The RTA said it all - IT'S TIME TO RIDE! After sooooo many months off the bike it felt good to spin today - will I pay for it - probably - was it worth it ------ HELL YES!

Fun times with the Egg and riding 1.5 hours today. Now it is time to get really serious! Egg and Goose rode awesome - I was able to spin - felt like heaven.

Tuesday Ride

Wow - I'm impressed - I had my own little wind tunnel training this morning! Gusts were up to 20 mph when I was on Troy Fredrick - the corn fields made my own little wind tunnel ----- Mother Nature didn't get the message that I don't like wind tunnels!

Fun Weekend

This weekend has been busy and fun. Goose is coming off the Mthd's Mayhem week - resting as he has needed it. I am in full swing with my job, AJ, and his school (lunch room duty until they figure out the transfer of the epi-pens). New promotion for my job meant lots of extra hours. Little riding done by me this week but that is OK.

Saturday had Goose working and me at AJ's first soccer game. Got some cool photos so I sent them to the Editor, she decided to use one (YEAH). I was getting text messages from a number I didn't know to call back - I didn't call - then a call from "Mo" - I finally put 2 and 2 together and the strange number was Ron (aka Mthd).

We finally went to Mass on Sunday (which I have figured out it has been almost 3 months - due to riding/racing every Sunday). Sad when the Priest greets you with "Hello Strangers"! Talked to Crilli's parents after and heard about their great adventures in NYC - guess Crilli's Mom loved the subway - as she said - it was fast and fun.

Sunday afternoon I met Mthd to edit the photos from last weekend. Awesome programs to edit - they are on my wish list. After Goose and I went to AJ's Scout Roundup - was able to get a group photo (difficult with 6-9 yr olds) and sent some to the Editor - she is using one again - yeah.

Ron - thanks for taking the time to walk me through your programs - I know it takes lots of time to walk a newbie through it.

Hope this week brings some bike time for me and Goose.

Mthd's Mayhem

Not sure where the summer has gone, except a lot of time on the road, both on the bike and in the car. Not many blogs - Egg writes them so well with the pictures, I don't even try anymore. Everyone that wants to know how Goose did in his races, they know where to look, so really no need to write about them either.

But, what I will write about is pre-Mthd's Mayhem Ride. This course has been designed to test every particle of your mental and physical being. It won't be easy, you can count on it being hot, you know it will have extremely difficult climbs (as as Big Tim said - 27 Awesome Descents), and you know it was designed that way for a reason. Anyone who has stood by and watched someone go through treatment, survive or die from cancer is familiar with the difficult journey this is. Having lost both of my parents to caner, they never once made the choice to quit or give up. They both fought this battle with dignity to the very end. It wasn't easy, it definitely wasn't pleasant, it was an uphill battle the entire time, but they didn't quit.

This is what I expectt from the guys on Sunday. Yes it will suck, it will be difficult, it will be hot, but, it doesn't compare to the journey that my parents or Ron's dad took to the end. You have a choice to stop, they didn't - they had to continue their journey, that is a part of life.

So when you feel like quitting, please remember the ones that no longer have that option and dig a little deeper into that suitcase of courage, they did and so can you.

So I am DAYS Behind

As Egg informed me this morning, I am way behind in my blogging. Sorry :-).

We celebrated Goose's Birthday with an Egg made Duathlon - Bike 4.4 - Run 2.2 - Bike 4.4. The ones that braved this were Egg, Big Tim, Smoothy, Red Dawg, and Goose. Got a call from T-Bolt that he wasn't going to make it - next time Howard.

Had to chuckle, Red Dawg, Smoothy and Jeff all had their own little transition system - Red Dawg chair, Red Bull and P&J Sandwich (in memory of the old transition days). Jeff had his old man's chair with everything neatly arranged (then arranged again, then again - Jeff tends to move things 1/16 of an inch at a time).

Smoothy brought his bucket - said after West Milton Triathlon last year, he learned a lesson.

Egg is showing his "guns" off before the race. He looks ready to roll - errr walk/jog and roll.

Of course the typical before the start picture - see Vince they aren't all the same!

Obviously, you never know who Egg will get - Goose reaps the benefits of this day.

Egg was off first, then Big Tim, Smoothy, Red Dawg and Jeff.

Smoothy was on his single speed - he's nutz

Now here comes the best part - the run. Of course the tri guys seemed to enjoy this portion - Red Dawg doing well-

Who'll take the boy with the skinny legs? Goose and Smoothy coming back into the "transition area"

AND DRUM ROLL PLEASE ---------- Egg jogging and smiling - this will go down in Mad Cow history books - probably won't ever see this again.

Big Tim was "smart"? He was on the grass most of the time, switching to the road at the end and protecting his knees.

Reliving the "Official Mad Cow Duathlon" after everyone finished.

This was a fun day for us. The Cows gave it up and did something they probably didn't want to do, probably never will do again. Jeff enjoyed them coming into his little world for an hour. It wasn't about winning (OK maybe just a little since Goose won) but about living and having fun. Thanks to everyone - you helped make this yet another memorable birthday for Jeff.

Afterwards Smoothy headed home and the rest of us had lots of laughs at Bob Evans for brunch.

Arrival Day in Asheville

We got started a little later than I wanted but still had to stop for the traditional Cracker Barrel Breakfast! Dropped Jeff's truck off in Waynesville and headed south. Great weather, beautiful skies - clear view - lots and lots of unmarked state patrol cars. Amazing how the slow cars hug the fast lane. Oh well, once we hit the mountains, the view was beautiful.

We got here about 3 hours before Egg - got everything unloaded and put away. Talked to Egg about 80 miles out and Egg and Goose decided to ditch the ride for tonight. It was about 6:30 and we decided to get dinner and comeback and chill for a while.

Craig being the good sport elected to sleep on his air mattress. Had many comments about him blowing it up, but will reserve them for now. After dinner we were watching the Tour and Egg decided to eat a burger and cookies (glad the food won't go to waste this week)

Egg was tucking Goose into bed at 8:30- should I leave the room for a while? Haha.

As you can see, Goose didn't last long.

So what to do after Goose went to sleep? Of course Egg and I had to pick on Dobo! Between FB, email, twitter, we had a good chuckle.

Looking forward to today. Heading out for Dobo's house and riding a new route for Egg and Goose. Should be fun. Hopefully it will be a little cooler in the mountains.

Zanesfield in the Books

Ride will go down in the books as really hot and windy. Everybody stayed well hydrated and finished with "smiles" that it was finally over. As we headed home the showers hit. I think the rain probably would have felt good if they had been caught in them at the end.

I70 was a parking lot heading West - luckily it appeared that nobody would be seriously injured. I was amazed at the people backing back on the interstate or turning around and driving the wrong direction. Wonder what they thought when the State Patrol and tow trucks headed towards them. Vittles with Egg after Big Tim and TKO dropped him off.

Can't wait to read Egg's blog about the ride - cast of characters today.

More later.

West Milton Triathlon

Just a short note - Jeff and Rick came in Second Place. He is thrilled with the times and placement. Not back for an old guy :) Busy day - Triathlon in the morning, Joe Weinel's surprise 40th Birthday Party and then off to Jeff's 40th class reunion - yep Joe was born when Jeff graduated High School.

Have pictures and stats on the race that I will work on Monday - now off to ride - then to a vintage baseball game with Rebecca and family.

Monday

After missing 2 days of riding, I was happy to get out. Wanted to ride this morning before the rains set 9n (again). I headed out, not sure what route, but knew it would be the normal start. Winds of the direction that I love - which means a tail wind (or at least no head wind) heading home.

While on Peters Road I saw two bike ahead of me, so you know you have to try to catch up with them. I finally got behind them (which was cool cause the wind was coming from the SSW) and they were a "little" larger men. I sat behind them as long as I could, but needed to keep my mph up so I passed them. After turning on Jackson, I always stop at Jackson and Frederick Pike. I can't see around the trees and just feel safer stopping (and yes unclipping). My thought was I needed to get back on and keep riding, I certainly didn't want those guys to catch me.

Heading down Frederick, traffic wasn't too bad. Had something behind me that was passing, just sorta next to me. After Sunday, I was a little leery of looking over, but I saw it was a white truck and thought no way - it can't be Egg - yup it was. He stayed behind me, I think he had a cow prod out because all of a sudden, I felt good on the bike. We stopped at the 4 way and chatted for a minute. He asked if I was doing Antioch School - yes - but I decided to shake thing up and add in a few more miles.

With the new loop I added in I was just shy of 30 miles. I was thrilled - thanks Egg for the extra energy/motivation I got from you.

Today was a fun day on the bike.

Sunday's Legbreaker

You never know who is showing up for a long ride, but normally you know Egg, Big Tim and Goose will be there, depending on family obligations - can usually count on Mthd if it includes hills. Anybody else is always a good surprise and bonus.

We met Egg at Cracker Barrel Sunday morning for some excellent vittles. We talked about who might show up, like I said the 3 were definite. He also knew that Mthd was most likely in, T-Bolt had mentioned he wanted to ride but his daughter was in a ballet and needed to be there about 2 pm. The rides was designed such that at any given point you probably was no further than 10 miles from Twin Towers. Anybody could pull out at any time and head back to their car.

We pulled into Twin Towers to look up and see Smoothy pulling in. That was a nice surprise! Next was Mthd. I visited the "facilities" and came out to see another car that looked like Diesel! Wow - group is growing and the mph was just amped up with Diesel in for the ride. Egg got at call from T-Bolt he was on his way. The Big Tim Green Team Van was next (with an explanation he almost overslept). T-Bolt arrived fully dressed - cycling gloves and all!

Had to take the typical start of the race picture. I know some dislike this, but this might be the last time I catch everyone with smiles on their face at the same time. Egg can name every road by memory that they rode (so check out his blog for the blow-by-blow on that). But, you will see a theme for today's pictures - Goose gritting his way through the ride. I have learned not to take pictures as they get close to me - everyone puts on a smile just this isn't hard - it is all fun. So I opt to get photos when you are further away. Hmm, am I switching from my spandex fetish to see them with pain on their faces? Naw, but I think this shows the difficulty of the rides that Egg can create.

Like I said, I don't know the name of the roads, but I know everyone was riding as hard as their body would let them (well OK a couple of them could have ridden harder, but they took their extra energy to keep everyone together)

Everyone shared the love and took their turn out front. But like I said, it somebody fell off, there were a couple that would turn around and bring them back to the group.

The first climb of Devil's Backbone I was behind the guys. At the top we stopped for refueling of watch, potty breaks and cookies. Egg had made a comment to me that Jeff had climbed it in his big ring. What went through my mind, I hope he doesn't blow up!

Here is the Geritol group -all over the age of 50 - Yes T-Bolt, I said publicly you are over 50. At least I didn't say you were 58 (Oh wait that is what Goose will be July 1)

Once again, at the top of a climb - which Goose did really well (climbing) on Sunday.

I think this is Devil's Backbone and no he didn't make it the second time in his big ring.

Done and I think he was happy to be done. After the ride, quick chit chat - everyone had to head out - T-Bolt made it in time to see his daughter's solo, Big Tim was heading to the lake for some more fun.

Egg, Goose and I head to Skyline. Excellent food, fun company and we always solve the problems of the world.

Fun day - I did learn one lesson today - don't talk to strangers!

Thanks guys for another day to add to our memory books.

Catching up

I feel like I am always trying to catch this blog up! So - last week after Goose's triathlon he took it fairly "easy" on his legs. He spent a lot of time in the water trying to rehab them. Wed he got out of work late and had convinced himself he would just ride alone - hope Egg wasn't having any of that. Jeff ended up meeting everyone on Peters for the Wed Night Ride. I'm glad he did - he needed to ride hard and ride away his frustrations. He can home was in a much better mood :)

Me? I ended up riding 3 days. With the rain and having AJ the first two days, I was really happy with that. I had planned on riding Saturday, but my own dumbness got in the way and I ended listening to the birds sing for about 1 1/2 hours sitting on the porch. Bet I never do what I did again! I have had a good chuckle over it.

Little Miami Spring Triathlon

After Jeff finally found a partner (lol) - Wes Stephens - they had a 7:30 a.m. start time (yuck!). With all the rain we have had, Morgan's was updating the site all day Saturday and 5 a.m. Sunday morning. It was going to depend on the overall weather and the river. It was decided on Saturday that it would be held Sunday (no 2 week delay - too many out of town participants). So they would cancel the canoe portion if needed. Jeff definitely didn't want that - he loves to paddle and found out Wes does also.



Sunday morning the site said all systems go. So we headed out about 5:30 for Ft Ancient. After our annual stop of McD's for some toilet bonding we got to Morgan's with a drizzle of rain. River looked good and fast. Unloaded the canoe and headed to the top to drop off the bike and claim our space. Met up with Wes and his wife and headed down the killer hill. Jeff casually asked what time it was and Wes said "Oh about 7:30" - hmmm that is launch time. They took off running only to be stopped by a gentleman telling them not to hurry, the race is delayed an hour. Didn't really know why at that time, but a couple of minutes later the thunder and lightning was making themselves know. I couldn't believe the people sitting under the trees, some even leaning up against them. Gary Morgan announced a couple of times to please move away from the trees - people just looked at him. Oh well - nothing happened.



Time to get in the boat and get ready. They headed out into the water, between the wind and the current people were having trouble holding their place before the start. We saw one canoe run into the bank sideways and another tip over Not a good start for them. Jeff and Wes had found a place that they were alone. Both looked relaxed and ready to paddle.

As luck would have it, right before the fun, other canoes came from nowhere, crowding them. This canoe moved in and Wes said he didn't have anywhere to put his paddle. Wes' twin brother, his Dad and I were watching them struggle at the start. Will and I knew when they got in their stroke groove, they would be fine (and Jeff said they were the first out of the water).

It had started to drizzle again so I put my camera away. I didn't get any pictures of him coming up Killer Hill, but he was smiling. If anyone has been down there, they know what Killer Hill is. It is a HARD climb up a hill, mostly trail and couple of places with steps. It had rained so much, it was a muddy mess. When we were walking up it from the canoe start, a couple of places we would slip backwards. I worried about them making that climb. Wes looked great, and like I said - Jeff was smiling. It was predetermined that Wes wouldn't wait on Jeff. Wes is younger and a faster runner - but Jeff was only 4 minutes behind him. So hindsight is always better, would it be more beneficial for him to wait and ride together? Who knows. I know they both had to struggle through the crosswinds alone. You can only draft off your partner.

Wes was first across the line with a time of 2:06:15. He had wanted to break the 2 hour mark, but said he hadn't run fast enough. We thought Jeff was coming in second, but a guy had passed him and Jeff said their was nothing he could do about it. So he finished 3rd with a time of 2:12:38 - giving them a combined team time good enough to take 1st place overall in the Open Class.

I think this picture shows how happy Jeff is with his time. He said it was fun - canoe was a blast, run was ok and the bike sucked alone with the wind. But he was thrilled.

Not sure what kind of story Wes is telling here, but he looked funny with his helmet backwards. Anybody that knows him understands how nice and funny he is to listen to.

Afterwards, both of them were very happy with how things went today - delay and all. If was fun meeting his parents - his brother, wife and her parents were also there to add extra support.

Fun race - out of almost 1200 finishers, Jeff finished 7th place overall. Not bad for an old guy :) Egg called to congratulate him after seeing the results - thanks Egg!

Sunday Saddle Time

Sunday was up in the air. We didn't get hardly anything done Saturday afternoon after the race (we stuck around and helped clean up). We talked to Egg and he was willing to ride early from our house. He thought Big Tim was in, but not sure anybody else. When the Big Green Machine pulled in and the doors opened out came TKO, Mthd, Egg and Big Tim. Looks like Goose was going to get a great ride in today.

Egg asked if I was riding, - Yep. Wanted to get my domestic duties over first (grocery shopping) and I headed out of they left. Made it fast trip through Krogers and was successfully talking myself out of riding. I knew I would have hell to catch from Egg, so I hurried home and changed. I headed out - and the open road is exactly what the Dr ordered. I have missed riding. I struggled, but I deserved it.

Got home feeling so good, guys were all smiles and packed up and ready to roll out. They were telling me about our neighbor's dog breaking his chain and then the other dog getting "hit" or tapped by a car when he was chasing them. Funny retell of TKO trying to get the car to stop. Makes me angry when people don't heed the leash law - it is there for safety of the dog - get a clue people.

Sounds like they had an excellent ride also. No flats this time. We did get a little yard work done after everyone left. As I told Egg - when I start painting, he can keep Goose busy with riding.
Weather looks good for lots of riding this week. YEAH!

Second Race of the Year Equals Second Place (Again)

You just never know what you will get at the Sidney Triathlon. It has rained, been very cold, extremely hot - but I guess any day is a good day to race (right Egg?). We headed out early Sat morning having had heavy rain over night. You never want them to cancel the canoe portion - Goose loves to paddle on the river. As we crossed the bridge the water appeared to be moving fast, but not too high.

Once thing about the Sidney Triathlon, water wise they are extremely efficient. They have a rescue boat that heads out first to make sure everything is passable, they have a second one almost at the half way point that can assist if necessary.

Goose and Rick's start time was 9:08 - which is good and bad. You take re risk of people now knowing what they are doing and getting in your way. It seemed like there were many who were clueless in the canoe this morning. They were zig zagging across the river. Guess there was one run in with another canoe who has the zig zag going - they recovered and moved on.
A couple of solo runners had come into transition and I wasn't expecting Jeff and Goose so early. I was thrilled, that meant they had a fast canoe time (32:23 - fast canoe time -including solos and teams). His pass for the run was 6:35 per mile - not bad for a Grandmaster guy.

His run to bike transition was that bad (others were better, but they are younger and probably don't have that heart rate problem going). He looked good heading out on the bike and still had a smile on his face.

I didn't get them coming over the finish line. I don't think anyone expected them when they finished. I knew the numbers and what time they needed between them and Coundron/Barker - could they do it? Nope but Jeff did average 21.58 mph on the bike for a total time of 1:59:04.

As you can see - Goose and Rick are happy after the race. Rick had kissed Jeff, but missed that shot - couldn't get them to do it again. :)

This was a good race for both of them. I think it was good for Rick - he had lost his dad two weeks before and his mom is in the hospital with an infection in her heart. He has had a rough couple of weeks, I think this let his mind go elsewhere for a couple of hours.

Next up is Milton Triathlon - Rick is racing with Jeff again. Now can they perform? You betcha :)

Wed Night Fun

So who would have thought Goose would pull on the rollers? That is a poll question (lol). I would vote not me especially after he didn't finish the ride last week!!! BTW -glad I didn't plan on showing up and "surprising" Egg and Goose by taking pictures - guess I would have been sitting a long time at the corner of Evanston and Peters!!

Easter Bunny Took Our Chains

Happy Bunny Easter Day to all. Egg picked Goose up at 11:30 to head to Big Tim's house. He had a present for us - a CD of the Gangsta Goose Song! Goose said he had it playing all the way to Brookville.

My thoughts were I was going to wait until it warmed up a little. I was outside talking to Egg and realized that it was already warm. They headed out and I came into change clothes.

I rode most of my route - ended cutting 2 miles off the end - I really had enough of the wind blowing me sideways. They pulled in about an hour after me. I couldn't wait to tell them about my ride - They both gave me this "look" that usually means Jeff died. They gave me this long/sad story on how he did die. Me - I gobbled it up feeling bad because I had the best ride on a particular road. Then they both grin and tell me Goose, Big Tim and Egg were on an epic ride today. Goose actually said he lost his chain today. He doesn't say that ofter. I did get to hear how Jeff's face fell at the 40 mile mark when Egg told him they were riding 52 - guess it
was the typical Goose look.

Egg didn't want to hear about my ride - he just said BLOG IT - so this is it: Decided when I was still in our plat that I was not going to let the wind affect me - and I didn't. Rode my normal route and added in the Evanston Rd East to head back West. Made my circle down by the cemetery and headed West on Evanston- that damn climb was going to get me once again today. So, I turned around and went back to the cemetery and said a few choice words (that probably shouldn't be written here) and headed back up Evanston. Egg was in my brain - telling me it didn't matter how fast I climbed, just keep it even. I did and knew that my demons (both the hill and others) were gone - along with the chain. Damn that felt good. I can say this is one of the best rides outside I have had in a long time. AND YES THE TRAINER IN THE WINTER WORKS :)

Can't wait to read Egg's blog on today's ride for them.

That bunny can keep our chains for a few more rides. This was a fun day all the way around.

In or Out - Out or In

That was the question of the day. Sunday morning it was still raining and roads were wet. We all chuckle because Jeff will run in this kind of weather but not ride. All chuckles aside and ribbing he gets for this - when he runs, he doesn't run 25 mph - when he rides with the "gang" the mphs are high and the damp, not so warm weather, feels colder (I know duh). After phone calls back and forth Egg was riding outside today. Egg and I were both encouraging Jeff to ride outside. Reluctantly he got dressed and headed to Egg's house. About 10 minutes later I get a call from Jeff, I knew what was happening, he was coming home and wanted me to wait on him to ride trainers. He said it was a drizzle, windy and not as warm as it was suppose to get. Egg luckily had Mthd show up.

So on the trainers we were. The original plan for me was Have Mercy. With starting almost an hour late I changed to Hilacious. We both had a good ride, we pushed ourselves for hopefully the last trainer ride of the season.

We headed off to AJ's soccer game (which they won again - YEAH AJ's team). Jeff shared a thought with me that made me laugh so hard. Really Jeff - Did I need to know this? Ha ha. Also another Jeff funny - we cross over the river which was really high and running fast - Jeff's comment - He would love to be on the river right now. Hmmmm - now you can run and canoe in this weather but won't ride? Oh Jeff, never a dull moment with you :)

Sorry he didn't get out to ride, we both know he needs road time before GA. Looks like the weather will be better for this week. So I am sure he will be outside Wed. I will definitely stay in until the humidity declines - I don't like using my inhaler and I have to on days with high humidity. Spring time will be here before we know it, then we will be complaining about the heat!

Sunday JDRF Indoor TT

Well anybody that knows us well, would never guess that we would actually do an "official" Indoor TT. Egg and Big Tim caught us in a weak moment and we agreed back in January. The Feb one has been postponed due to the weather - this past Sunday was the day.

We met Egg on the interstate and followed him. The plan was to get there early, warm up and watch the first group. We got there, started setting up, greeted by the some of the nicest people - took a little of the nerves away. Egg warmed us up (just like we always do) - Goose and I are creatures of habit, and the warm up worked well. Time to get the bikes ready to move forward, tried not to think to much about it. They had a crew there that set up your bike and got it calibrated. I was on the end, then Egg, Goose and Big Tim. I mentioned to Egg that my handle bars were a little loose - they had somebody to tighten them (now that was service!). Right before we started Rick (Guru) walked in. It was fun to have most of the Cows present.

At the count down, I don't think Goose and I had time to get nervous. It just "happened" and we were off. I didn't wear my glasses so I couldn't really see the screen (not that I really wanted to). I could feel when I was hitting a climb. During one of the climbs, Egg was showing a couple of guys how to take pictures - I couldn't believe it - I was just trying to stay alive and he is getting his camera ready - nutz :). In our group - Egg finished first, Big Tim second, Goose third, and I brought up the rear finishing last in our group. It was cool - people cheering everyone on - you couldn't quit.

We stayed and watched a couple other groups ride. I asked Egg if it were awful of me to want to beat someone - I didn't want to come in dead nuts last. I did beat a couple of people - not many - but that it ok.

Goose has a blast and enjoyed the TT, at first I didn't want talk (I know - people are saying Noose not talk?) After I was able to take a deep breath I felt better. We talked on the way to AJ's soccer game and both said we would do it again. Egg - you have created a monster!

It was difficult, but now we know what to expect. I guess i is the fear of the unknown that stops me from doing things. So, I can officially say to Crilli - I finally got out of my box - I didn't venture far from it, but I did. Thanks to Egg for giving us that extra push. Also thanks to Big Tim and Guru for your support and encouragement.

Now, if only spring would show itself - life would be really good.

Sinday TT

Egg wants a blog - this is about all you get tonight: That was fun - it was hard - will do it again next year. Thanks to everyone that got us through it today (now that is an Academy Award speech with time limits). I will blog more tomorrow (Monday)

Friday Suffering

After almost a week of easy spins/no spins cause snow had to be removed, Egg was home and ready to torture us. Everybody was running a little late but we got down to business. Goose asked Egg what we were riding tonight - "No Slackers" was his answer. I was standing behind Egg and expressed my opinion (silently) :-p. I was wondering how Goose would ride tonight with the end of his work day getting screwed up - I was surprised, he hit hard from the start. We asked Egg how his legs felt - like usual - he was feeling good. Lord, was he going to have a no chain day after his last week? Probably, he always rises to the occasion!

During the super spins Egg gave a little extra coaching/prodding to Goose and I. Keeps things fun and interesting. Before I knew it time for the 5K TT which meant we were almost done. Time passed quickly tonight - it always help when Egg is in the house.

After the ride, I tried to get dinner fixed as fast as I could - seemed like the pot just didn't want to boil. Got it done in time to send a vittles box with Egg to his gig. I hope he was able to eat it while it was warm, I don't think it would taste good cold.

Looks like a good long ride on Sunday.

Recharged

After snow days, Goose coming home to dig out the driveway - not much more snow today - just a little blowing/drifting. We had one "lane" on the driveway still clear so we finally were able to ride. We debated on what to ride and chose an "easy" one so Jeff could clean off the drive after riding.

Recharge - we haven't done that one in a long time. I don't think either one of us really remember what it was. Lots of fast spins @ 3 minutes x 5 = not bad :) First two we really easy - fun fast spins. Third one big chain/15 - one again easy until he said "You will stand for the 3 minutes". Didn't drop the f bomb - I had to laugh - Egg would love it. It almost felt easy (finally). Rest of the DVD was pretty much the same - just really fast spins. I know this helped Jeff's legs to spin the junk out.

If we have another snow day tomorrow - it will be Hillacious plus TT for me - Goose is getting in the water (since our schedule has been messed up this week). Thur will be a run day for him and Friday, Egg will be back to torture us even more.

First Apollo Memorial RIde

Anyone that has been keeping up with Egg's blog knew that he had made a decision to put Apollo down. This has been coming on for probably a month or two. With his trip to FL scheduled, his mom still recovering from her surgery and his dad and step-mom facing a possible trip, Egg made the right decision - Friday.

When he called Friday night on his way to our house, I knew by his voice that he had done it. I could tell how heart broken he was, which also brought double tears for me. We have always joked that Craig was the son we never had (or we tell our daughter - the brother she always wanted). Craig is family to us, and when he hurts, Jeff and I also hurt. Having just lost Yo Yo, I knew the emotional pain he was in.

He showed and and brought his new TDF collection. We warmed up to Lance catching the leaders in 2009 (of course Egg can tell you exactly where and when - and even told us to watch a guy along side the road who fell down - has he seen this a couple of times?). It was time to suffer, work out the emotions and give a tribute to Apollo - so it was No Slackers Allowed. I must admit I have seen Egg have a good trainer ride, but this was light years above that. It was a very quiet ride, typically he will try to push Goose's buttons - he did get one really good one out (which did make Goose smile). I know Goose and I rode as hard as we could - Goose coming off a hard run on Thur, he had already said his knees were a little sore - but he gave it all he had.

Post ride, not many laughs tonight. I had been cooking sauce all day (which Egg did smell when he came in). We settled down to eat and just share pictures and stories. We enjoyed Egg's company and hope we were able to take his mind off the day (if only for a few minutes).

We are gonna miss Egg next week while he is in FL. Hope his weather is good - I hope his trip to the ocean to release Apollo brings him peace. Safe trip and see ya when you get home.

Catch Up

Wow - haven't blogged much lately. Lots of stuff going on and it just seems I think I will do it later. Guess one week is a little later :)

Last Wednesday Egg came up for an indoor trainer ride (bet you didn't guess that one!). Let him decided which one and he wanted No Slackers. Never get tired of that one. Egg and Goose were both on a great ride that night. Egg wanted me to put the tension on the highest for the 5K TT - ouch! I usually ride the medium, but as he says "How bad do you want it". I know this will give me more strength in the end.

Thur was a run night for Goose, just an easy spin day to some TDF. We knew the snow would be coming in soon and wasn't really looking forward to it.

Friday was suppose to be a trainer ride with Egg but due to the weather he decided to stay home. Goose and I debated on what to ride and we both decided to just take the night off (which was actually fun). I had stretched for about an hour, so I didn't feel too bad about it.

Sunday, was suppose to be the indoor TT but was cancelled due to weather. We had plans to go to AJ's indoor soccer game after it, so we just went on the the game. Fun watching 5-6 yr olds playing. They had a guest instructor from England. Loved listing to him talk - really worked on skills with them.

When we got home, once again the debate on what to ride. Goose picked Aerobase Builder. He was on a good day (again), I just made it through (need to get my head of out my a@@).

We having a boring life don't we!

Funday

Sunday was a day of fun - ok you people that are saying - ARE YOU KIDDING ME - Nope - it was fun. The fun started when everyone got to the house. TKO, Guru and Red Dog have been to the house a couple of times, Big Tim came for the TT - of course Egg comes up 3 times a week to keep Goose and I in line (THANK YOU for sticking with us!) and Rhino - never has made a ride here. Was happy to see him come down for some fun. I was a little worried how were going to fit everyone in - Egg promised it would work, and it did. Thank heavens we all get along, cause it was close quarters - all within elbow distance.

Everybody was set up and ready to roll (well so to speak, except Guru - he brought his rollers and trainer). I was really concerned about completing the three hours - the cold has left me not being able to breathe. We started and things seemed to be going really well. Egg and I were chatting as normal - funny comment came from Rhino about not riding hard enough. Egg assured him the chatting would settle down soon, and it did.

Egg wanted pictures along the way, I tried to snap a couple while riding, I am still working on that talent. We had the normal jump off and grab water on a 2 minute easy spin but for the most part everyone was down to business. Egg would look over and ask everyone how they were doing, he got anything from a grunt, thumbs up or Big Tim's "good".

I was sailing along with everybody's encouragement until "something" got in my way. I looked down and my white sheer curtain in stuck in my chain - Chuck is yelling to put on my brakes - my head was so foggy from my cold, my thought was why? I'm on my trainer - you don't use your brakes! After using my brakes, getting the curtain out, I spun on. Everyone was on an excellent ride, Goose had let out nary a Goose call (well at this time), Red Dog had his head down and was getting through it, Mr Don't Take Pictures Cause They All Look The Same Rhino actually had a few different facial expressions, TKO had reminded us of his "spells" (which went through my mind, Oh Lord not today, you have no where to fall), Big Tim had his best poker face on, Guru was done on his rollers and switched to trainer, Egg - just as upbeat, chatty and encouraging as ever.

I had turned on the oven during on the breaks and "smelled" something - forgot to get the pan out of the oven - jumped off - grabbed it out and then got back on my bike (all without a penalty). My bike wasn't spinning right - gears didn't seem to shift. Rode it out until the next break, Egg got off to check the tension - it was fine - I had a flat tire. I felt bad, they were trying to use an extra wheel, it wasn't going on right. It was taking some time and I could see everyone was getting a little concerned over the amount of time. I was ready to throw in the towel and tell them to finish the last hour without me - but Guru got off his bike and was able to get the wheel to work. I know my legs felt like lead - I can't imagine what the other's felt like - Sorry guys!

We had lots of laughs the last 30 minutes with comments being made by people (one in name - Goose - which I hope he doesn't regret this summer). The last 3 minute set Egg changed up - big chain/12 last 90 seconds standing. My thought was are you f%cking nutz? Everyone else was game and I sure as hell wasn't going to be the only one that didn't. I was able to stand each time, although one time I did stop pedaling, deciding if I was going to sit down - Egg looks over and talked me through it (which I am thankful for).

I think everyone was happy the 3 hours were over. It went by very quickly (well for me it did).
TKO had to leave but everyone else was able to stick around to awhile. It was fun to see the guys sitting around the table eating and talking - these are the times that I wouldn't trade for anything. It makes the training/suffering/sweating all worth it.

I am looking forward to warmer weather and getting out on the road, but I will miss days like Sunday. I have people to ride with/motivate me/encourage me not to quit. Hopefully I have learned many new lessons this past winter to carry me through the outdoor riding.

I looked at the pictures last night - different people, body types, goals for the year - all having fun together. It doesn't get much better than that.

Tough Love

This blog will have to wait until Monday. It certainly was a full house with TKO, Goose, Red Dog, Guru, Big Tim, Rhino, Egg and Noose. I am too tired (but satisfied) to blog tonight.

Missed a Few Days

I can tell I haven't felt well - my mind was fuzzy and got days/dates messed up - unusual for me! Anyway - Egg came up Wed night with the reassurance that I am not contagious. I did stay away while they rode. Egg chose my favorite - Hills Baby :) I knew Goose probably would not have ridden, so I am glad Egg was in the house. I could hear him starting to push buttons about half way through - it felt weird to hear them and not be riding. Goose seemed to be happy with the ride, He has been working really hard this month (and it is ONLY January - Yes Jeff we know that ----- but you lose that excuse in a couple more days!). Between running hard and riding hard - hopefully he will see a big difference when he gets on the road (earlier than last).

Egg plans on coming up Friday night - I am still up in the air if I am riding. Sunday will be a long hard day - not sure if I want to chance not being over this crap.

Monday?

Yep it was Monday - that is what the calendar said! Goose did his normal workout at the Y. He actually got out of work on time - not many people at the Y so he workout went fast.

The cold that I caught from a couple of kids at school caught up with me. Decided to take a night off - not what I wanted to do but thought it was best. I get a little ticked off when people send their kids to school sick - love it - Oh I didn't know they were coughing that bad - or I didn't realize that green/yellow stuff was coming from their nose!

I think Jeff was feeling Fri/Sat/Sun hard workout in his legs. I'm lucky - my legs feel good - it is just the stuffy head that is getting me!

Good Day of Training

As long as the weather is crappy there is a standing time on Sunday for trainer rides. They are typically longer and you just never know what it will be or who is coming (well except the usual nutz - Goose, Egg and me). Today it looked like TKO and Red Dog were heading to Tipp also. Got an email from TKO that his daughter was sick and needed to stay home. Mad Dog left a message last night that he was definitely in.

Saturday Jeff ran with Mark and they got in about 9 1/2 miles of trail running. Jeff said his legs felt "OK" for the miles he ran yesterday.

After the good ride Egg had outside with Rick, Tim, Vince and Todd I had sent him a tweet about adding the Prologue and Super Spins at the end of No Slackers to the end of Dropping The Hammer - he was in - we just think Goose needed to know ahead of time.

We warmed up to Lance TDF for a few minutes and then it was time to get down to business. There were a few times that Egg was the only one able to talk - so he talked, cheered and coached us. That hour went by very quickly - everyone was working hard. I put in the second DVD - Goose knew we were doing the Prologue but didn't listen to everything we said, so he went all out and thought he was done - nope he had a little more to go - the look on his face was priceless! For the cool down he got off a little early - so he had to ride a little extra for his penalty time.

After the ride we chatted for a couple of minutes and everyone headed home. Another excellent training day in the books. Thanks Egg for the coaching - Mark glad you were able to make it ------ Now next Sunday - is another run of Tough Love ---- hmmm who will show up (well beside Egg, Goose and I)?

HA HA HAAAAA

Friday night trainer ride in the books - thank heavens. Egg got here a little early so we could get a few minutes warm up before Goose got home. He announced what was on the agenda - I asked if told Goose - Yep and he said Goose was up for it. I wondered if he talked to "my" Goose!

Goose got home and changed, jumped on for a few minutes of warm up and it was time to get busy on No Slackers. This has an excellent mix of everything we need - fast spins, standing, 5k Prologue. Goose is usually making his famous sounds about 10 minutes in - tonight he hung tough and barely made any noise. The one time I could really use him to drown out the room with his calls - he doesn't. I have to admit I let out a little one, hoping nobody heard it - wrong - Egg casually mentioned it while we were eating.

It was a good ride - Egg and Goose were spinning their legs off - I was hanging on but having fun. Of course, I asked Goose if he had fun - Yep - since we were all done - which is the usual answer for him.

Dinner after was just as fun as ever. We (err me - ha ha) solved all the problems of being married which brought laughs from the guys. Talked about upcoming events and had lots of laughs. Isn't that what life is about - working hard, playing hard and laughing about it afterwards?

Sunday will be a long day on the trainer - looking forward to it.

Recovery Day

After last night's trainer ride, recover was on tap for Goose and I. Goose had planned a water workout to get the junk out of his legs. I wanted to spin, a very easy one. I had to go to Sam's Club first and I always stay on I-75 during rush hour - headed down 25A and got about a mile from the house with a detour. Couldn't tell what was going on - looked like maybe a wreck. On the way home - started home on 25A - almost got to the old Ginghamsburg Church and total stand still - pulled a U turn and headed down back roads again.

I was 30 minutes out of sync with the time I wanted to be in - do I ride - to say to hell with it. I serious changed my clothes and sat down on the couch - kicked my self in the butt and changed into my cycling clothes. One hour in the saddle and feel great - best thing I could have done.

Just watched the news and found out somebody had put a bomb in the house that had been foreclosed on in the area that was block off. Just found out somebody I worked with was showing the home and found the "bomb" ticking. Luckily got everyone out and called police ----- People are Nutz!

Riding Away the Stuff

I think most are aware of what is going with Egg's mom and many have expressed thoughts, prayers and support to get through this life's trial. It looks like everything was discovered early - which is excellent. Many years ago I was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer in Stage 2. I was young and probably in denial. I had a family and it was my job to take care of my family. I somehow think Egg's mom will probably be the same. She is going to have a rough road for a while but will come out strong. After all, Egg had to get his hard head and determination from somewhere - which I would say is from his parents.

Tonight's agenda was Hillacious. Egg, Goose and I rode our hearts out tonight. I think in our own little way we were helping Egg's mom through the night. We all rode hard. It was a quiet ride, which is VERY unusual - but we all had our own thoughts and agenda for tonight.

Afterward - dinner, rut beer, popo juice and good conversation. Once again, thanks Craig for an excellent workout and positive talk afterwards. You say we could do it without you - no we couldn't - we wouldn't want to.

Good Training Day

Tuesday was a good day! Goose had a training day and got out early. He headed for his Tuesday run, saying he would join me on the trainer when he got home. I thought I would be home about 45 minutes before him, so I told him I was starting without him. Things worked out that I didn't so we stated at the same time. After his hard run he only stayed on the trainer for 21 minutes - plus he had to make a delivery close by. I stayed on the trainer and had a blast watching Lance in his early TDF days. I was able to stay on for an hour with lots of standing (getting ready for our Wednesday night torture ride).

After riding Goose called Egg about his mom - no real news - surgery had a major delay - still keeping positive thoughts for his mom.

Looking forward to our Wednesday Nite Trainer ride.

MLK Training

Since I (Noose) had the day off I had planned a long recovery spin. AJ and Rebecca had a difference idea. She wanted me to go to lunch with them and then bowling. I haven't bowled in over 30 years. I had lunch with them, but begged to just watch them bowl - AJ was having nothing of me watching. I "shoed" up and we bowled. It came back fairly quick (with the aide of the bumpers!). I actually had a great time., When I got home hopped on the bike for an hour lazy spin.

Goose did his usual Monday at the Y and lifted weights. Ran into a guy that "raced" in the past. Said he did Crankenstein (which we found) put couldn't find his Speedy Feet Triathlon he did last year. As we know, everyone can talk a big game, so who knows what he has really done.

I do have to admit Monday morning, our legs felt the TT. I didn't hurt at all after the first one - but I did this one (and I rode slower?). Oh well - 3 weeks to get our heads out of our you-know-whats and train hard.

Indoor TT #2

Set the time a little earlier today. Wanted to make sure TKO could fit it into his schedule. Egg was here first, then TKO - and then the man with equipment - Guru - he is the trainer man! Big Tim was in the house and we were waiting on T-Bolt and Red Dog. Egg got a text msg from T-Bolt - he couldn't make it and we never hear from Red Dog. Not sure what happened with him.

TKO was up first, Goose second, Big Tim third, Egg (Ditch Digger) fourth, Guru fifth with me literally bringing up the rear. The guys rode awesome - crushing the numbers from the last time. Me? I survived. Not sure what happened - was slower than last time. BUT, thanks to Egg and Big Tim, we (I) have a chance to redeem myself on Feb 7th. They have signed Goose and I up to do the Team Dayton TT - Thanks guys (I think!). Time to get serious and figure out what will make me faster.

WTG Team Mad Cows - you guys rode extremely well.

Bday Ride

Egg emailed and called that he could come a little early to get extra saddle time in - that was great - I was glad to get the extra time in. Goose was running a little late but when he got home he was ready to roll. With the conversation I had with him while he was changing, I thought Oh no here we go again, he was going to have a bad ride. Nope, he showed up and showed us.

Egg had a gig after the ride so it needed to be short - he decided on Zoot. Yep it is short - 41 -42 minutes of a good hard workout. It is getting easier for me to stand in little chain-15. I know it is all the DVDs that he has chosen that really targets the standing. I complain about them - but appreciate him pushing Goose and I past our comfort zone to make us better.

Looking forward to Sunday's indoor TT at out house. Looks like a good crowd - will be interesting to see how people have progressed in two weeks.

Thursday Recovery

After a hard ride on Wednesday, Goose opted for a water workout. Mark had run on his own and said he had a great run - Yeah Mark :). Egg was lucky and got his much needed outside ride with Big Tim, Bottabing and Guru. With his mom's health issues, nothing like the open road to clear his mind (oh no I just admitted he has a mind!).

I opted to have an hour of stretching that I have neglected lately. Worked out all the kinks (from old age) and felt great when I was done.

Jeff and I both knew we would have a hard trainer ride on Wednesday night, so recovery was just was the Dr ordered.

Sufferin' Succotash

I can always tell by talking to Goose on the phone when his day has struggled at work, and today was one of them. I read a tweet by Egg that his mom was taken to the ER. Prelim info isn't good, but it can be wrong. I know we all hope it is wrong. Definitely something wrong, but let's hope it is the lesser end of what it could be.

I think all three of us needed to get rid of "stuff" and sufferin' on the bike is the way to do it. With the Spinerval chosen (SufferOrama), you really had to give up your personal problems to survive the ride. Once again, stand up ---- sit down was the drill. I am finding that standing is less stressful than a month ago. Goose rode really well, at 100+% the entire ride. Egg put down some impressive numbers (again!) while cheering/coaching us on. The time ticked away very quickly (apparently not fast enough for Goose) and we were done. I know everybody felt better and sat down to eat and chat.

Goose went to bed to watch UD play - I doubt if he saw 10 minutes of the game. He ran hard Tues night and rode hard tonight - it is that transition time again ---- only this time it is in January not April, I know he will realize his hard work has paid off come racing season.

Snow Run

It's Tuesday so it means Goose ran. He met Mark (Red Dog) again tonight for his run. He just got home with a smile. Said he tested the legs and said they felt good. Let's see how they feel after Torture Wednesday!

I spent the entire afternoon testing a Kindergarten class. How can that make me so tired? Don't know but did get on the trainer to Lance Porm for 45 minutes. Felt good to unwind and do something for me.

Oh my what will Wednesday bring on the trainers?

Lance Monday

Usually on Monday's I struggle with how my legs feel because Egg and Goose and worked them really hard. Sunday was a struggle ride, but today my legs felt really good.

Goose was going to work out at the Y tonight and had a really good one. At our age - ya gotta keep moving.

Egg left his Lance "porn" again for me, so I spun for 90 minutes just enjoying watching Lance ride. It's funny, you know the results, but I still find myself pedaling faster to help him.

Dinner done, Goose is cleaning kitchen and it will be night night time soon. Fun day today.

Lifting the Lid

Today was the day to do that for Egg. He decided to nut up and go for it. He registered for the Team Dayton TT and showed up and put it down. WTG Egg. The results are still being posted, but at this time Egg is running 3rd overall locally - YEAH.

After his TT he came up and decided to further torture Goose and I. Coach Troy and Mt. Lemmon was awesome today. Once again he shook up the workout and had us standing through the DVD - Hills Baby - and what a Coach Troy view! I kept thinking how much longer on the Big Chain 13 - oh not to worry ----- we got to change gears - Big Chain 12 for the rest of the climb. At one point I really wanted to give up but Egg came up with some funny remarks (that can't be published - this is a family friendly site) that kept me going. Good ride - thanks to Goose and Egg I didn't give up today.

This week he will be helping us concentrate on getting ready for the next indoor TT on Sunday. I know I want to better my time and I know Goose wants to better his distance :) No famous dismounts on Sunday.

Frigid Saturday

Goose has to work so he met Mark (Red Dog) to run after work. He said the snow is hard to run through but he had a good run.

Me? I took advantage of Egg leaving his TDF DVD and got my fix of Lance winning.

Got some financial crappy news - but will ride that away tomorrow. Oh how I love banks (not)!

Brazilian Friday

Egg emailed and wanted to come a few minutes early to get more time in before Goose got home. Luckily, I was able to get home so he could. No school for AJ but Rebecca's school didn't close. So, I was definitely ready for adult conversation :)

We warmed up to Egg's TDF - watching Lance is always motivating. He choose Zoot Challenge. It has been over a year since we used that video and I had forgotten what it was. Guess we have a theme of standing and torturing Noose going on. I know it will definitely make me stronger on the road. We had fun with me not caring for the 1 minute standing followed by the seated spins. Egg had to get off his bike for a few seconds and Gooses issued a penalty - which Egg did. I forgot to stand on one rep, so I took mine also.

The sights during the video were good for the guys. I had fun making comments. Always a good workout with Egg and Goose. I think everyone had demons to ride away Friday night and we felt better when done.

Once again, food, rut beers, popo juice with fun conversation.

Let it Snow

Thanks to the person who invented the trainers! Had a solo spin this afternoon - much more fun with others. Got it done and that is all that matters.

Goose "thought" about running outside with Mark tonight. He rethought that and then said he was getting in the water. Plans have changed - coming home to clear away the snow. Giving his legs a rest for one day won't hurt him.

Slackers Were Excused Tonight

Nice cold night - actually I was freezing. Goose wanted to open windows and turn on the fan - guess he didn't hear me that I WAS COLD! Egg came after lessons and we warmed up to more Lance porn. After a good 45 minute warm up - OK I wasn't cold anymore. Egg chose No Slackers and the game faces were on. Windows were opened, fan on - game on.

Once again, Egg cheered us on, pushed appropriate buttons, penalized the Goose 20 seconds (except he made all of do the penalty) and we had a blast. Good hard workout.

Homemade Veggie soup after. Talked about the next indoor TT at our house, Egg set the schedule. We solved the problems of the world again tonight over Rut Beer and PoPo Juice.

Fun!

Oh Goose

What are you gonna do with him? He won't ride his bike when it is 25 outside, but he will run on the slick/ice trails when it is 10? Now that doesn't sound right to me. He did run tonight, outside with Red Dog. He has a little slip and slide on the ice - but he is proud that he got right back up and got back into his groove. Don't need any more falls on the trails!

Me - came home and just spun again tonight - no DVD - just TV. I went between the big and middle - 23 and 12 - seated and standing. Just wanted to get the rest of the junk out before Wed night.

Monday Grind

Wow - back to the normal grind for both of us. The alarm went off too early!!! Goose headed to work and I headed over to AJ's (which made him happy).

After getting him to school, I headed back home and got on the trainer and rode for about an hour - just easy spinning - wanted to get rid of the junk - my legs actually feel really good.

Goose headed to the Y for a workout - giving his legs another day rest (Tues he will be running with Mark outside). I surprised him - I had already built a fire (yep girls can do that also), dinner fixed and ready to eat. Off to bed where it is warm.

• BTW - I intentionally drove Evanston this afternoon, thinking B&*ch - you're mine this summer :)

Sunday Fun

Sundays always bring a new adventure. Ya' just never know what we will ride to or do. This Sunday was no different. Got an email from Egg saying that the Guru was coming up to ride - cool - Rick is always fun, especially when he brings his rollers!

Doorbell rang about 11:40 - knew it couldn't be Rick, he is NEVER early (sorry Rick!). Egg always calls so we can open the garage door - opened the door and it was TKO. He was able to make it again (twice in one week) to ride.

Egg showed up next and explained that Guru was bringing his rollers AND his computrainer to do a Time Trial on. We warmed up to a nice 45-60 minutes on the trainers to Egg's Bike "porn" DVD with Lance. My legs felt good, no real extra aches or pains from the NYD HC100. Goose had worked his legs pretty hard on Saturday in the water. Between Jan 1 ride and 2nd water workout his quads were feeling "it".

Rick got his trainer hooked up to the TV and the ride order was established - TKO, Goose, Egg, Guru and maybe me if I decided to go through with it.

TKO showed is suffering through his sweat dripping and his funny facial expressions. Excellent ride for him, next Goose. After almost 3 miles he stopped, his quads were sore and he has a long race season again this year and didn't want to push it or take any chances. Egg was next - wow - the TT started and he never let up. Impressive watts, mph and time. Great poker face on him also. Rick wanted to go last, he needed to get his legs warmed up, so it was now or never for me.
I wasn't totally convinced that I could do this - but then I thought if I am always afraid of failure, I will never have the opportunity of success. So, I got on my bike (nervous). Egg got on his bike back on his trainer and jumped on to cool his legs down. He told me which gear to start in, I closed my eyes and started. The one nice thing is he has ridden with Goose and I enough to know how we ride - he also knows when he spins faster, that makes me spin faster. With his coaching, Guru's counting down the distance at the end, I made it. And, I have to admit, it was fun. Looking forward to when Rick can bring it back for another TT.

Afterwards, I warmed up leftovers - Rick had his after ride snack - we all sat and enjoyed stories and laughs.

Thanks to Goose, Egg, Guru and TKO for another successful/fun day in the saddle,

Day 2

Wasn't sure what day two would bring. Surprised that I could walk with no pain except the left knee (which is everyday). Goose said he could feel a "little" in his legs, but after his water workout - all is good. A good spin Sunday with Egg will work out the junk.

I have to say New Years Day was fun. Goose and I were a bit nervous - knew it would be 5+ hours of hard saddle time. Mark (Red Dog) actually was at the house first - ready to roll. I did my best to talk him into 4 hours - but gotta remember Buckeyes are very dear to him and no way was he riding that long. Plus, his saddle time has been very little.

Egg arrived next, he usual chipper/motivating self. Full of pep talks for everyone while setting up. He brought his tripod to get a picture of everyone (where is Mthd when ya really need him?) We moved furniture in anticipating of Chuck (TKO), Big Tim and maybe T-Bolt.

Chuck arrived next sporting his new trainer. I guess I don't remember his trainer from last year (must have been the medication I was on!). He sat up in his usual space, next to the fireplace, except this we didn't burn a fire the night before! He also appeared to be very motivated. He has changed his hours back to 5 days instead of 4, which allow him more time to ride.

Egg missed a call from Big Tim so Chuck called him back. Big Tim was under the weather and opted out for the fun ride. We missed his one-liners that definitely crack everyone up.

Egg got a text message from T-Bolt - he couldn't make it - but made up for it by sending text messages during the ride and we talked to him afterward (sorry Howard, I was a blubbering idiot - I was tried and probably didn't make any sense).

The ride? It ROCKED!! There were times I would just stare at the floor - I was "talking" to myself - giving myself valid reasons to continue - ride as hard as I could (plus staring at another woman's breast didn't really interest me) It was difficult, the last hour was really ramped up - I think Coach Troy was trying to kill everyone. Egg started giving us the mileage count down - the last couple of miles I wanted to yell "PEDAL FASTER DAMN IT", I just wanted it over. We didn't quit (well, that wasn't even an option).

The next great adventure - January 17th - Tough Love - celebrating me (Noose) holding off another year of getting older. Let's see who is up for that one!

Happy New Years Fun Day

Wow - first day of the year and marked off a very important goal ----- The ENTIRE Hardcore 100 ---- standing and all - DONE. YES :) Expecting maybe 7 - Big Tim was sick, T-Bolt just couldn't fit it in (next year Howard!) - TKO knew he couldn't stay the entire ride and Red Dog did want to get hurt (he has ridden in a while), So we started with 5 and ended with 3. What an accomplished feeling for all - nothing held back (comments especially). I can't even think of the funny moments (I'm sure Egg can at this point) but I can say DAMN that was FUN!

More tomorrow with pictures.