Monday Night at the Ball Fields

Ian played the late game (8:30pm) last night at Cooper so we chowed some home dinner then turned the car south for a little action on the diamond. It was a fun and exciting game as Ian's team won in extra innings 15-14. Jake hung out with me in the dugout for most of the game and although he won't openly admit it he was into the game and cheering tons. The boys are playing pretty solid, but like any 8 yr old group have their moments of 'being 8 yrs old'. That being said, I thought I was a decent ball player as a kid, but compared to the level these boys play I am re-thinking my youth skills (or lack there of).

My mom and pop showed up (they are always there) and brought my grandma (Mildred Smith) for her first time watching Ian. That was way cool to see four generations together at a ball game. Afterwards we all snacked at Andy's (fresh blackberries - mmmmm) and then parted ways. It was a beautiful evening weather wise. Ian and Jake both dropped as soon as we got home.

Side note - not a rocket scientist and never claimed to be as Deb will testify, but during Sunday's race and after watching tons of folks skipping pedals in corners all weekend I figured out why I hadn't (I was taking the same lines and leaning in pretty good just like everyone else) - because I am a loser who crit races on a cross bike I get 2cm more BB clearance and thus no touch down - nice.

Fitness: Monday - Rest Tuesday - basketball at noon and easy spin with Deb tonight (still a little spent from the weekend)

Final Day and Back Home

Woke up to some of Crusty's home brew (mmm, good coffee) and some Belgium waffles w/blueberries (for some as they weren't shared equally). Slowly got around, loaded up the truck, and headed downtown KC for the final day of Tour of KC (#1). We had no idea of the course layout until we got there and my first thought was 'oh crud, we are climbing again', but it turned out not too bad as it was all power and the hurt didn't last long. Simple four corner layout with a good punch of a ascent at corner one, flatten off out of turn two, drops down to three, drops a little more to turn 4 then a riser to the finish. 60+ racers in my field and shortly after the start whistle I see Crusty pegging it off the front... let's reflect on the conversation before the race start 'JJ, I'm looking to last 30 minutes today' (to his credit he did go 1 minute past the previous two days so it was positive day). I am not sure how many laps that lasted (a couple I suppose and I know in his race recap he'll explain how he softened the field up for myself and KLew. As the race went on little by little folks started disappearing off the back; I should know as the entire day I sat back there watching them go and then would jump around to the pack and so on and so one... My plan was to hang out in the middle rear until a handful of laps to go and see what I had left; it worked yesterday and if it ain't broke don't fix it (in reality I didn't have the legs to do any work up front today so why be there screwing everyone else up as the pace was fine the way it was). With five to go I move up a little and with four a little more then on the next lap we were told FINAL LAP; we were all like what the heck! At that time I was too far back to make a serious charge and rode in at the back of the main field (17th place - 20 left in the lead pack). Turns out KLew was caught up in a wreck and they had to shorten the race to get the ambulance on the course. Initial indications were he broke or dislocated his collar bone (get well soon buddy).

I stuck around a little bit to watch some Cat 5 carnage (first turn first lap 5 go down - nothing too bad, but interesting). Loaded up the rig, turned it south, and headed for home.

Stopped by Osceola Cheese (first time ever in there) and picked up some goodies for the drive and for later. Got some big hugs from both boys which kept a smile on my mug for the rest of the evening. Split a couple chess matches with Jake and general took the evening pretty easy. Even though it was only three days it was good to get home.

As an overall recap of the weekend it was great racing (11th, 4th, 17th and always with the lead group/chasers) on super courses and it builds confidence in the ground work layed. I especially enjoyed catching up with good friends; C & C were awesome hosts (thanks tons guys!) and between races it was super relaxing with a lot of laughing. Always fun to check out Crusty's toys (his basement has more cycling stuff then most LBS (especially like the two Edge forks and Edge carbon wheelsets - the boy has more 'hook ups' then an RV park), but my fav is still the Seven and Corey's Steelman or maybe her Look decked out with Sram Red - tough one there. Speaking of hook ups, I folded to peer pressure and joined up with the MWI crew and now I have a couple items of interest in the works; one in the garage, a couple Sunday suits in productions, and hopefully the topper on the way in a couple months (this is going to be a fun year of cross).

Next up... NOTHING until Queen City crits in late July, nothing in August (saving a little cash for items of interest), then mid-Sept it starts. I had a great spring/early summer between mtb'ing and crits and now am taking a little easy time on the cross bike and re-hitting the strength training, then ramping back up in Sept for the main season. Dale let me know his sister lives in Bend, OR and she opened up her basement for us in December. He is trying to plant seeds to get me to road trip... we'll have to see, but it's hard to pass up such a sweet setup and he is always a great travel partner (and imagine there is always room for another...).

Fitness: Seriously!?!?! ...have you not read the last three days - I'm tuckered out!

Number 2 in the Books

Had a fun day doing a whole bunch of nothing with Craig (and Max their dog); very restful and relaxing. Way hot outside midday and wasn't looking forward to this evening's race as the temps hovered around 100* with 40% humidity. Around 6:30pm we kitted up and road over to the Lee's Summit downtown course (a 5mile ride) and this evening I let Craig set the pace as I didn't want him burning any candles before the gun (as I haven't heard him quite whining about yesterday's roll over to Longview and his '150+ HR') . On the way over it started raining and it didn't let up until 1/4 way into our 40min race; really cooled off the temps which was super nice.

The course tonight was a straight four corner wide open crit. The group stayed together for most of the ride and I spent my time setting at the back doing absolutely nothing. Legs and HR were feeling good and I was hoping to just hang with the lead group to the end. With around 6 laps to go I put in a good effort for 1/2 a lap trying to bridge to a lone leader, but all I was doing was towing the whole group around so I went to the middle of the pack to bide my time. With 3 to go I moved up, with 2 to go I moved up a little more, with 1 to go I was in the top 6 or so and at the line I had a decent little sprint and took 4th. I felt really comfortable and put myself in the right places at the right times.

Craig and I rolled back to the house, got cleaned up, and C & C and I grabbed a little late-night grub. We sat on their back deck watching the lightening show in the distance and had some good laughs. I have no idea why it is so long between visits with them (will have to change that immediately).

Tomorrow's race is at 1pm and the forecast is in the 80s (nice relief). Not really sure about the layout, but I am feeling pretty fresh and look forward to one more day of trying to stick with the pack. These are good races, but not anywhere near the intensity of TT (I guess I should wait until after tomorrow to finalize that statement).

Talked with the family several times today and it appears the heat stuck around and indoor activities was the theme of the day. I sure do miss my crew even on these short days away and really appreciate Deb (and the boys) giving me time/space to do my silly 'me stuff'. I recognize she in one-in-a-million and hope I return/fulfill her personal needs as well as she does mine - THANKS BABY!

One Down

Made the quick drive up to KC (Lee's Summit area specifically) and hooked up with KCHarding at his casa (which is absolutely beautiful). About 1hr into my drive I realized I forgot the Bean (new camera) and know I am like a crack addict without a fix.

First race is in the rear view mirror and it went pretty good. Craig and I rode from his house to the race (10 miles) at a nice and easy pace just to loosen up the legs (that's my version, but check out KCHarding's for his - whatever!). Pretty tough course with several turns and undulations (enough to break things up really fast). Three guys (from the same team) got off pretty early and not enough of us chipped in to bring them back so the chase group of 8 or 9 were settling for the table scraps. I was able to stick with this group to the finish, but had no punch for the final sprint as I made a bone-head mistake in too big of a gear for the last climb, burned my matches too early and brought up the rear (I think I was 11th or so - better than what I expected from the day). It was hot during the event, but not near as bad as I expected.






***Great pics provided by Kim Morris and Lyle Reynolds***

Rode back with Crusty (formally known as KCHarding and changed at his request) for another 10miles (where he dropped the hammer and I suffered like a dog). We cleaned up and hit some sushi and ice cream and finished up with some car racing videos.

Great time with C & C (always) and am looking forward to the rest of the weekend.

Here Goes Nothing

Forecasted heat index for KC this afternoon is over 105* (slightly higher tomorrow with possibility of some rain, and in the upper 80/lower 90s on Sunday)!!!! Good thing I am staying indoors... oh wait, that's right, I'm the idiot racing at 5:45pm today around an asphalt loop. I vaguely remember something about a short clip I posted on Monday with reference to 'STUPID' or something like that, but here I go again. Not expecting anything of glory this weekend, just cruising with the group and building more speed in the legs (oh yeah, and surviving) for payoff this fall. Don't get me wrong though, I'll give it a go if I find the right opportunity for a prime or a little jingle, but not expected.


Heat (w/humidity) and I have a long history together and I typically leave it alone and visa verse, but am toying with that fine line a little bit this weekend. If it is unbearable and/or unproductive I have no problem packing it in and heading back home without a second thought. For the past three or four years I haven't raced in late June, July, and August since it was all AR stuff and usually lasting anywhere from 10-18hrs, but I am curious to see how it goes only in it 45-50minutes once a day (surely it can't be that bad - cough, cough, sigh).

Jumped on the mtb this morning and spun for 1hr to loosen up the stumps. It was already warmish at 6:30AM. Did a couple tasks around the office then grabbed Jake and we pounded some breakfast at a local diner. Finishing up a condensed days work and heading to KC early this afternoon. Looking forward to spending a little time with KCHarding.


My oldest and I haven't spent much time (just the two of us) lately and I plan to fix that this summer with simple things like breakfast, a movie, or playing chess death matches (which I am on a bad streak as I have lost three games in a row this week). His summer running is going well and not a single twinge in his leg from the T&F injury.

The below was taken outside the house yesterday evening. The image doesn't really show the impact or number of light rays shooting out in an awesome display. It was like one of those Bob Ross paintings I always say never really looks that way in real life, but it does...

Can I Get A Raincheck?

That's what was asked at Ian's baseball game yesterday evening as it was cancelled after 1 1/2 inning. It hadn't started raining (yet), but lightening was dropping in the area so a good decision was made. We grabbed some pizza in SPR and then headed home.

It was a pretty relaxing evening with Ian and I catching most of the College World Series final game (I was backing Texas while Ian was rooting for 'whomever ends up winning').

Fitness: Think yesterday's rest was really good for me physically and mentally. Got an 1:30hr AM ride this morning as the temps were in the low 70's (felt almost chilly - almost). I threw in a couple extended interval efforts on the SBU crit loop and everything responded really nice. I was frustrated for the past week as I felt sluggish and slow (I know and what I meant was 'slower than usual'), but this morning felt crisp. Hoping to feel the same this weekend in KC and be able to hang with the group all three days.

Let's talk a little cycling today with several national championships coming up and the TdF not too far off. First, take a look at this as Longo won again at 50 yrs old - AWESOME! The below is her at the 1980 Championships and the second is her this year:

The Spanish and Belgium races are always a favorite with each having the main contenders not allowed in the TdF (Valverde and Boonen, respectively). Gilbert is tipped as the fav up north while Alberto might give Valverde a run for his money down south although Casse' has a stacked team and probably not so much for the Astana rider (but he should be used to that with the crap teams he's been given all year).

Speaking Astana, check this out as a cool watch showing their selection of TdF riders. ...and as for cool videos, I am saving up my nickles and dimes for George's documentary (80 min of start to current day) although I know most of it will be "... and George goes down..." or "... and George has a mechanical at the most crucial..."; oh well, I'm a big fan and looking forward to getting it.

TdF - Haven't really looked at the stages and team rosters (not all are complete as of yet), but will in the following week. I am sticking with Contador as the overall and teetering with Evans, a Schleck bro, Lance and a couple others on the podium. Sprinter is up in the air as Cav will have the most wins, but probably not the jersey in the end.

Who am I kidding, I don't even know why I offer up my forecasts and views; I should just wait for the EXPERT to chime in since according to him my credentials are "...get a Cycling.TV subscription & a blog & he's an instant expert". By now I should "receive words of advice from my years of experience..."

Evening at the Ball Game

The heat and humidity continues to blanket the Midwest and relief is not within sight anytime soon. This weekend's Tour of KC is going to be a hot one as I race at 5:45pm Friday, 7:40pm on Saturday, and (sigh) 1pm on Sunday; all forecasts in the upper 90's (add in heat index and who knows what it will be). Good thing these are crits and over in less than an hour.

Ian's baseball team got some GA tickets to the SPR Cardinals game so yesterday he and I braved the heat advisory and headed to the Hammon's Field. Before we left I made sure he wanted to go and sit in the heat and I got the 'E-ball Answer' "of course, it's a game", which sums this kid up to a T (if there is a sport playing he wants to either be in it or watching). While it was pretty warm it wasn't near as hot as I anticipated (thanks to a little cloud cover) and by night's end it was really nice (amazing what a light breeze can do). Ian and several teammates had a great time watching the game and fighting for foul balls (looked like throwing food to the trout at Bennett Springs). Ian ended up going home with Payton and spending the night so I soloed it back to Bolivar. The first picture below is of the 'twins'; these two are pretty much inseparable and both sports fanatics.

***All pics and video taken with my new Argus Bean; super light weight, compact, 5mega pixel, and watch resistant (no longer carrying one in a baggie). I am still figuring out settings on the video mode, but it's coming along. It has a built in beaner so it clips on my bike cables and is super accessible during rides -handy.***

Springfield is fortunate to have such a great ball facility as Hammon's and good baseball like the Cardinals farm team. Super cheap tickets, a comfortable spectator friendly facility, and good ball is a hard evening to pass up with your son.

While the offer for Deb to go to the ball game was made she opted for a movie night with girlfriends (it goes without says, but she is much smarter than I). She says The Proposal was one of the funniest flicks she had seen in a long time.

Jake stayed local and watch some movies at a friends house. I am seeing less and less of him in the evenings as he is enjoying the liberty/flexibility of having a car and summer vacation. His last day of summer school is today (big smile every time he reminds us), but 6am practice continues every morning until XC season starts in Aug (then he runs in the AM and PM).

A buddy who works at a local Chevy dealer called yesterday I went down to check out the 2010 Camero SS ($43k). It is incredible as they have brought back the late 60's feel of a true muscle car. I like this clip (brought to you by The Wah Report).

Fitness: 1 1/2hrs basketball yesterday at a pretty high intensity. Wednesday is full rest. Still feeling the affect of last week and hopefully my high end HR will rear its head for this weekend's races in KC. If not, then I'll count it as quality time with KCHarding (yes, I am bringing my shovel and boots) and not sweat it as cross it still a ways away (Sept 19th probably comes faster than I think). I found the following tidbit interesting (as I never knew it before), but last Friday the results of my blood pull had my hematocrit level at 43.4 (very normal according to my doc).

Heat Index over 100*

The below clip sums it all up for today's lunch ride. Between my body yet to recover from last week's donation draw and first time really in the heat this year, today I found myself in one of those Hurt Lockers referenced a couple posts ago. Dale had to drag my sorry butt home (thanks buddy!).

Father's Day

Got up early AM and tried to beat the heat of the day on a 2:15hr road ride. The legs felt pretty good from the little time off, but when my HR started to climb I was totally exhausted - weird. The docs told me I would feel some fatigue from the week's earlier activity, but at the time I didn't really pay too much attention to it (yeah, sure, whatever...); well, turns out they must know a thing or two as I felt like simply tired for most of the ride.

I got home to some muffins and two boys with cards and a gift (no more sharing a camera). I got cleaned up and we were off to my dad's church. He didn't know we were coming so it turned out a good surprise. We took them out for some lunch in Republic then parted ways as we headed home.

We spent the afternoon sacked out napping (Jake and I over 2 1/2hrs). Jake usually banks on sleeping late on Saturday mornings, but with the FS he was up at 6am so napping was a life saver to him. Ian and I attempted to play some catch outside in the early evening, but postponed it until later as it was still pretty hot (might as well get used to it this week though). In the later evening Deb and I worked in the garden and flower beds and she finished up the evening playing catch with Ian (she had no idea how much sports she would play later in life when she was a little girl).

I am fortunate to have two fathers that are so similar; both are patient, loving, forgiving, and always there near. My dad has always set the standard for loving relationships that I strive to have with my sons. He always held us accountable for our actions (didn't spared the rod, which in my case was needed often), but never let it detract from constantly supporting us with love and encouragement. In my case several times he and I fit the roles of the 'prodigal son'. It is no wonder why my dad is so similar to my heavenly father who waits patiently on me to call and provides nothing short of pure grace when I do.

Fitness: 2:15hrs of suffrage on Sunday. Monday - hopefully 1:30hrs at lunch with Dale. Tour of KC (three crits) is this weekend (starts Friday afternoon) and I am hoping to be back to par prior; once again, no visions of grandeur just being competitive.

Friday Evening & Family Scramble

Friday evening 2hr ride with Deb, my bro Jim, Wes, Marla, and Dale and Mary (his daughter on their tandem). We hit the southern roads of suburbia Bolivar over some new terrain for most. All was good with a great lightening/thunder show to the far north until we blew a front tire (tube and sidewall) on a fast descent. Deb was a little shaken, but I kept it upright long enough to get the rig slowed down. We got it 'booted' thanks to Dale's Skittles wrapper (handy and delicious) and got home just as it was turning really dark. Fun ride and great company.

Grabbed Ian from Jake (who both just walked in the door) so he could go hang out with his crew and the three of us went down to the middle school and took in Relay For Life. We filled our faces with the regular Relay chow while watching E-ball play some mini-golf and Rock Band. Headed back home around 10:30 and everyone is hitting the sack, except for Jake who stopped by just long enough to let us know who's house and how long we will be. He is enjoying his summer and his good friends.

Saturday morning started early as Ira and the Jones crew loaded up and headed off to Ritter Springs for the Family Scramble. At 7:30am it was hot and muggy and it only got worse. Ira and Jake were quickly off the front and for most of the race Ian and I were holding strong in 2nd (overall/1st 7-12yr old). We had one stretch of looking for a point, but recovered pretty fast and ended up 4th overall and 3rd in our division (1:41hrs). Jake and Ira easily won the overall by calendar days (1:17 hrs) ahead of the next. I was absolutely blown away with Ian's running ability and drive to keep a fast pace. I bet he easily ran over 2 miles at a good clip. I had hooked up our bikes for a little towing, which worked out great on the uphill sections. Everyone had a great time and we all celebrated with some Subways. Deb got some great shots of the action and Ira provided some race coverage commentary:

Got home and everyone was beat tired; Deb and I napped while the boys laid around watching tube comatose. Mid-afternoon I got some yard work done and a little later Ian and I played catch. Deb made a great meal (grilled pork steak, homemade potato salad, cucumber/onion in vinegar, and a cheese cake w/strawberry toppings - YUM YUM!). Deb and Ian played some more catch (isn't he getting close to his 10,000 hrs - Outliers reference) while I beat up on Jake at the chess board. Later in the evening Jake talked Deb and I into a little DDR; it was fun, but more embarrassing then anything. Heading to bed now.

Tomorrow I am hitting a 2hr ride in the early AM and then we'll head to my dad's church for services with lunch somewhere afterwards.

Father's Day is tomorrow, but (as I have referenced before) the boys and Deb make pretty much every day feel special for me; I am truly blessed.

Junk Miles

***Warning - The following contains sarcasm and not identified by some readers***

Had a blood draw this afternoon and my platelets are back to a safe number so this evening I am going to waste what could be used as valuable 'training' time and ride the tandem with Deb and friends for a couple hours - THE HORROR!!!!!

I really need to shake myself and stop this frivolous JUNK riding if I want to get to the top podium of (filling in whatever event is more important than having fun).

And if tandem riding with my girl and friends isn't bad enough... I have the audacity to waste another 2hrs tomorrow morning with Ian (Jake is racing with Uncle Ira) at the Family Scramble in the morning. Hopefully Ian will recognize my error in spending quality time with him and bow out of the event so that I can do mind-numbing repeats watching a digital output... I can only hope!!!!

***End of sarcasm***

On a serious note: My platelet numbers are good, I am looking forward to a couple hour ride with Deb and friends, and Ian is stoked about tomorrow morning doing our first race together (Jake is hoping Uncle Ira can keep up - typed with huge smile). I would say this is going to be a great father's day weekend, but Deb and the boys make everyday a treasure (I love my crew!).

STL Trip

Deb and I headed out Tuesday afternoon for STL. The purpose of the trip was round #2 of marrow/t cell donation for an unidentified recipient (on Wednesday) and I added on a stop at the Tuesday Night'er in STL as a bonus.

We pulled up to Carondelet Park in plenty of time to get registered and catch the 'A' race (P/1/2/3) at 6pm. I had no idea what to expect of this event and was simply looking for some time in the saddle at a good pace in a pack, but I knew it was going to be fun when I saw over 60 riders in the A race. The course was .7 miles with flowing corners and a little descent and ascent; looked pretty simple (which it was). I got warmed up on a side loop and when I showed up to the start line for a 30 minute + 3 there were around 70 riders (which I was later told was an average field size - nice). I got quickly to the front portion of the race and got off the front once with a couple guys that went no where fast. Mid-race they have a $6 prime (only one of the event) and since I was feeling pretty good I thought I would give it a try... along with six others (sigh), but I played things right and gave a good effort at the end and nipped a Mesa rider for the BIG CASH PAYOUT. The six of us had a pretty good gap and after trying to get something simulating a break for a lap the field pulled us in. I drifted toward the rear for the rest of the race until two laps to go and moved up into the front 1/3. I gave it a go with the field at the finish and bagged 5th (25.4mph average). I felt really good throughout the event and actually sprinted pretty good (for me) when it mattered. The C race had 40 or so in it, which made the overall evening a pretty big turnout. It was so much fun that I am now looking for any reason to be in STL on Tuesday nights for the rest of the summer.

Cruised over to the hotel, got cleaned up, and Deb and I enjoyed a nice meal on the outdoor deck at Landry's (Union Station).

The next morning came early as check in was 7:30am at the STLU unit. 5 1/2 hrs on the machine seemed like an eternity since I couldn't move (except for my left arm). Deb and I watch Slumdog Millionaire (liked it tons) and Grumpy Old Men (always a favorite) to kill the time. An interesting fact: my body holds roughly 5,500 ml of blood and yesterday they processed 23,000 ml through the machine (that my total volume going through 4 times - pretty cool). My platelet count was extremely low so I was advised not to do any activity for several days that might make me fall or knock my noggin (you know, that is usually on my list of things NOT TO DO anyway). I was feeling a little fatigued afterwards, but got to rest some in the hotel before heading out to meet Deb's sister and husband at Cunetto's (great Italian on The Hill). The food was super and the company awesome. I really enjoy Mandee and Chris and always look forward to time with them (lots of laughs). On a side note: Jake thinks Chris is about as cool of uncle as there is (reminds him of Jeff from Rules of Engagement). Afterwards, to top off the STL experience, we grabbed a little Ted Drew's. Got back to the room and crashed.

Felt way better (normal) this morning after sleeping in late and pounding some breakfast bagels sandwiches and coffee. Did a little light shopping (Big Shark and REI) then headed toward Bolivar.

On our drive out on 44Hwy we saw overpass after overpass lined with tons of people and emergency and utility vehicles all with American Flags. At the 100 hwy exit we pulled off and joined in the crowds. We had no idea for whom or what this was intended, but it was obvious some kind of recognition of patriotism was in order. We waited for a handful of minutes before a Hurst and motorcade went under followed by over 100 motorcycles with American and POW flags flying. Turns out a solider killed in Iraq arrived at Lambert airport and has heading toward his final resting place in Sullivan. At our overpass (like many others we saw) there were several VFW's in uniform (American heroes - not the type described in athletics, but true men of courage) and what appeared to be a new private in uniform standing with his family. Several of the VWF's and civilian folks, to include myself, thanked him for his service and protecting our families; quite a powerful scene and the young solider stood tall with shoulders back ready to fulfill his responsibilities.

The rest of the ride home was pretty straight forward. Deb finished 'Blink', which was a great read. There were several bits of information that still has me thinking about things.

We picked up Ian and everyone got tons of hugs. Jake was happy to see us (jury still out if it was our return or the fact he was done sitting E-ball - either way I'll take it) and suprisingly spent the evening at home with us. Deb whipped up a good dinner then Ian and I went to his ball practice (back to the routine). I am feeling pretty good, but still a little more fatigued than regular. Deb and I worked in the garden and around the shrub/flower beds and now getting ready to turn in for the evening.

Fitness: Tuesday - 35minute crit The rest of this week is off due to low platelet count.

Monday Night Baseball and Travel

Ian had a game in SPR yesterday evening and the boys are back on their winning ways (let's hope). 12-2 (stop keeping score is over 10 runs) was the final and everyone looked sharp (to include a triple play). The boys were amped up and had fun (amazing how winning changes one's demeanor). Grabbed some chow with my dad and mom afterwards.

Got up this AM and walked outside checking the weather as I thought about getting an hour of 'junk' in on the mtb, but about 2 minutes later the tornado sirens started. A quick check of the radar/weather maps and the next 20 minutes were spent in a hallway closet. Tons and tons of rain (a little hail) with high winds will keep me inside this morning. Will try to get out at lunch if this thing passes.

Deb and I are heading out to STL this afternoon (returning Thursday) for another session with the vampires. Jake is hanging out at the house solo and Ian is spending a couple days with my bro (you know some ball catch is going to happen). I am planning to race the STL Tuesday Night'er crit if it is not raining buckets. Will be good to get some zip in the legs mid-week like the old SA Tuesday World Champs (that's me flashing through the middle at 2:14).

This clip is pretty funny if you are a cycling nerd like me.

Fitness: Monday - 1 1/2 basketball Tuesday - who knows

Camping (Sort of) Weekend

First and foremost, it is hard to call what we do these days camping (when sleeping inside a 28' camp trailer with full utilities...), but for now that's what we'll call it. This weekend was our Sunday School's group 'camp' trip and this round we headed to Stockton Lake. Jake took an ACT on Saturday morning so Deb and he stayed home Friday evening and met us mid-afternoon at Stockton Lake.

***WARNING - if you have a heart condition don't attempt to look directly into the picture of the sausage, eggs, or gravy as it may cause severe blockage resulting in medical bills for which this blogger is not responsible***

Friday afternoon f0recast was for continuing rains, clear Saturday, and more rain Sunday. I was hesitant to go as the last thing I want to do is haul the pop-up over, set it up, get rained on, dry out, then get rained on again before packing it up to go home to pop it up again to dry it out. I was still on the fence when my bro said we could dive in with his family as their rig sleeps 9 (not a typo, NINE) comfortably. Decision made and in I jumped with him after work. Ian rode over with a buddy so I met him there. It took all of 10min to set up and the rest was some fun and relaxation.

Friday evening saw my bro and Ian and a couple other youths playing a lot of catch and Ian and his friends exploring the trails and water front. Later on it was Smores around the fire and just sitting back and yucking it up with friends. I think the first night there were around 10-12 families.

Saturday morning was the infamous (Three Amigos reference of being sooo famous, it is in-famous) breakfast. Who knows how many eggs were scrambled, the pounds of bacon and sausage cooked, and liters of Greg's sausage gravy was actually cooked, but one thing for sure it was AWESOME. The amount of pure fat intake in that one meal is mind-boggling. After clean-up and a little down time the crew headed down to the water. Some took part in the 'smallest fish' competition and a few of us hit the kayaks (thanks TJ and RE for having those on hand). Tom and I took our boys out in the 2-person rigs (while GE went solo). The boys had a great time diving/cannonballing from the crafts. Below are some clips from our water excursion (notice the Bee Gee's voice in the last one).





After the water/beach time (around 3hrs) a group of us headed into Stockton for burgers at the Squeeze-In (ranked as 1 of the top 100 burger joints in the US). It is a small (I emphasize small) place with odd (won't ruin the actual displays) stuff to look at and read and the fries and burgers are worth the drive over to Stockton. There were around 15 of us and all had a good time. We returned and Deb and Jake showed up. Jake headed out on the boats with the other youths and a handful of us played a little 7up/7down (which is always fun) and then played some more catch with Ian.

During a lull in the early evening Ron and I snuck away for some great paddling on the lake. The winds had died and with little traffic the water was super smooth. We paddled for 1 1/2 hrs and had some good conversations and laughs. Got back just in time for the grilling to start and the downing of brats (white, not red) and the follow-up of Smores. We (more families than the night before showed up) all sat around the fire and chatted until one by one we headed off to bed.

Around 5am a big storm moved in and soaked everything (except for us in my bro's castle on wheels). We (Deb, Tom, Sarah, and Ron) had planned to paddle at 6am, but the constant threat of more weather kept us off the lake. Several of the families headed out early as did we.

Got home mid-morning and felt absolutely exhausted (as did everyone). I jumped on the couch for a little snooze (Deb took a huge snooze - lucky!) while Jake and Ian played some games and generally did nothing. Got off my butt and headed outside to work on the glass table ruins and found Deb had made a huge dent in the task the day before (nice). Weeded the garden, mowed the lawn, and did some general maintenance around the casa. Worked on Deb's car with some scratch removal stuff and am pleased with its results. Played a round of basketball and baseball with Ian. Jake disappeared with Scuba for most of the afternoon until they returned for a little video game action.

Deb and I called around to see who was up for an evening tandem ride and hooked Ron Evans and my bro. We rolled the northwest roads outside of Bolivar for 1:40hrs. It is always great spending time with Deb and spinning (two favorite things wrapped in one!). Jake and Ian just got home from visiting some friends and they shortly there after were off to bed. Deb and I watched 'The International' which was a disappointing flick.

The DL finished and I have a new respect for Evans as he did not go away quietly, but attacked repeatedly until the end. Valverde looked solid the whole event and from my perspective Alberto helped him out some, but not as much as they (the media) are yakking it up. It is interesting to hear Valverde own up to the potential of helping AC if Lance attacks him... I hope AC is wearing different colors next year.

Swiss Tour is underway and while it is pretty low key I have always enjoyed watching. Cav was being Cav this morning (2nd for Columbia in a row).

Fitness: Saturday - NOTHING AT ALL (SWEET) Sunday - 1:40 light spin on the tandem with Deb

Ah, Friday Mornings in Polk County

So yesterdays ride (1:55hrs) with Dale was a great workout. 30min warm up then 2 x 15min effort at 85% and then one 30min effort at 85% (we were running behind and a 15min was doubled to get home on time). Really liked the session. Motorpacing has been a miss as the afternoon rains played havoc with schedules. I think Want-to-be-B-Town-Reject offered his services as a moto this weekend on the Frisco (we don't listen to him anyway - our loss), but camping with the family this weekend.

We went to ball practice when I got home and the boys were looking pretty sharp after tons of work on basics. At the end of practice the boys took turns racing various coaches (there are six of us) around the diamond; definitely the boy's highlight of the evening.

Pretty relaxing evening after practice (putting off the glass table cleanup) that finished in pure disgust when the Lakers (boooooo) won in overtime.

Dale and I jumped on our girlfriends this AM and spun around the back (and abandoned) roads of Polk County near Stockton Lake. There are so many cool aspects of this route that most folks who live in the area will never see in their lifetime. It is common on the tons of Corp property around the lakes for us to see a slight opening off a dirt road and ride in just to see what we see; most times it is uneventful, but from time to time we are like 'what the heck' and find some new add-on to our routes. The below pics are from an abandoned bridge down on the lake; as you can see it is not exactly in the best of conditions (which is what we look for). The temp and conditions were great and 3:10hr later we returned home.



Ian and I are headed over to Stockton Lake this afternoon for a camp trip with our Sunday School group; Deb and Jake are coming over tomorrow. Hopefully the rain will hold off (except for the band that is hitting us as I type) and it won't be too muggy.

Fitness: Thursday - 1:55hrs (long intervals) Friday 3:10hr easy spin on mtb's

Anyone Seen Dorothy?

Yesterday afternoon the storms hit once again with some nutty strong winds. Deb and I were at the front (east) of the house watching the trees bow and Jake let us know there was a huge crash on the back patio (west). Our glass topped patio table was lifted from it's shell and smashed against the house. That thing was not a little table top as it seated 8; big explosion and mess! I now have a project for this afternoon (after Ian's ball practice). Forecast is for similar activity this afternoon and tomorrow.

Jake and I got some chess action on during dinner (Deb was giving me 'that' look like 'it's dinner time and not chess time') and I snuck away with a win.

Ian and I played some catch before the storm. He is pretty solid when it comes to pop flies, but is unwilling to sacrifice too much body on grounders (don't blame him really). He's got practice tonight and we are hoping for a return of the skills the boys showed earlier.

Deb read (and I listened) more Blink, which is a very interesting study of our unconsciousness and how it affects decision making. Good read.

Dale and I are heading out in a little bit for 1:45hr of 3 x 15 minutes 85% efforts. It is already steamy out there and I'll be glad to get this over. Played some good basketball at lunch and am looking to really load up the legs this afternoon and tomorrow morning.

DL was pretty good today as Valverde laid the wood to everyone (of significance). I like him as he is aggressive and not one to simply ride wheels. Evans didn't look like he believed AV would get so far ahead and AC simply couldn't do more than ride wheels to the top. Everyday is good climbing action and will be interesting how it plays out.

***Jake is taking a digital photography class this summer school and thus my lack of pic/video posts. The boys might be taking care of that issue with a little father's day surprise.***

Fitness: 1 1/2hr basketball and 1:45hr intervals

Blackout at the Casa

Will get to the title in a little bit.

Tuesday afternoon got my 1,000th (not really just feels that way) physical for next weeks pull. Turns out my WBC was low so additional blood drawn in the morning (outside of what was planned).

Got home to a great pasta meal with the family as the rains started pouring. With wetness outside we actually spent an evening indoors with nothing related to balls; amazing. I had revenge to inflict on Jake so after 3 games of chess I took home the belt 2-0-1 (1 being stalemate). We all goofed around the house until it got darkish outside then we played Ian (and Jake's) favorite indoor activity - Dark Hide-n-Seek. We have done this ever since Ian was super tiny and it is still fun for all. We turn off all the lights in the house and play multiple hide-n-seek rounds with only the light of a cell phone for the seeker. Jake is very creative, stealthy, and usually is the last found. Ian on the other hand can't stay quite or still to save his life; which was discussed that he is on his own if an Anne Frank occurrence every comes up. There are several rooms which give access to move toward the ceiling and in the semi-dark is slightly eerie when someone jumps down at you. 41 yrs old and still loves h-n-s.

The boys got to bed at a good time and I watched the Magic slide by while Deb read. The thunder and lightening made for peaceful sleeping.

This morning I found my way to CMH (again) for what is hopefully my last blood draw of another 7 tubes. Let's see that makes the final count (this round) 13 viles. Last round they drew 14 on ONE DAY (I was in no hurry to get up and walking that time).

Turns out the race I debated and debated on attending in Columbia this past weekend was the MO State Championship Race (for the MWFTCS series). Interestingly enough, the promoter/advertiser failed to include this tidbit of information on race flyers and website. The Pro/1/2 winner didn't realize it until some time after the event. If I had known then the decision would have been easy and off to Rhett's I would have been. The NORBA MO Championship Race is July 11th in STL; won't miss that one!

This weekend we are camping at Stockton with several members of our Sunday School group. We do this a couple times a year and is always fun. Ian and I will head over Friday and Jake and Deb will come over Saturday afternoon after Jake's ACT.

DL is OK to watch as today was a 42k TT. No real shockers as it was a 'traditional' course with no climbing or numerous turns. Contador is getting under Evan's skin as he keeps mentioning he is there only to train and while the latter is obviously giving a 100% go at it (Lotto needs any kind of win it can get). Tomorrow and the following days are for the climbers so it will be interesting to see who finishes where on Ventoux.

Fitness: Played 1hr of basketball at noon and will likely take the day off from cycling.

Monday

Day started off with some early time at the J O B then a trip to CMH for a couple x-rays and blood draws for my upcoming donation. Only a handful of tubes taken this time (last time it was 14), but turns out they forgot a couple and had to go back this morning.

Dale and I headed out for a 'toasty' 2hr ride at lunch. Steady brisk pace over a tough ungulating terrain. It was nasty hot and humid the entire time. We are knocking out some interval work today at lunch and hopefully it will be a little cooler. No pics or video as I didn't want to subject the purple-TT-suit'ed-B-Town-Reject-want-to-be to seeing a tri top again and having to field the comments on 'fashion'.

Picked up Ian from VBS and headed to SPR for a ball game. Jake was still working at VBS so he didn't make the trip. We were all hoping to see the return of the all-star team, but it was more of what we saw over the weekend (14-4 loss). A couple of the coaches were trying to figure what has happened since the first game and I voiced my opinion: "They are only 8yrs old, that's what going on". It's easy to forget that these guys are still so young when they play so well at times. Ian had a fun time and afterwards we chowed down at Fizolli's.

Got home and Ian and I played some catch then got him ready for bed. Jake was hanging out and sharpening his DDR skills. He is trying to get me to play, but there is no way I am getting on that pad. After Ian hit the hay I went to the garage and worked on a couple bikes a friend dropped off for a little maintenance. Deb joined me and she read 'Blink' out loud while I wrenched. Got to bed a little late as the book is very interesting.

Speaking of books, Deb and I finished Outliers (and now we are reading another by the same author). It was an interesting read, but I am finding Blink more interesting as I am a 'thin slicer'.

Jake is in his 2nd week of 6am XC (unofficial) practice and Monday was his first day of running in over 4 weeks. He did a super light and easy 3 miles and said his injured leg felt fine. This morning he was back on the bike. For this week his is alternating running/riding as to slowly work back into his mileage to avoid his Achilles flaring up again. Around 20 kids are consistently showing up and Jake says it is a lot of fun having that many (that early in the morning). Jake hasn't said anything, but others have told us coach has Jake leading the group through stretching and drills, which doesn't surprise me as he is the most experienced male (only a junior) on the XC team and has a true sense of 'team' dynamics and supporting others. Aaron D was a great role model over the past two years and I have no doubt J will step in to continue the tradition. He is going to the West Plains (Joe Bill Dixon) XC camp in mid-July and wants to have a good base prior so not to explode on the last day's run of 18miles (and receive the coveted shirt).


Just got back from a tough interval (crit style) workout with Ira and Dale. Warm up cruise for 30 min then 5 x 5min (4min recovery) at 177-181 hr (same numbers as my efforts at Tulsa Tough) ending with a steady cruise back to office for 1:30hrs. I am spent from yesterday and today's efforts. Nice easy spin with Dale tomorrow AM for a couple hours. Think I have some motopacing lined up for Thursday.

Fitness: Monday - 2:05hr ride at steady pace Tuesday - 1:30 intervals

Weekend Scoop

Got up early Saturday morning and tended to the garden, flower beds, and shrubs. Soon there after we (all but Jake, who was still sleeping) loaded up and headed to SPR for Ian's ball games. Remember a handful of posts back when I went on about Ian's team being a bunch of studs, well that all changed immediately as they played all three of their games like it was their first one (of their lives!). Very frustrating day for the boys to go 0-3 and play so badly. Ian had his share of rough goings, but hit solid every time up; too bad 6 of the 8 were right at a player and resulted in an out. So far for the season his hitting average is .454. He did have some great plays at 3rd and still is showing a canon of an arm.





After the games it was on to McCrapples where Ian pounded his first Big Mac (see pic for proof).



Found out on the drive home that my last hope for a travel partner to Columbia bailed and if I wanted to race mtb's it was going to be another solo 6+hr drive (2nd weekend in a row). I was still up in the air and would decide Sunday morning (early).

Got home mid-afternoon and Deb and I watched Defiance; pretty good rental, but not great. Jake had some friends over so he disappeared once again. We goofed around the casa and then I headed to play some poker with the regulars. Pretty good time eating, joking, and being 'guys' with friends. I ended up 2nd (losing to my bro as usual) and got home a little after 11pm, which pretty much helped me decide not to go solo to Rhett's run the following day. Even though I was pretty bummed, I realize it is just a hobby and by Monday morning will be only an afterthought...

Jake spent the night with Scuba so not much time with that one this weekend.

Sunday morning was beautiful outside as I was up early again (I like to at least sleep til 8am on one weekend day) and hit the garden, flower beds, and shrubs again. Found a rabbit munching on my strawberries and he was gone when I returned with the pellet gun (picture Elmer Fudd in Teva's and shorts and that was me). I then did a little bike maintenance for a local guy and before I knew it Deb was telling me I was running behind for church. Quick shower and change I was in the car waiting for the crew.

After church Jake and Scuba joined us for a little Mexican eats and then they fired up DDR at the house and worked up quite the sweat. Always funny watching them play that. Ian and I headed outside for some catch. Afterwards we headed back in and Deb and I caught a short nap (while Ian watched the Cardinals play).

Met Dale around 4pm and we hit the Frisco on mtbs for a couple hours. Good pace and just a generally good ride. I was not really in the mood to stoke it up as I was still sulking about not racing, but it is always a good time just rolling with Dale. We got a little north of Walnut Grove when we decided to turn back toward Bolivar as a downed tree help us choose that precise time (see pic). Going south we had a good headwind so it was time to reap a little reward and we cruised pretty good. Of all the times I have ridden the northern Frisco I often noticed a hidden double track leading of the trail into a dense wooded area. Today Dale and I took that off-shoot and found a 1 1/2 or so single track (with two creek crossings) trail (see pic) in the middle of nowhere. Pretty cool deal, but it was on private property so we'll stay clear of it from now on.







Got in a little over 2hrs and it was a great release for my frustration of not racing. Showered and changed up and Jake and I booked it over to the VBS (vacation bible school) kickoff where tons of kids activities and food was spread around. I grabbed a couple 'dogs and Jake disappeared with his friends (never to be seen again until they were all leaving). Caught up with Ian and Deb and we all grabbed some lawn chairs and hung out under a great shade tree chatting and laughing. These folks in the picture are quality people with a tremendous love for life and laughter. It is obvious I wouldn't normally fit in this crew, but they take me for what I am (but more likely they enjoy Deb's company and tolerate me - HA) and I wouldn't trade them for anything.

After VBS Deb, Ian, and I made our way to R&S W's house to pound some sweets and watch game 2 of the NBA Finals. I know and fully understand how dominate Kobe is, but have I said lately that... I Freaking Hate The Lakers (and every call that goes their way!)!!!!!

It's Sunday night and I am looking for the bed. It was another great weekend at the Jones Ranch; hope yours was too.

Dauphine L is going on this week and while it's not a favorite I still enjoy watching the TdF contenders feeling each other out. Interesting to see Alberto 2nd to Evans on the opening TT; more interesting will be if Contador goes full out on the later stages or if he doesn't show all his cards. Glad to see Kloden riding well in Luxemburg, but you had to know one of the Schlecks was taking home the overall (I like both of them - aggressive and fearless).

Fitness: Great rest day Saturday and a 2hr+ mtb spin Sunday. All in all a tame week as I anticipated racing today and so I take it as a recover/rest week and will hit the next two pretty hard to prep for Tour of KC in later June.