Early Week Ramblings

Monday Deb and I grabbed a nice 45min spin (not on the tandem) around Bolivar at lunch. She got in a hard workout and I got to spin my legs out from Sunday's work. I had another intramural football game (chalk up another win) and Ian was my biggest fan on the sideline. Deb headed out with some girlfriends for a 'chick' flick (thank you girlfriends, you have almost removed me from anything estrogen). The boys and I had a quiet night of TV (E-ball of course with Dallas playing on MNF). Jake had a long run so he was pretty sacked for the evening.

Early 40min AM run this morning was quite chilly. Hit the SBU Stadium for bleacher runs to keep warm. Dale, Ira and I hit the Polk County back roads at lunch for a good mix of long efforts and big gear work (substitute for the gym this week). The weather was just about ideal for fall riding. Going to catch the last half of Jake's workout today (6 x 1 mile repeats). Ian and I have basketball practice tonight, to which is he looking forward.

Speaking of XC, Coach Bandy continues to increase the loaded workouts on them as the season is mid-way and taper is still a couple weeks away. He has them going to a small meet (avoiding a large one to keep from crushing them mentally) this weekend just to get in a race as their legs have been dragging for a while now. Looking at the schools attending this could be the weekend Jake pops his first win; we'll have to see though.

I am becoming more and more a fan of Hulu. No longer do I need to DVR or stay up for Conan's openers.

Although I haven't mentioned The Mole in a while he is still doing his thing (making little runs and no mounds) and I continue to step down his runs and leave the bleach on the shelf. I do keep a keen eye and will take down the SOM if given the chance; believe me, I will (braaaaaaahhhhhh).

Solid Racing Weekend for the Jones Boys

THE HILL... and it doesn't end where the folks in the picture on top are standing, oh no, it keeps climbing on around the corner!!!!

You know me I always go chronological...

Friday after work was pretty low key and pretty much a 'nothing evening'.

Jake's XC meet was at Hermitage (actually Pomme de Tarre Lake Dam Corps park) and he was to run at 10am. I met Nate and Arron Weaver (blog virgin - young guy who leads K-Life in the Bolivar area) couple guys early and we rode out the meet (Nate cut off early and headed back to Bolivar). It was pretty soggy outside and I was hoping to dodge the rain on the 30 mile trip north. We made it a little over 18 miles before we got wet and by the end we were soaked. Deb and Marla (and E-ball) drove up and a quick change of cloths and some time under a heater had us ready for the meet (he and I were freezing). It felt good to get out and loosen up the legs before Sunday's race.

The Hermitage course is a demanding hilly one (especially adding in the mud and soggy conditions) with what has to be the steepest (combined with how long it is) hill climb I have seen in a race (to include Jeff City's state race). Jake has traditionally struggled with hills and I think he broke through a barrier at this race as he powered up (and elbowed a couple kids to get through) like I had not ever seen him before. He race a solid race and finished 3rd overall. He (and us) were beaming. The rest of his varsity team ran their butts off and finished 2nd overall as a team. The girls looked strong as always and finished 1st team overall. Ian had a good post-race snack he snagged from the team.

Saturday afternoon Ian's b-ball team had a practice and later that evening he had a friend over for the night. Deb and I kicked back and watched 'Duplicity' (OK, but not strongly recommended) as Jake went out with some friends.

Sunday morning had me and Scotty D loading up the gear and bikes en route to the De Stadt series opener at KC. Randy W. jumped in with us to check out his first 'cross race. KC is such an easy 2hr drive up and much better than Hermann (in the middle of nowhere). We got up there and found Ira and family; he had just finished up his Cat 4 race and finished 15 (or so) after getting a horrible start. I got on the course for a couple loops before Scott's race at 1pm was the Open (Cat 1/2) and thought to myself 'this could be a good day' as it was a great mix of things to keep the overall speed down a little and the longer sandpit run was in my favor. The Blue felt super solid and the Hutchinson (tubeless set up thanks to Stan's new kits) Piranha's seemed to hook up pretty nicely. Scott's race was again a super loaded field (Tilford/Smith/Butthead...) and by race end he was pretty cooked (still way faster than the rest of us). The temp continued to climb as the day progressed (not good). I lined up front row (thanks to early registration) for the 3s which had a decent sized field. I got my usual OK start and quickly got in a grove and picking off riders. The loop was 1.99 miles long (kind of longer for cross) and our race was 45 minutes long. By midway through the second lap I had moved into 2nd place and was bearing down on 1st (just about 30-40 ft ahead). That is when my lack of a good chain guard bit me in the butt. I am picking one up this week and hoped it wouldn't be an issue this week (but it was). Chain dropped so I jumped off got it back on and was off again. I chased for a couple laps and worked back into 3rd (1st and 2nd pretty far up by now) and then it happened again - chain sucked between the big ring and my 42 and it took a good little while to get it pulled out and back to racing. I had chased so hard after the first incident that I didn't have much left in the tank for another chase (oh did I mention it was the last lap!!!!). I was able to pass two guys and finish 7th. I really felt good and the new bike was amazing; solid, responsive, and super fast. I changed my setup to a more aggressive position than the Orbea and I was night and day how it handled. While it was frustrating not to be able to fight for the win it felt really good to know I rebounded from last week with a super solid ride. Tomorrow morning I order the Pauls!

After a quick stop at the Osceola Cheese shop (affectionately known now as the N1H1 breeding grounds - this funny brought to you by Scotty D) I got home in time to head over with the crew to some friend's house for the opening night of the Amazing Race.

Next weekend has a Saturday XC meet at Halfway (nice local event) and a 'cross race in KC (also one on Sunday). I will probably skip the Saturday 'cross and hit the Sunday one.

Here's a quick link to a little explanation of the My Wife Inc. team I race with. This clip is from the USGP in Wisconsin where the MWI boys had a blast racing and living the 'cross lifestyle.

Who Turned on the AC

Hit a 2:15hr AM ride this morning, wore a light long-sleever and light gloves, and stayed pretty chilly until the sun popped. Been a couple weeks since I hit the 'Friday Usual' and I was not going to miss it this week especially since I met HER (see pic to the right). Wow; amazing how a new girlfriend can make the old ones seem so insignificant. Although I rode a steady effort it was absolutely relaxing and refreshing. Lots of fog in the lower valleys made for some good scenery.

Not much on tap for this afternoon/evening. Jake runs at the Hermitage Invitational at Pomme de Tarre Dam Park, which is supposed to be super hilly and tough (that's why coach chose it). He run at 10am so I think Dale and I might ride up (catch a ride back) to get the legs loosened up for Diamond Blackfan 'cross race in KC on Sunday. Jake's coach told him not to expect a great time on his race as he was LOADED up on workouts this week (and for the next couple leading up to districts).

Deb's enjoying her new buddy (Marla) and they are riding/walking quite a bit and sharing 'girly' stuff. She has needed this for some time and I can't help but smile knowing they are pals. She has been stuck in a testosterone purgatory for long enough.

It has been a quick couple days...

Monday was a pretty routine day and I grabbed 1:45hrs (mixed in some bigger gear work) on the trainer in the evening as the rain was pouring. Caught up on some of our favorite CBS shows with new season (finally).

I coach Ian's traveling basketball team and we had our first practice Tuesday evening and it went really well. I like the crew we have and including a competitive 4th grade team with ours has our boys raising the level of play. Ian has a great time and for the past couple days has a basketball in his hands nonstop working on drills (mom's not so thrilled as it's mostly in the living room). That's about it for Tuesday... OH WAIT, the BLUE arrived around noon. I had planned to get some training in, but with a new toy it simply wasn't going to happen (let's just call it an unplanned rest day). Spent the evening swapping some stuff here and there and mostly just looking at it.

Wednesday AM got out on the rig for 45min and stopped about every 5min to tweak this or that (and mostly just look). Everything is pretty much dialed and will only need to pick up a chain ring guard (outer) and crop the steerer tube and I'm done. Needed to hit some interval work so after the 9-5 I took the Blue out for it's first real test. A wet/soggy SBU XC course (with new turn sections) for 5 x 5min and 1 x 10min (mostly in a light rain). Tough workout and I am feeling it today. I'm not a bike expert and the little details of this and that goes mostly unnoticed by me, but the instant feedback on a pedal stroke is incredible on the Blue. Super solid and responsive and simply looks incredible (I should have a big fuzzy hat, leopard print overcoat, and zipper side boots cause I feel like a PIMP on this thing).

Got home, threw some grub down the gullet, and finished getting the Orbea prepped for it's next owner. Randy came by (Ira showed up later) and by night's end he was off with a 'new to him' bike. It worked out great for everyone with the Orbea as it served as an interim bike perfectly.

I like Conan O'brien's Tonight Show so much better than Leno's. He is freaking hilarious.

Just got back from a 1:30hr roll with my bro. Loosened up the legs after yesterday's efforts and enjoyed the company and awesome weather.

SANTA CAME, SANTA CAME!!!!

The Blue is in my possession and HOLY CRAP it is SEXY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Will take a couple days to dial it so still cruising the Orbea (for now).

Did I mention it is SEXY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One a side note: I used to post my Twitter tweets on this site, but for some unknown reasons it was posting someone else's stuff (hopefully it was obvious it wasn't mine). Hope mom didn't see it...

Weekend Update

Let's see, where to start...

Friday at lunch Dale and I took my bro out for 1:30 easy spin to loosen the legs up. Great weather made for a good ride. Friday afternoon we shut down the shop early, went downtown and watched the BHS Homecoming parade where Jake (and XC team) ran as a team in it. Rest of the afternoon was pretty laid back. Deb's folks dropped in (staying a couple days) and later that evening it was off to Friday Night Lights (BHS football game). Ian and I stayed for the whole thing while Deb left after the 1st qtr to get back to her folks. Ian got ahold of some face paint and was 'blue'd and gold'd up nicely and was asking if next time he could do his whole body... uh, no (not at 8yrs old)! Some of the guys I sit with at games do a little wagering on halftime scores (I got a free soda) but BHS's kicker missed a 'give-me' point after with 2 seconds left to cost me the 'nacho clause' (if you hit exactly double your original pick you get a drink AND a nacho!!!!!). I was left feeling like the Buffalo Bills (stupid Norwood). Got home and everyone crashed for the night.

Friday's local Bolivar fish wrap had the below which was pretty cool for all of us to see:

Saturday found me up at 5:20am chit chatting with Jake before he left for his XC meet in Joplin (Stampede). He's so busy that I got to get time with him when I can (more to come on that issue). He headed off and I grabbed a little more sleep before helping Deb and crew (she, Ian, her folks, and Marla) get on the road to Joplin. With great debate I skipped this meet as I was heading to Hermann later in the day to race 'cross. I don't miss very many of the boys' events and had a bitter-sweet feeling on it as it's always great to watch him run, but I have been itching for 'cross to start (and the suffering to begin).

Loaded up the Durango with 4 bikes, at least 9 sets of wheels, Scotty D, Dale, and Ira a little before noon and headed northeast. Got word on the road that Jake ran a solid race and was pleased with his effort/time. Good conversation up (3 1/2hr drive). FYI... Hermann is a cool little town, but in the middle of nowhere!

Crusty sent word on the way that life jumped in way and he wouldn't be making the Hermann trip; that happens from time to time.

Got to the course with plenty of time before Dale's beginner race; scoped out the goods. Flat layout with fast grass and one long asphalt section with only two dismounts (short stairs and one sand pit with barriers on each end) and already thinking I could be in trouble as I was hoping for more 'slow down' sections as I knew my 'top end' speed would not hold up to the guys just coming off racing crits. Weather was nice, not warm and not cool, and the rain held off.

Dale got things going in the beginner race and nabbed a solid 3rd. Ira and Dale jumped in the 4 race and did really well. Ira was in the top 5 for most and finished 10th and Dale in mid-pack. After their race Scott and I jumped on for some hot laps and everything felt pretty decent. Moment of truth as I lined up on the front row of the 3 race, looked around, and quickly figured out I was probably the only one over 30 (and yes, I am 41) years of age (funny as one guy actually used the term 'sir' with me). No big deal as it is becoming more and more the norm. Got to the stair run up in a decent position (around 6th or so) and exited about 10 spots behind where I entered as the guy in front of me had some issues and I (along with others) were locked in behind. Felt pretty good moving through the twisty stuff and hit the pavement section with a group of six or seven of us and BOOM!!! The group just took off and I had no answer; that seemed to be the theme for the rest of the evening. Rode a solid course except was losing time on that darn open section every time (something to work on this week and others to come). Finished 16th and never felt maxed out from a HR perspective simply didn't have a 'punch' when needed.

Not to take away from my lack of performance, but our field had some solid competitors to include 2008's Cat 3 State Champ (and a handful of Cat 1 roadies who don't 'cross much). Who knows how the Champ did in other races last year (maybe not enough points to move up), but you would think he would have moved up; not a big deal just interesting.

Scott racing in the LOADED Open race and looked really solid. For as much crap as I give him he honestly is a stud 'crosser and I do listen to his takes on equipment, tires, and racing. Oh, by the way he is addicted to his Storm/Twitter; not in a little way but more like a 'I'll sell myself for more bandwidth' sort of way.

Got home around 12:30am and Jake was waiting up. He and I grabbed some 4th Meal at the Bell and ended up playing stupid CofD4 until way tooooooo late. Got to get time with him when I can. I love this kid (not only in a father/son way) as he is fun just to hang out with.

Sunday morning came entirely too early (was cursing CofD) and we headed off to church for an early Pancake Breakfast and following services. We let Jake sleep in as he needs his 'recharge' day once a week. After church we met up with Deb's folks and Jake in SPR for a late lunch and a little shopping (Deb and Jake walked away with new cell phones). Headed back to Bolivar and had a pretty leisure evening (a little bike maintenance, playing ball with Ian, a little TV, Jake crashing for a long nap). Topped of the night with Jim (Deb's dad) and I beating on Deb and her mom in Spades (at least I won something this weekend).

Jumped up early this AM for a 40min run (with 10min bleacher run ups).

As I reflect back on Saturday's race I am having a new kind of take on the effort/results than before. In the past I would have been greatly disappointed in my placing (and it would have bothered me for some time), but you know what, not really this time. I feel I could (and hopefully will) do better, but I was so much enjoying the 'racing moment' and the event atmosphere that I am not too bummed. Maybe it's the understanding that I am a mid pack kind of guy now, but it's not really bothering me right now. I simply love being back in 'cross season and am looking forward to my weekly journeys to KC and STL for the next couple of months. Next weekend KC.

***No pics or videos taken this weekend by me (or our crew), but will post some when the race promoter puts them up***

Big Props to Shelly Harris - you are now in Rock Star status in my book!

Waving the Flag

So I took the bleach attack to The Mole and it worked to keep him out of his 'usual' runs and this morning I woke to his wrath - RUNS ALL OVER THE PLACE! OK, OK I get the point; I'll back off the bleach and you'll keep the runs to a minimum, geezzzz... I am fortunate that he only make low runs and none of the dirt mounds I have seen in so many other yards. I should have listened to Randy a couple months ago and focused on HARMONY (sigh).

Yesterday after work was pretty low key. Deb hit the bike with Marla for 1:30hrs while Ian and I threw some pork steaks on the grill and chowed down (Deb got her share upon her return). Jake made a guest appearance at the dinner table (running late after a 13mile PM run; add on his 4mile AM run and he had a solid day) on his hurried way to Focus (youth bible study). Deb and I have been winding down each day with Leno's new Prime Time show and I am liking it; not loving it, but liking it. Gives a good alternative to the 9pm slot.

This AM had Ira and I working CX practice at low effort level; working tons of wet grassy corners/turns with a handful of dismounts/remounts. Good to keep it light after yesterday's work.

Hopefully Blue will ship from Georgia today (that's what Blue is saying), but will believe once a tracking number is obtained. Speaking of Blue, our Wisconsin bro had a special paint scheme put on his new rig and I think it turned out BEASTLY! Take a peak:

Old Man Football & Bolivar Invitational

Monday was a pretty routine day until mid-way through I get a call that I am back on the intramural football team (SBU Faculty/Alumni squad) at SBU and our first game was at 5:30. It was a rest day (fitness wise) and this would not really impact it so I was back in. A little background: I have played with Dwain Banner and Coach Guiot (all of us in our 40's) along with a handful of graduate assistants for the past three years and sadly we have won the championship each year (beating all the college age teams). So we line up again and walk away with a 30 - 14 win. In the process I grabbed a TD (and stinking had to run 30 yards after the catch), a handful of catches, bloodied up my knee, split my upper lip, and gashed my ankle... what the heck am I doing out here?!?!?! Oh well, it's all worth the look on the youngsters faces when the 'old guys' beat on them like Chris Brown on Rihanna/Ike Turner on Tina/Me on Crusty... (you get the picture).

Tuesday was a busy one as I gave Coach Bandy a hand with setting up the SBU XC course for the Bolivar Invitational (our home meet). In addition a handful of us pitched in to get the event t-shirt sales tent going (ended up selling all but 1 of the 100 shirts). 14 schools attended and Jake ran a solid race as it was the most aggressive I had seen him in three years. He held 3rd for 3/4 of the race until he was overtaken by a small group and he got 7th. The SBU course is a tough one as runners hit a long grinder 3 times and the rest has little place to get a rhythm with constant undulations. He was hoping to hold on a little longer, but mentally he took the race to most of them instead of running after others (hope this continues). The event in whole was a success and we are looking to extend it next year and combine efforts with SBU Cross Country (a top 20 DII XC program) to put on a college/high school event. ***Way too busy selling t-shirts and yelling for Jake/Bolivar to take any video or pics. Ever since the Bean went kaput I have slacked on the media***

We finished clean up at the meet just in time to get to a Bolivar Jr. High football game to watch my niece cheer (8th grade cheerleader). Glad we went as got to witness an 8th grader score a TD off an interception and the entertainment started - for the next 10 min he was working the crowd with his dances/peace and props/jumping bumps/high fiving the cheerleaders (it was hilarious).

The boys were having a good morning (late start school day) as Ian was all about telling me how proud he was of his bubby (Jake) running hard and that Jake let him say the team prayer and help lead stretching at yesterday's meet. Jake takes good care of his little bro. Jake's was giving me crap about sleeping in while he was running at 5:15am.

Fitness: Pretty busy with the Bolivar Invitational so not much riding on Monday or Tuesday; just a quick spin Tuesday morning to make sure the 42t ring was installed and working properly. Ira and I headed out today for some 4 x 5min/1 x 10min efforts on the SBU XC course; one long grinder and a short punch had my lungs and legs barking. Tomorrow is some low effort handling drills and steady ride and the rest of the week is pretty low key as Saturday Night Live (CX VERSION) kicks it all off.

Chapeau to FdJ rider Roux for spraying down the crowd and podium girls at the Vuelta today!

Sunday Review

After church this morning Deb was on her way to a relaxing day snuggled up with a book (and no boys). Ian spent the day at a friend's home working the Rip-Stick. Turns out since E intro'ed it to a couple friends last month Wal-Mart has sold quite a few as word keep spreading throughout the intermediate school. Jake split his time between an afternoon run, church youth group, and later helping a friend with Calculus (which comes so easy to him while I have a hard enough time simply spelling it). I jumped on the 'cross bike with Dale and Ira and we disappeared for the afternoon (more on that below) so that meant Deb had over 5hrs of silence at the casa and a good book. She's worn a smile on her face the rest of this evening.

Dale came over and we hit the Frisco Trail for an hour of solid steady tempo. Ira found us on the way back and after grabbing the barriers from the house we headed to SBU for an hour of solid continuous riding a twisty course with 3 dismounts (sand volleyball pit, natural double barrier, and PVC double barrier) that averaged around 5 minutes per lap. We weren't hammering or taking it easy, just keeping a steady effort for an hour. Worked several loops in a 48t ring which worked the power/strength aspect.

Got home, grabbed a quick nap, then headed out with Jake and watched District 9 at the theater. Interestingly good movie and definitely different; both Jake and I liked it. Jake is a busy kid these days so I drop most everything on the spot when he has time to hang out. He knows I love him (and visa versa), but don't think he realizes how much I long for time with him. It makes me cling even more to Ian as he still likes to snuggle up to watch ballgames or get tucked in every night; just like with J I know those days are fleeing.

Not too disappointed the Hermann race was skipped as the workout today was solid and the solo driving was not missed. Dale and Ira are heading to Hermann next weekend so I am anticipating a good trip. Crusty has made a reference to my 'need for lube' at the HUTL event which brings a sheepish smile to my competitive self... who knows, maybe he'll donate his effort again to make sure I keep contact on the opening lap (doh!). Sounds like his training is going well so I figure it will be fun to actually race with a teammate this year.

Worked on the 'cross bike this evening and swapped it up to the 42t ring with 12-26 (dropped the 38); it's what I ran in the past and seemed to be a good fit for me. Will also run 42 (12/27) when the Blue arrives.

News this morning (Monday) that Blue is shipping my rig (to Wisc then on to me) this Thursday (at least Blue knows where it is), but am not holding my breathe as I will beleive it when it is on my door step. Crusty has his rig PIMPED:

Not Heading North and Bleach

Screw it, I can't find a travel partner (3hrs each way) so I am skipping the Bearcat. While it is the first race of the year for MO it's not really considered the season opener; that's Hermann Under The Lights (next weekend) so it's not too big of a loss. There were just a handful of things that had me less than motivated to go. New saddle didn't make it in, still no Blue, two hammer sessions this week had my legs feeling worked over; excuses I know, but there you have it. Next week I start doing my interval workouts on Wednesday (once a week) since we'll be racing most weekends there on. I'm thinking either a good 2hr mtb session at Sac today or a 'practice race' type workout at SBU this evening.

Yesterday afternoon Dale and I cruised a 2hr road ride; good ride around the north parts of Polk County. Deb got in a good one with Marla when I got back. Jake went over to a friend's house for an '8 track tape party' and E-ball and I watched the USC/OSU game at my brother's house. Deb got an entire evening of peace and tranquility; watched a couple 'chick' movies and did a bunch of nothing (good for her).

So my neighbor swore up and down that bleach will get rid of The Mole (not kill him, but run him off - bummer as I wanted a slow and painful one for him) and I figured it was some wives' tale and not worth bothering with. Turns out it is working. Pour a little in a run and he hasn't revisited the same. Here's the interesting thing, he is moving to new places, but it is continually creeping toward my edge of the property. He keeps running and I keep pouring.

Dale Scores HUGE

Dale ended up making the trip to Sedalia for the TofM TT and brought home a huge surprise for Ian (who is a big Cavendish/Hincapie fan).

WAY COOL and Ian loves it.

We just got home from a little Friday Night Lights (Bodunklivar style) and the Liberators pulled out a win with a touchdown (4 pts win) with 9 seconds left. It was awesome and tons of fun. Deb and I pounded some Hot Tamales while Ian took the Mike & Ike's route.

Played a little basketball at noon today (pretty much a rest day) and will get out a couple hour tandem ride in with Deb tomorrow.

The Shirelles' Sang About It...

'Mama Said There'd Be Days Like This...' is a good way to wrap up Jake's XC meet at Carthage. It is a tough climbers course and that, historically, has not fit to Jake's strengths. He was the sole varsity runner for his squad. He looked pretty good through the opening and was around 5:30 for his first mile then he started tightening up on the climbs. Like my ride in the morning the temp felt OK, but while running he said it was super muggy and hot). He battled tough to the end, but did not post a time (19:20) to his liking (finished 36th of 100+ runners). He shrugged it off pretty quickly (as it is something he is working on and isn't there yet) and got to the business of supporting his teammates in the various races following (I think he takes that aspect of being the team captain more intensely than racing sometimes). ***Note the new tops Jake is wearing in the video - super sharp. The new shorts should hit in a couple days - double sharp***

#1 video - start is on a 400meter climb followed by (#2 video) a quick downhill over several tee boxes that drop quickly #3 and #4 video is the same climb (different laps) up another 400meter grinder - brutal course!

Deb, Ian, and I had a fun time following all the races and goofing off between. Ian and I had a couple dance-offs in which he swears his moves are far superior to mine (boy, PLEASE!). It was a late evening as we got home around 10:45pm and in bed pretty late; Jake rolled in around midnight and luckily didn't have AM practice this morning.

Since the last two nights sleep has been shortened I crashed late this morning and skipped my mistress date (will catch it after work). Keeping it pretty light as I am 75% committed to Bearcat Cross in Hermann on Sunday.

TofM TT is today in Sedelia and looks like I am going to skip it (made the last two in Branson with Jim and Dale). It has a late start and just doesn't fit into my day/week very well. Jim can't make it and Dale is heading up late so I'll catch it online.

High School Football returns to Bolivar this evening (first home game of the year) and our crew is looking forward to it. We have a large group from our Sunday School class that gathers and it is a good time.

Race Day #2

XC #2 is this afternoon at Carthage. This is a huge meet with a super tough course (only one I have seen harder is Jeff City state course) and looks like Jake will be the sole varsity runner for the boys squad (with the others running JV). We chatted a little this morning and he was in pretty good spirits.

Yesterday evening after work Deb and I (Ian with us) went over to our church's 150 year birthday block party and worked the dunking booth (not in it, just handed out balls). E-ball ran around with his crew. Pretty fun time with super good local music (I could listen to Jeremy and Kim forever). Got home and Ian and I played several games of YCSMDCB (You Can't Stop Me Driveway Championship Basketball); he came out on top. Jake got home from his pre-race pasta feed and took is nice and easy the rest of the evening. I grabbed a Red Box (I Love You Man) and Deb kicked back on the couch while I snagged an hour of easy spinning on the trainer while watching (felt like winter time as it has been a long time since last on the going-nowhere-machine). Pretty decent flick and would recommend with a 'yup, not too bad' rating.

Early AM crit style intervals (3 x 15min with 5min rest between) at SBU with Ira. Weird weather as it initially felt cool(ish), but once the HR jumped up turned humid/soupy; not complaining, just odd.

Still no word on the Blue. I do have the pleasure (not) of seeing teammates posting pics and reviews of their new frame buildups so I got that going for me. Bearcast 'Cross in this Sunday in Hermann and I am on the fence about going; watching the expenses, but dying to get it going. I am not trying to peak for a particular race later on as I have no chance at winning my masters division at MO State or probably the 3's, so I plan just to hit each one as hard as possible and see how it goes.

The following are from Jake's East Newton race. #1 - pre-race dinner at our house #2 - warm ups #3 - start (Bolivar in blue in the middle) and #4- coming out of a tight wooded trail (you can tell he got caught in the bottle neck before the wooded section and blasted out quickly around once it opened up again).

Thursday we head to Carthage for XC #2. It is a super tough course with a stud field as a couple of the strong NW Arkansas teams come up and a handful of KC teams travel in (along with all the SWMO strong teams).

My day started of with an AM run (including a nice 10min section of SBU stadium run ups). Noon came and Ira, Dale, and I headed to the YMCA ball fields for some 'cross interval work. We like the YMCA fields as there are a couple sections of high speed loose gravel turning, your regular thick grass parts, and as many turns as needed. We warmed up (which was not hard to do as it was steamy out there) then knocked out 4 x 5min efforts and then I grabbed a final 10min at 100% (saw 186HR several times). Felt pretty good as the legs were well rested from the three days off.

After work it was play time at home: basketball, golf (Ian has added yet another weapon in his sports repertoire), then finished up with baseball. Deb had no idea she would play so much sports after her childhood (it's OK, not everyone was raised properly - just a little joke Linda). In case you don't notice below the Crocks are also the official shoe of TJCCGC (The Jones Casa Community Golf Club).

Jake seems to be a THE MAGICMAN these days ("... now you see me, now you don't...") as his practices and social life are busy. That's probably why it seems E-ball gets 70% of the references on this blog.

Watched the space station and shuttle buzz through the sky this evening (exactly 8:15pm) which was a pretty cool sight.

Labor Day Weekend

Friday afternoon Deb and I were still wondering how things would go feeding the masses at a small house. Wes and Marla brought over tons of food to go with our tons of food and at 6pm the kiddos started trickling in. By 6:15 Grace was said and over 40 kids (and coaches) started loading up plates. At 9pm the last of the crew was leaving. We did it; another year of 'the feed' in the books and everyone had plenty and no too much leftovers were had. It was funny to watch how the veterans (not first year runners) taking it easy and staying off their feet much more than the others who were running/playing in the backyard.

Jake got to bed at a solid time and didn't look too anxious/nervous about the next day. He told me coach instructed him to run a good pace for the first two miles, but not at 100% effort until the last mile. He was not expecting his time would therefore be super fast (it's early yet and coach is focused on one race for Jake - districts).

The varsity boys race in East Newton (kind of south of Carthage and west of Monett) started at 9am. The kids left at 5:15am and we (Deb, Marla, Wes, and I) left at 6:05am. Got to the race site and had time to go over the course, help set up 'the compound' (two canopies), and scope out my plan of observation. The course if pretty flat with several turns (not a runner's friend) and is a two lapper. Not a bad observation course as there is only around 800m not viewable (wooded section). 20 schools (ranging from 4A to 1A) were present and some of the top runners (Kickapoo, Glendale, Parkview - saw Rainey running around, College Heights, Lebanon...) in SWMO were there for the kickoff to the 2009 season.

I saw Jake a handful of times running by briefly, but didn't talk to him before he ran (which is how we like it). He is the team captain for the first time and it's something he takes seriously. He led the crew through warm ups and then toed the line for the gun. I could tell in the first 200m he was not pressing the start like years in the past and he was sticking with coach's plan. He came through the 1 mile looking so much easier and stronger than in the years past, but the thing I noticed the most was he was moving with an aire of confidence and not timidness. By mile 2 1/2 I could see his arms tightening up some, but he was staying focused on runners ahead. He finished with a new PR at 17:38 and 2nd in the 3A division (26th out of 158 overall). It took a while before we really got to talk as he was immediately busy after his race encouraging/congratulating the rest of his teammates and making sure the next harriers on the team were getting proper warm ups for their races. From the quick times I did chat with him I could tell he felt good about his run, but he was far away more excited with his younger teammates who ran their hearts out and posted solid times (especially since the majority were in their rookie race). Jake, this whole year, has been so focused on team.

A little before noon we left East Newton and headed back to Bolivar. We packed up some stuff for our trip to STL and waited for Jake to get home (rode back with the team). Once he got home we loaded up and turned the car northeast. Got to Mandee's in the evening, ate a great dinner she cooked, and did a bunch of nothing (nice timing for relaxation).

Saturday morning Deb and Mandee took off on a bike ride with I watch Rambo - First Blood (classic) with the boys. We loaded up a little before noon and went down to Busch Stadium (no, the Cards were out of town) for a tour. We had a little time to kill before the tour started so we grabbed some grub (not far off being accurate) at White Castle. I have to say I had never eathen there before and will not be making a trip just for it again (not good!). Ian was on cloud 9 as the 1:30hr stadium cruised ends with you in the Cards' dugout and right on the field. It was a cool thing to do and highly recommend it to any baseball nut. In the parking lot adjacent to Busch was the team pit area for the Tour of Missouri so we took a walk through as the mechanics were scrubbing and dialing in the rigs. Saw none of the riders, but plenty of the bikes. I was amazed at how many are going with a flatter/wider top tube and super beefy headtubes.

After our downtown trip we spent the rest of the day (4:30pm to 1am) at some of Mandee's family's house for their annual pig roast. 110lbs pig on the grill/smoker since 3:30am (incredible; even though we did eat a section of the brain for the heck of it). They had tons of kids games (paying cash to the top finishers) and loads of entertainment for the old folks (that's me Crusty). Ended up running a billiards table for a couple hours with my bro-in-law (and taking a Foosball champ game); fun times. It definitely helps that I was one of the few who could see and walk straight.

Slept in Sunday and after a leisure morning we made our way home in time for Jake's XC practice (no rest for the weary). I planned to get in a couple hour ride, but after lawn work, a couple championship b-ball games and a trip to the park on bikes with Ian I called it a day and skipped it.

It was a good weekend spending time with the boys (all together instead of individually) and we even got James Patterson's latest Maximum Ride read in the car (thanks to a lot of travel time). Quite disappointed in the book as he tried to tie in some personal 'global warming' soapbox issues and it didn't flow with the rest at all; I am a huge Patterson fan - usually.

So, from a fitness standpoint it was a major rest weekend after three good efforts during the week. It was bugging me a little (OK, plain itchy for me) this afternoon, but you know I don't get paid to do this, I sure don't want to miss out on fun stuff with Ian, my butt drags after late nights (two in a row and I figured what ride I did get in was probably going to be poor quality), and my fitness is pretty solid right now and a couple days off is probably good. Still waiting for the Blue and hope to get some word on it tomorrow. The others who ordered frames and already riding and seem to be digging the new rides. Looks like I will probably make HUL my opener for the year (and skip Bearcat - we'll see).

***More pics to come***

If it Ain't Raining We Ain't Training

Called Dale at 12pm and asked the stupid question "it's raining pretty heavy out there are you still on for intervals at 12:30?" pause, pause, a clear of the throat and then the reply "of course, it's 'cross isn't it!?!?!?!?" Point well made so we got in a solid ride with Ira during today's lunchtime down pour. We actually got on course right after the heaviest stuff and it lightly rained on us a couple times; made for some soft surfaces and hard pedaling. 2 x 20min efforts on the SBU cross country course (different than the others we usually ride). It is pretty wide open (perfect for long intervals) so we dropped a couple barriers in for fun (one that made a run up afterwards and another on a high speed flat). I am feeling pretty good and am looking forward to racing.


Team bikes are rolling in... just not mine yet (sigh). Crusty is probably wearing a bib right now as his was just dropped off. No word yet on a timeline for complete bikes (double sigh). It is really OK as the Orbea is a sweet ride and fits me really nice.


While in STL this weekend I plan to take the boys to the start of TofM (Tour of Missouri) and see if we can snag Ian a Cavendish or George autograph (his two favorite riders). I thought about racing one day of the Gateway, but am going to ride some early mornings and hang as much as possible with the boys (especially Jake as it feels I am seeing him less and less - triple sigh).


You probably have noticed a significant drop in pics and video ever since the Bean collapsed; just not willing to subject Deb's nice one to the ride torture.

BHuff getting some love from cyclingnews.com.

Week Catch Up

XC Fund Raiser - A group of us sold sponsorship to the upcoming Bolivar Invitational (Sept 15th) in exchange for putting their names on the back of a t-shirt we are selling. The original goal was to raise enough sponsor money to offset the cost of the shirts and then the proceeds from their sale would go back to the XC team. Cost of the tees were around $400 and last count I have we raised a little over $1,400 (WOW). This let us not only cover the tee costs, but purchase a couple canopies (with Liberator Cross Country on the banner) so we won't have to borrow from other sports. Several folks came together to make this happen and it really worked out great

Jake's first meet is this Saturday at East Newton (south of Carthage). It is a 'big-boy' kickoff meet as Kickapoo (looks like Thater will go to Arkansas), Glendale, Lebanon, the Hoover kid from Joplin... are all showing. Outside of districts (West Plains is again in ours) and state this is the fastest group Jake will run against. He is focused on a solid time and not overall placing as he understands the quality of runners. I have a speculation of what he'll run, but I am keeping it to myself. I have seen a handful of practices and he looks so much stronger and 'lighter' than years past, but you never know until the gun goes off how he will do.

Wednesday - Dale and I get in a solid 1:45 ride (averaged 151 hr). Really felt the intervals from the day before and the hill repeat run ups from Monday (must be getting old - or have already gotten there as I notice recovery is not as fast as it used to be). Deb, Ian, and I did a quick Sam's trip to SPR to stock up for the Friday Night Feed of the cross country team (we are hosting 40 kids at our casa).

Thursday - Rest day as it felt like I had a dozen things going on and riding quickly slipped to the last priority (never thought I would say that). Got in some lawn work at noon and then a quick trip to SPR to pick up a couple EZ-UP canopies for the XC team (cashing in some of the fund raiser). Deb and I went to the SBU President's dinner before SBU's first home football game. She left early (to start cooking) as my bro and I stayed as long as we could stomach (SBU kept it close at half then got pounded - again). Dale picked up a hanger for me in STL so I got in on and going (thanks a ton). Ian spent the evening at a SPR Cardinals game (and got a fowl ball) with Payton (and folks). Jake hit the bed early (9:30pm).

The Blue frames have come in and are being distributed to teammates... I did say FRAMES right? Turns out complete bikes (like I got) are running behind a couple days and I'm not sure when to expect it. It's almost like being the little Jewish boy at Christmas watching others opening gifts... just a little joke; I know mine is coming soon.

Friday - Ira, Dale and I are hitting some 20 min efforts at noon. Helping cycle 40 kids through a feed line this evening, then getting packed for the weekend as we are STL bound after Jake's meet. Can't decide whether to take the 'cross bike or the mtb (Castlewood is only 10min from Mandee's house, but it is supposed to rain). Deb is taking her bike so she and Mandee can get some riding in. Speaking of Mandee (and crew) her son Tanner, who is Ian's age (and good buddy) jacked his first over the fence homer the other day - SWEET; that was big news in our house.

Just cruised by (I bike to and from work) SBU campus and witnessed a funny event - Annual $5 Bike. SBU gathers all bicycles left on campus from the past year and sells them for $5 (each). Students get there early, put their name on a list, and you get to pick as your name is called. This year there was probably 40 bikes and of all 5 were functional. I stood on the 'sidelines' for a while as kids tried to figure out what was a 'good deal'; simple answer after the functional 5 - NONE.

Back At It

So finally off my rest week and Monday started the two-week cycle of intensity (still not 100% as that will come in October). Got in a nice 45 min run yesterday, which included 10 x 30sec and 5 x 1min hill repeats. The two best things about that workout is I do this on the SBU XC course which is 500meters from work and (by far the best) Jake's XC team did a workout on the course (they run a home meet there on Sept 15th and are hosting districts there) and during his cool down he told the old man (that's me, Crusty) to cruise with him for a lap. I didn't even bat an eye before I jumped in. That is one of those moments that will last in my memory for some time. Legs felt nice and light during the workout and let me know that rest week worked. Did a little strength training late and called it a day.

Tuesday and on the SBU course knocking out a 15 min 80% effort at 5:30am on the cross bike (yes, that's right Ira I snuck one in before you showed). Ira joined in at 6am and at the end of a 16 minute 90% effort disaster struck... derailleur into the wheels. Luckily the hanger did it's job and nothing was damaged (except for the hanger); even cosmetically. So, Ira hitched me home (he returned and finished his workout) and I will move to the mtb for efforts after work.

Here's no surprise, SPR LBS that carries Orbea does not have a single hanger in stock; oh they can ORDER it for you... seriously, not in stock, not one, probably the #1 replacement part on a 'cross/mtb and 'you'll get it in a couple days'...

Will be mtb'in my workouts until 'a couple days' pass; not really a big deal though as I'll hit my numbers on one rig or the other.

Got in a solid mini-interval session on the b-ball courts at lunch today. That is always a nice total body workout.

The MOLE continues his wicked ways and here's a funny thing from yesterday. Over the weekend I took the advice of a neighbor (desperate to try anything) and dropped moth balls in the runs (went through a big box of 'em). Yesterday I'm am walking across the lawn and what did I see, but a moth ball packet laying just above a small hole in the ground. That sucker took it and nicely let me know it was not appreciated. It was pretty funny. This guy is starting to grow on me and who knows one day we might share a lemonade and tell of war stories from past days... (don't hold your breathe though).

Got out after work and hit the FT on the mtb (only mode of cycle these days) for some solid interval efforts. Waiting for d hanger is not going to slow me down as the mtb worked just fine.

Ian and I knocked out some basketball championship play (he took me 2-1). Beautiful evening.