty much ended up being a sail in that strong wind. I was really lucky not to have gone down a few times with the gusts.
In the end, 55 people started, with only 5 completing. The race was shorten to 240 miles because of bad road conditions. There were trees down, water over the road and a mud slide.
I took pictures over the 6 hours that I was out and drove the course afterwards to show my wife and kids where I was, taking more photos. I will have those up in the next few days along with a longer write up.
For me, it was the toughest I have worked to go so little.
Going in, I knew if it was windy I would be screwed. And that's exactly what happened. For me, I'm more of a participant than a competitor and boy did that show. Friday night's prerace meeting, I was really questioning my decision on even being there, considering all the racer types in the room. But I pretty much figured, hey, starting the event is half the battle. And I was most definitely going to start the event.
It was in the mid 30's at the start, with wind chills probably in the 20's. Light snow falling. 20 mph winds with gusts probably up to 30 or more. I figured I would be warmed up after the first hill, I was wrong. I froze for the first hour. I thought it would get better, but it didn't. By the end of the third hour, I had put on all the gear that I had and I was slightly better. At hour 4 in the pelting snow, I called it quits and phoned my wife to get me in the next town. It took 2 more hours to get there. I missed two turns along the way. I rode for about 45 miles in those 6 hours. It was very tough mentally for me. Besides being really cold, the body felt well. I just need to train harder so that I have more power so that I can put out when the wind is like that. I also need to rethink my bike choice. I rode what I had, a mountain bike. I put a frame bag on that and it pretty much ended up being a sail in that strong wind. I was really lucky not to have gone down a few times with the gusts.
In the end, 55 people started, with only 5 completing. The race was shorten to 240 miles because of bad road conditions. There were trees down, water over the road and a mud slide.
I took pictures over the 6 hours that I was out and drove the course afterwards to show my wife and kids where I was, taking more photos. I will have those up in the next few days along with a longer write up.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
And the bike bags look like this
200 pounds....
I'm not really keeping track here. Maybe after Trans Iowa.
Here is what the bike looks like with new bags.
I'm not really keeping track here. Maybe after Trans Iowa.
Here is what the bike looks like with new bags.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Trans Iowa in under 5 days
202 pounds....
At this point I'm not even thinking about my weight. Bring on the pain of Trans Iowa. That will help me forget about my weight.
I did get out this weekend and do some riding and picture taking. Here's a few for your viewing pleasure from the Bug Line Trail.
At this point I'm not even thinking about my weight. Bring on the pain of Trans Iowa. That will help me forget about my weight.
I did get out this weekend and do some riding and picture taking. Here's a few for your viewing pleasure from the Bug Line Trail.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Ernesto Lube is in the House!
200 pounds....
Hopefully taking off a couple of pounds this week will be a good indicator what is to come.
Ernesto Lube is now another sponsor of me. So please check out their website and buy their wares. I'll be using the bike lube during Trans Iowa.
I was out on the bike today for about 2.5 hours. The new Wobble Naught fit has been working well. The body is fairly happy with the new fit. There is some break in time so I figured not going a long time today just to let the body get used to the new position. Breaking a new seat in has been a pain. Slight pain in my left knee, but only when I'm really pushing it. So hopefully that is only a temporary thing. Ice is in store for the knees and lots of full body stretching.
Another thing that is getting tried out this weekend is Sole shoe inserts. These are the ones that you throw in the oven for 2 minutes at 200 degrees and then put them in your shoes and stand in them for 2 minutes. I road today with my current Specialized insoles and tomorrow I will use the Sole ones. We will have to see how they work.
I picked up the EasyUp clone that I ordered from REI. This is the second one of these that I have gotten from them. The first one I got from them, the canvas cover was torn and had various holes in it. Hopefully this one will be better. If not, I will have to find somewhere else to get one. The reason that I got this one though is because I used my member dividend and a 20% off coupon. So I paid under $100 for it.
One other thing that I picked up today was a new camera. It is an Olympus weather proof one. So hopefully I will be taking a bunch of pictures from Trans Iowa.
Hopefully taking off a couple of pounds this week will be a good indicator what is to come.
Ernesto Lube is now another sponsor of me. So please check out their website and buy their wares. I'll be using the bike lube during Trans Iowa.
I was out on the bike today for about 2.5 hours. The new Wobble Naught fit has been working well. The body is fairly happy with the new fit. There is some break in time so I figured not going a long time today just to let the body get used to the new position. Breaking a new seat in has been a pain. Slight pain in my left knee, but only when I'm really pushing it. So hopefully that is only a temporary thing. Ice is in store for the knees and lots of full body stretching.
Another thing that is getting tried out this weekend is Sole shoe inserts. These are the ones that you throw in the oven for 2 minutes at 200 degrees and then put them in your shoes and stand in them for 2 minutes. I road today with my current Specialized insoles and tomorrow I will use the Sole ones. We will have to see how they work.
I picked up the EasyUp clone that I ordered from REI. This is the second one of these that I have gotten from them. The first one I got from them, the canvas cover was torn and had various holes in it. Hopefully this one will be better. If not, I will have to find somewhere else to get one. The reason that I got this one though is because I used my member dividend and a 20% off coupon. So I paid under $100 for it.
One other thing that I picked up today was a new camera. It is an Olympus weather proof one. So hopefully I will be taking a bunch of pictures from Trans Iowa.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Pre Race Week Jitters
203 pounds....
Yup, nothing happening there.
I got my Wobble Naught fits this past weekend. Whoa! I highly recommend it to everyone. Getting on the bike after everything was adjusted, I was quite surprised at how everything just felt right. I can't wait to get a bunch more hours on the bike to see how my body feels.
The bags from Carousel Design Works are still not here. In speaking with Jeff out there, he said hopefully they will be finished by the end of this week. A frame bag, seat bag and fuel cell. I can't wait for them to get here.
Been getting the S-Works in shape for next weekend's race. Here it is pictured with the new Crank Brothers Pump that I bought. Just when you think you have it all worked out, you see something else that isn't just quite right. Trans Iowa is going to be a long one, but no matter what, I'm starting it and giving it a good shot. You will know when I finish, because you will hear me yelling.
Yup, nothing happening there.
I got my Wobble Naught fits this past weekend. Whoa! I highly recommend it to everyone. Getting on the bike after everything was adjusted, I was quite surprised at how everything just felt right. I can't wait to get a bunch more hours on the bike to see how my body feels.
The bags from Carousel Design Works are still not here. In speaking with Jeff out there, he said hopefully they will be finished by the end of this week. A frame bag, seat bag and fuel cell. I can't wait for them to get here.
Been getting the S-Works in shape for next weekend's race. Here it is pictured with the new Crank Brothers Pump that I bought. Just when you think you have it all worked out, you see something else that isn't just quite right. Trans Iowa is going to be a long one, but no matter what, I'm starting it and giving it a good shot. You will know when I finish, because you will hear me yelling.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Happy Birthday to Me
Yup, another year has come and gone. I hit the big 45 today. I don't feel any older though. Kinda odd that I would start becoming an endurance racer at such an age. The guys at the bike shop were quite surprised that I'm as old as I am.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Must be a problem some where
201 pounds....
Still there, still there. Now that I'm riding outside again, maybe this number will change some more.
For the second straight day, I rode outside. Yup, hard to believe. I did about 2 hours and even rode up Hillzilla. I used to really be afraid of that hill, not any longer. I may not be the fastest up that hill, but I no longer have to stop half way to catch my breath. Did some snowmobile trail riding by Sussex. That was a mistake. Through frozen tundra and thawing tundra. Feet got really wet, but the smart wool socks I had on, worked like a champ.
I have spoken with the Wobble Naught fitter for the midwest, Kevin Wilson, and I think I'll be getting this done to me and my bikes. And if things work out well, Barb will be getting it done also. In talking with Kevin this weekend, he might have a spot open next Saturday for me. I'll keep everyone posted on this.
Hard to believe, but I watched the IndyCar race last night. It was pretty good and I might even watch next week's race.
Did you catch the MotoGP race from Spain? Nicky Hayden did well and placed 4. He pulled himself up in a corner that I thought for sure he was crashing in. His elbow and knee were on the ground while the opposite foot was off the peg. Pretty wild to watch.
Still there, still there. Now that I'm riding outside again, maybe this number will change some more.
For the second straight day, I rode outside. Yup, hard to believe. I did about 2 hours and even rode up Hillzilla. I used to really be afraid of that hill, not any longer. I may not be the fastest up that hill, but I no longer have to stop half way to catch my breath. Did some snowmobile trail riding by Sussex. That was a mistake. Through frozen tundra and thawing tundra. Feet got really wet, but the smart wool socks I had on, worked like a champ.
I have spoken with the Wobble Naught fitter for the midwest, Kevin Wilson, and I think I'll be getting this done to me and my bikes. And if things work out well, Barb will be getting it done also. In talking with Kevin this weekend, he might have a spot open next Saturday for me. I'll keep everyone posted on this.
Hard to believe, but I watched the IndyCar race last night. It was pretty good and I might even watch next week's race.
Did you catch the MotoGP race from Spain? Nicky Hayden did well and placed 4. He pulled himself up in a corner that I thought for sure he was crashing in. His elbow and knee were on the ground while the opposite foot was off the peg. Pretty wild to watch.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Oh The Joy
??? pounds....
I have no idea how much I weigh. I didn't get on the scale this morning.
Today was a big day for me. I finally have taken my first outdoor ride for 2008. I was outside riding around in 37 degree weather. That is unheard of for me. But I was out there none the less. I rode over to Waukesha and out to the Glacial Drumlin Trail. I was out for about 3 hours with the bike moving about 2.5 of that. I had one layer on the lower half and 2 layers on most of the upper. I think if I'm going to be riding in these temperatures I will need to invest in a base layer. I was cold but not COLD. Overall, the body loved being outside and riding. Nothing like the wind in your face and a nice bike underneath ya.
I have no idea how much I weigh. I didn't get on the scale this morning.
Today was a big day for me. I finally have taken my first outdoor ride for 2008. I was outside riding around in 37 degree weather. That is unheard of for me. But I was out there none the less. I rode over to Waukesha and out to the Glacial Drumlin Trail. I was out for about 3 hours with the bike moving about 2.5 of that. I had one layer on the lower half and 2 layers on most of the upper. I think if I'm going to be riding in these temperatures I will need to invest in a base layer. I was cold but not COLD. Overall, the body loved being outside and riding. Nothing like the wind in your face and a nice bike underneath ya.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Cheq 40 is a GO!
203 pounds....
I was up north for my parent's 50th wedding anniversary, needless to say I ate way too much. Then the girls have stayed up there for spring break and Barb and I have spend the last two nights in fancy eating places. Needless to say, that isn't too good for a diet.
But the great news is both of us made it through the lottery. Barb will be doing the the short race and I'll be doing the long. That is good and bad at the same time. Now I won't be able to go to the MotoGP race in Indy that weekend. Unless I want to do a mad dash out of Hayward on Saturday and a bonzai run to Indy. hhhmmm.... Now that's a thought.
I was up north for my parent's 50th wedding anniversary, needless to say I ate way too much. Then the girls have stayed up there for spring break and Barb and I have spend the last two nights in fancy eating places. Needless to say, that isn't too good for a diet.
But the great news is both of us made it through the lottery. Barb will be doing the the short race and I'll be doing the long. That is good and bad at the same time. Now I won't be able to go to the MotoGP race in Indy that weekend. Unless I want to do a mad dash out of Hayward on Saturday and a bonzai run to Indy. hhhmmm.... Now that's a thought.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Chop, Chop
200 pounds....
You will know when I get below 200 pounds because you will hear me scream my lungs out. It has been way to long since my weight started with a 1.
The other day at work, we were trying to remember all the different ways over the years we have been told that something needed to be done fast. Chop, Chop was one. A.S.A.P was another. And then there is the never forgotten, bust your ass and just get it done. That was always a good one to hear. Not to be forgotten is Stat. We need that Stat! Then there this one. We need you to move this up to the top of your list. It demands immediate attention. Another might be. This is a top priority. I guess the list could go on for quite some time. If you have an idea on this, please post it in the comments. I know, all 3 of my readers will answer.
Otherwise, another snow storm is expected and possibly up to 5 inches of snow. Not bad for the second day of spring. One of these days I'll get back outside on a bike. The end of next week is looking like it might be in the 40's. Maybe then. Trans Iowa is getting closer. On that front, I did make reservations at the Heartland Inn. So hopefully I won't be too far from the start line.
You will know when I get below 200 pounds because you will hear me scream my lungs out. It has been way to long since my weight started with a 1.
The other day at work, we were trying to remember all the different ways over the years we have been told that something needed to be done fast. Chop, Chop was one. A.S.A.P was another. And then there is the never forgotten, bust your ass and just get it done. That was always a good one to hear. Not to be forgotten is Stat. We need that Stat! Then there this one. We need you to move this up to the top of your list. It demands immediate attention. Another might be. This is a top priority. I guess the list could go on for quite some time. If you have an idea on this, please post it in the comments. I know, all 3 of my readers will answer.
Otherwise, another snow storm is expected and possibly up to 5 inches of snow. Not bad for the second day of spring. One of these days I'll get back outside on a bike. The end of next week is looking like it might be in the 40's. Maybe then. Trans Iowa is getting closer. On that front, I did make reservations at the Heartland Inn. So hopefully I won't be too far from the start line.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Spinning my life away
201 pounds....
The weight loss area has been not there, but at least I haven't gained any. I have been back to hitting spin classes so hopefully that will help overall. 5 classes totaling 7 hours in the past week isn't too bad. And on this past Sunday I was in the basement on the treadmill doing an hour of fast walking. That's supposed to be better for my knees at the moment compared to running.
The weather has finally broke some so the snow is melting and we can even see some grass in some areas. I might be brave enough to go back out and ride some one of these days. I just hate riding in the ice, snow and cold.
We are off to Ben's Cycle this afternoon to get Sami a new bike for her birthday. Instead of presents, everyone gave money to go towards a bike. I'm not exactly sure what we will be getting her this time. Probably another mountain bike.
The weight loss area has been not there, but at least I haven't gained any. I have been back to hitting spin classes so hopefully that will help overall. 5 classes totaling 7 hours in the past week isn't too bad. And on this past Sunday I was in the basement on the treadmill doing an hour of fast walking. That's supposed to be better for my knees at the moment compared to running.
The weather has finally broke some so the snow is melting and we can even see some grass in some areas. I might be brave enough to go back out and ride some one of these days. I just hate riding in the ice, snow and cold.
We are off to Ben's Cycle this afternoon to get Sami a new bike for her birthday. Instead of presents, everyone gave money to go towards a bike. I'm not exactly sure what we will be getting her this time. Probably another mountain bike.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Darn, Darn, Darn
201 pounds....
Once again, I have not progressed in the weight department. But I have been eating better and I'm getting to the point where I'm going to be off of caffeine. Which to me, is a good thing.
The big ole darns are because I did not get into the Iceman Cometh on the first round of the lottery. There were 3,900 entries for 2,500 spots. That's pretty crazy, eh? The first round people must pay for their entry within 2 weeks or they will lose their place. Then the organizers will pick again and other people will get a chance. So, maybe, just maybe, I can get in that way. Otherwise, I will be doing the ebay thing when Michigan Youth Cycling puts the 5 entries that they will be auctioning off this year. Those should start mid summer or so.
Otherwise I hit the YMCA last night for 50 minutes of spin class while Mary was doing karate. Sweated like a beast for some reason, but it felt good. My knee didn't bother me a bit. So that's a plus.
In bike related things, I need to get my ass moving on my bags for Trans Iowa. I soon as payday hits I'm moving on these. The way it's going, I will have to be wearing deep freeze clothing during that race because the snow will still be on the ground. You never know.
Once again, I have not progressed in the weight department. But I have been eating better and I'm getting to the point where I'm going to be off of caffeine. Which to me, is a good thing.
The big ole darns are because I did not get into the Iceman Cometh on the first round of the lottery. There were 3,900 entries for 2,500 spots. That's pretty crazy, eh? The first round people must pay for their entry within 2 weeks or they will lose their place. Then the organizers will pick again and other people will get a chance. So, maybe, just maybe, I can get in that way. Otherwise, I will be doing the ebay thing when Michigan Youth Cycling puts the 5 entries that they will be auctioning off this year. Those should start mid summer or so.
Otherwise I hit the YMCA last night for 50 minutes of spin class while Mary was doing karate. Sweated like a beast for some reason, but it felt good. My knee didn't bother me a bit. So that's a plus.
In bike related things, I need to get my ass moving on my bags for Trans Iowa. I soon as payday hits I'm moving on these. The way it's going, I will have to be wearing deep freeze clothing during that race because the snow will still be on the ground. You never know.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Busy, Busy, Busy
200 pounds....
I think that's how much I weigh today, but I'm not sure. I didn't weigh myself this morning because I have busy running around and such the past couple of weeks.
I'm back to working 5 days a week so that pretty much changes everything in my life. I have even been getting up before 5am. Now in the last year, that has been unheard of. That used to be normal for me. So working will hopefully change me back to being a morning person like I used to be.
The knee has been doing fine. I need to work more on my core and hips. That means I'll be back to hitting Graeme Street's Cyclo-CORE workouts starting next week. I probably should have been doing those all this time anyway. Oh well, hind sight is 20/20.
Almost March and that means that Trans Iowa is next month. That also means signing up for the Cheq 40 lottery. Barb and I are both trying to get in again this year. If we don't make it, hopefully we can go down to Indy for the MotoGP race. How cruel is that, having those 2 great events on the same weekend. And it also means that I will be finding out if I'm in the Iceman Cometh this year.
What about that Open Wheel Series Unification stuff? Wow, who would have figured. I wonder what that will mean for the Champ Car date at Road America?
I think that's how much I weigh today, but I'm not sure. I didn't weigh myself this morning because I have busy running around and such the past couple of weeks.
I'm back to working 5 days a week so that pretty much changes everything in my life. I have even been getting up before 5am. Now in the last year, that has been unheard of. That used to be normal for me. So working will hopefully change me back to being a morning person like I used to be.
The knee has been doing fine. I need to work more on my core and hips. That means I'll be back to hitting Graeme Street's Cyclo-CORE workouts starting next week. I probably should have been doing those all this time anyway. Oh well, hind sight is 20/20.
Almost March and that means that Trans Iowa is next month. That also means signing up for the Cheq 40 lottery. Barb and I are both trying to get in again this year. If we don't make it, hopefully we can go down to Indy for the MotoGP race. How cruel is that, having those 2 great events on the same weekend. And it also means that I will be finding out if I'm in the Iceman Cometh this year.
What about that Open Wheel Series Unification stuff? Wow, who would have figured. I wonder what that will mean for the Champ Car date at Road America?
Friday, February 15, 2008
Ear Buds
201 pounds....
Funny how when you aren't working on your diet, you lose weight. I haven't worked out all week to be nice to my knee and I have been able to shed a couple of pounds. You gotta like that.
I splurged and bought a pair of Westone CR-1 custom molded ear buds. No longer will I have to be duct taping my Apple ones to my ears so that they don't fall out. I bought them in red so that I don't have to fight discoloration when they age some. I used them this morning for about 2 hours while I was shoveling the driveway and they worked great. I did some testing yesterday with them using different sampling rates and with my poor ears, I couldn't tell the difference. I have a feeling that someone with a better ear can tell the difference, that better ear isn't me though. I also compared them to the stock Apple ear bud and noticed a big difference. The CR-1's stop outside noise and sound much better. The only bitch about them is that they cost $190. It was my Christmas present to myself.
The exercise was tough on my body though. My back is yelling that it needs to be stretched and my knee let me know that it was there the entire time. Hopefully it is just tender because of the cortisone shot. The weatherman is predicting more snow this weekend so I figured I better get out there and clean off the 1 or so inches that's currently there.
In bike news, I have ordered up new Ergon grips for the S-Works bike and hopefully this weekend I will get the template made out for the frame bag that I'm going to get made. I also need to send the 24 Solo poster down to Craig Gordon. Can you say lazy ass. I knew you could. And you probably will see my photo next to that saying in the dictionary.
Off to Chicago tomorrow to visit my sister, Carol. Her birthday was yesterday. I'm not sure how old she is, but it doesn't matter because she will always be older than me. Saturday is also Barb's birthday. Which is also my exwife's birthday. How weird is that.
Funny how when you aren't working on your diet, you lose weight. I haven't worked out all week to be nice to my knee and I have been able to shed a couple of pounds. You gotta like that.
I splurged and bought a pair of Westone CR-1 custom molded ear buds. No longer will I have to be duct taping my Apple ones to my ears so that they don't fall out. I bought them in red so that I don't have to fight discoloration when they age some. I used them this morning for about 2 hours while I was shoveling the driveway and they worked great. I did some testing yesterday with them using different sampling rates and with my poor ears, I couldn't tell the difference. I have a feeling that someone with a better ear can tell the difference, that better ear isn't me though. I also compared them to the stock Apple ear bud and noticed a big difference. The CR-1's stop outside noise and sound much better. The only bitch about them is that they cost $190. It was my Christmas present to myself.
The exercise was tough on my body though. My back is yelling that it needs to be stretched and my knee let me know that it was there the entire time. Hopefully it is just tender because of the cortisone shot. The weatherman is predicting more snow this weekend so I figured I better get out there and clean off the 1 or so inches that's currently there.
In bike news, I have ordered up new Ergon grips for the S-Works bike and hopefully this weekend I will get the template made out for the frame bag that I'm going to get made. I also need to send the 24 Solo poster down to Craig Gordon. Can you say lazy ass. I knew you could. And you probably will see my photo next to that saying in the dictionary.
Off to Chicago tomorrow to visit my sister, Carol. Her birthday was yesterday. I'm not sure how old she is, but it doesn't matter because she will always be older than me. Saturday is also Barb's birthday. Which is also my exwife's birthday. How weird is that.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Possibly Dodged A Major Bullet
203 pounds....
The weight has been steady, but I have not been dieting much either. I will need to work harder at getting my metabolism going. The +2 hour Sunday spin classes have helped. Only one more of them left. Darn.
Last fall I did the 100 mile gravel ride in Iowa and right around then I was doing some hard training intervals on the bike. My left knee swelled up some and I had a tough time walking up and down stairs for a few weeks. As time went on, the swelling came down and the pain faded away. Well, all of the swelling didn't go so I finally visited my Doctor the other day and ended up getting a MRI done on it. Well, I have a slight tear in my meniscus, but I have a worse problem going on under my knee cap. Arthritis. I got the fluid removed from my knee and a shot of cortisone added back in to help out. I was quite surprised when the Doc said that I could get back to training in a few days. He also has prescribed physical therapy, so I start that on Wednesday. I guess I was lucky.
NASCAR has started back up this week. I'm pissed that they are having such nice weather in Daytona. All the years that we went, there was only one year that it was really warm and that was for the Duels only. I guess that's the way it goes. I should count my blessings that I was able to go at all. I have been fortunate enough to see Dale Earnhardt win there, die there and then to see Little E win there the following July race. Not to mention I saw Bodine crash the truck into a million pieces and witnessed the entire grandstand go silent. Now that was creepy.
The weight has been steady, but I have not been dieting much either. I will need to work harder at getting my metabolism going. The +2 hour Sunday spin classes have helped. Only one more of them left. Darn.
Last fall I did the 100 mile gravel ride in Iowa and right around then I was doing some hard training intervals on the bike. My left knee swelled up some and I had a tough time walking up and down stairs for a few weeks. As time went on, the swelling came down and the pain faded away. Well, all of the swelling didn't go so I finally visited my Doctor the other day and ended up getting a MRI done on it. Well, I have a slight tear in my meniscus, but I have a worse problem going on under my knee cap. Arthritis. I got the fluid removed from my knee and a shot of cortisone added back in to help out. I was quite surprised when the Doc said that I could get back to training in a few days. He also has prescribed physical therapy, so I start that on Wednesday. I guess I was lucky.
NASCAR has started back up this week. I'm pissed that they are having such nice weather in Daytona. All the years that we went, there was only one year that it was really warm and that was for the Duels only. I guess that's the way it goes. I should count my blessings that I was able to go at all. I have been fortunate enough to see Dale Earnhardt win there, die there and then to see Little E win there the following July race. Not to mention I saw Bodine crash the truck into a million pieces and witnessed the entire grandstand go silent. Now that was creepy.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
2008 Sponsorship
204 pounds....
I haven't been working on losing weight, so I haven't been. Yuck. One of these days I'll get back in the right frame of mind.
The good news is I am now a Hammer Nutrition sponsored rider! I know, hard to believe, but it's true. I got the paperwork this week. Overall it is a very good thing because the whole family uses their products so it is pretty easy to promote something that we all use and believe in.
I haven't been working on losing weight, so I haven't been. Yuck. One of these days I'll get back in the right frame of mind.
The good news is I am now a Hammer Nutrition sponsored rider! I know, hard to believe, but it's true. I got the paperwork this week. Overall it is a very good thing because the whole family uses their products so it is pretty easy to promote something that we all use and believe in.
Monday, January 21, 2008
The Monday After
204 pounds....
Been semi good about what I have been eating. Barb and I did go out on Friday night to Bonefish's for our anniversary. It wasn't a total pig out. Now Saturday night was though. We went to the Mexican place at Ruby Isle, I forget the name, but I did eat way too much. I guess it will take a couple of days for me to get over it. Then today I had Starbucks and a candy bar. I need to stop falling backwards like this.
I guess the Green Bay Packers had a football game yesterday that they forgot about. It seemed to me like they didn't play with much gusto. I find it kinda hard to believe that trainers at that level still do not know how to treat cramps in their players. When Harris was running around with massive leg cramps I was yelling at the TV to get that man some Endurolytes. But needless to say, football lives in a Gatorade world. And with the weather being so cold yesterday, there weren't too many people drinking their electrolytes like they should have.
I was ambitious today and moved all the bikes from the garage to the basement. I know I should have done this last month but I now have finally done it. All the bikes, tires and tools are warm and dry downstairs. I even vacuumed the area before I put them there.
Now I can measure up the frame and make the stencil for the frame bag.
I was lucky enough to get registered for the Horribly Hilly Hundreds this year. I have signed up for the 200K and I will be doing it on my mountain bike. It should be a blast since last year I only saw one person riding a fat tire bike. Hopefully I will be able to show them some real iron man legs after the other events before this one. After Trans Iowa, 200K should feel like a breeze.
You know what's really cool, the 24 Hours of Daytona is this weekend. Woohoo!
Been semi good about what I have been eating. Barb and I did go out on Friday night to Bonefish's for our anniversary. It wasn't a total pig out. Now Saturday night was though. We went to the Mexican place at Ruby Isle, I forget the name, but I did eat way too much. I guess it will take a couple of days for me to get over it. Then today I had Starbucks and a candy bar. I need to stop falling backwards like this.
I guess the Green Bay Packers had a football game yesterday that they forgot about. It seemed to me like they didn't play with much gusto. I find it kinda hard to believe that trainers at that level still do not know how to treat cramps in their players. When Harris was running around with massive leg cramps I was yelling at the TV to get that man some Endurolytes. But needless to say, football lives in a Gatorade world. And with the weather being so cold yesterday, there weren't too many people drinking their electrolytes like they should have.
I was ambitious today and moved all the bikes from the garage to the basement. I know I should have done this last month but I now have finally done it. All the bikes, tires and tools are warm and dry downstairs. I even vacuumed the area before I put them there.
Now I can measure up the frame and make the stencil for the frame bag.
I was lucky enough to get registered for the Horribly Hilly Hundreds this year. I have signed up for the 200K and I will be doing it on my mountain bike. It should be a blast since last year I only saw one person riding a fat tire bike. Hopefully I will be able to show them some real iron man legs after the other events before this one. After Trans Iowa, 200K should feel like a breeze.
You know what's really cool, the 24 Hours of Daytona is this weekend. Woohoo!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
The Calm Before The Storm
203 pounds....
Finally I am making headway with the weight. It is nice to see a smaller number on the scale. I did give in to temptation yesterday and had some ice cream. I should know better by now, but it was very tasty. All other sweets have been kicked to the curb. Which is a good thing. Now I just have to start eating smaller portions and things will go my way.
Today's workout consisted of 30 minutes on the bike, then 30 minutes on the treadmill, and then 30 more minutes on the bike. Overall I felt pretty good. I need to start ramping up the hours so that I have a huge base for Trans Iowa.
In bike news, not much. I need to move the bikes from the garage to the basement so that Barb can park the van inside. I know, this should have been done last month. I need to get the stencil made for the frame bag that I will be having made for the new Epic. I will also be getting a huge seat bag made for carrying tons of stuff for Trans Iowa. I also need to get in touch with Craig Gordon and find out if he can get his 2006 24 Hour Solo mechanic to sign the 24 Solo poster when I send it to him. That is something else that needs to get going.
Finally I am making headway with the weight. It is nice to see a smaller number on the scale. I did give in to temptation yesterday and had some ice cream. I should know better by now, but it was very tasty. All other sweets have been kicked to the curb. Which is a good thing. Now I just have to start eating smaller portions and things will go my way.
Today's workout consisted of 30 minutes on the bike, then 30 minutes on the treadmill, and then 30 more minutes on the bike. Overall I felt pretty good. I need to start ramping up the hours so that I have a huge base for Trans Iowa.
In bike news, not much. I need to move the bikes from the garage to the basement so that Barb can park the van inside. I know, this should have been done last month. I need to get the stencil made for the frame bag that I will be having made for the new Epic. I will also be getting a huge seat bag made for carrying tons of stuff for Trans Iowa. I also need to get in touch with Craig Gordon and find out if he can get his 2006 24 Hour Solo mechanic to sign the 24 Solo poster when I send it to him. That is something else that needs to get going.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Hopefully Turning the Corner
206 pounds....
The weight hasn't been coming off, but at least I am eating better. Mountain Dews and Vaults are no longer an issue. Soda is a very hard thing for me to get over. Must be the sugar and stuff that is so addictive.
Yesterday I started my 2 hour spin classes at the YMCA with Sheryl. I seem to have forgotten if this is year 3 or 4 of doing these with her. But, whatever, they are a good leg and lung burner for this time of year. Something new this year, they are in Waukesha instead of West Suburban. Smaller room for the class, but still just as fun. I need to get the Off Road to Athens and 24 Solo CD's to her for inspirational music.
Otherwise, it is amazing that the Packers get to host the final game before the Super Bowl. I don't think anyone saw this coming. It is unreal how much the tickets are going for, over $400 a piece were the starting prices yesterday when I was looking.
Time to get back to working on the core and making sure my endurance is there. I have been riding the trainer in the basement and also using the treadmill. Switching back and forth. I'm trying to spice things up. Also trying to get my butt in better shape.
The weight hasn't been coming off, but at least I am eating better. Mountain Dews and Vaults are no longer an issue. Soda is a very hard thing for me to get over. Must be the sugar and stuff that is so addictive.
Yesterday I started my 2 hour spin classes at the YMCA with Sheryl. I seem to have forgotten if this is year 3 or 4 of doing these with her. But, whatever, they are a good leg and lung burner for this time of year. Something new this year, they are in Waukesha instead of West Suburban. Smaller room for the class, but still just as fun. I need to get the Off Road to Athens and 24 Solo CD's to her for inspirational music.
Otherwise, it is amazing that the Packers get to host the final game before the Super Bowl. I don't think anyone saw this coming. It is unreal how much the tickets are going for, over $400 a piece were the starting prices yesterday when I was looking.
Time to get back to working on the core and making sure my endurance is there. I have been riding the trainer in the basement and also using the treadmill. Switching back and forth. I'm trying to spice things up. Also trying to get my butt in better shape.
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