Monthly Update

So here it is early April and for one reason or another I have yet to turn the pedals in anger (race) and I am 100% fine with it. Not like it's a 'cross race or anything important - for all intent and purposes it's still off-season.

Been riding a bunch (both road, gravel, and mtb's) and enjoying every day of it. Dale and I are logging the miles when he's in town (work travel has him out and about often) while Ira is off in Colorado finishing up clinicals. Wish he would stop texting me pics of his rides... Weather has been crazy good this late winter/early spring and I am trying to take full advantage of it.

Jumped down to SGF the past four weekends and ridden with the Mercy-Kuat boys, a few of the OCC gang, and B Huff here and there. I love my Bolivar crew, don't get me wrong, but group rides have been a thing of the past (8 years since San Antonio) and I greatly miss them.

Couple Sunday mornings at Fellows Lake for some non-racing races that turned out just the right mix of intensity and efforts. That loop has a little bit of it all when your at the limit (in my case mostly over all during the sessions).

Most recently (this past Saturday) I met up with JB, Skip, CMac, JimmySTL, and Hogan for some Sac Trail fun for a couple of hours. Fun mix of pace as one second we would all be chatting and cruising then the next it was 'game on' for 7-8 minutes, then back to cruising. Fun morning.

This weekend I am heading to Bone Bender at Clinton State Park in Lawrence (same location as last year). Running the SS bike/class again this year and have no expectation of defending my 3hr SS win from last year - no idea how that happened). Feel pretty decent, but the goal is to have a blast riding on a pretty cool (and tough) course. Chris Locke and crew always do a great job with their events.

After that it's local SGF OMBA race at Sac Trails then who knows. Thinking about Joe Martin stage race, but I'm on the fence.

Family life is so much fun as we are huge 'outside' folks and it's been so nice every evening that we hate going back in as the sun heads down.

Over the boy's Spring break we took a quick run to STL hitting the zoo, the Arch, City Museum, little chow for Jake's b-day (he is now 19), and the big boys & Deb catching Hunger Games on opening night (they have all read it). So much fun taking the little guy to new stuff and having the big boys giving him so much attention.

Jake is cruising through his first year of college and is doing well. 18hrs this semester is keeping his pretty busy. He got a new longboard (48" Loaded) for his birthday and he kindly handed me down his 40" Bustin. He and I have hit the Bolivar streets after hours a handful of times and I am loving it. Jake's pretty sweet with his footwork and abilities; fun to watch and do. A couple Sunday's ago my day pretty much consisted of riding all morning, baseball with Ian and the little guy in the yard all afternoon, then after 11pm Jake and I hit the streets on the longboards; as a kid I would have never thought of doing this at age of 44.

Ian is playing with a new basketball team at The Courts and I'm coaching it. It's a composite team (3 from Bolivar, 2 from Stockton, and 2 from Ozark) with quality players so it's mostly a 'play only' team with no practicing; 2-0 so far and it's going to be fun. Ian's skipping baseball this year as he wanted to focus a little more on the basketball.

The little guy is doing so good and every week it's apparent he is feeling more and more secure in our family. We can tell he is still trying to figure out exactly where he belongs, but it's getting better. Speaking of which it's still in limbo as our next court date isn't until mid-May and who knows when they will start moving toward adoption. Even though we are frustrated with the system, we fully believe it's doing a fair and decent job (considering there are over 21K kids in the Missouri system alone). D is playing soccer and absolutely loves it. Hard to believe he's been with us 10 months (as of Saturday)...

Deb is Deb and always awesome. Love watching her playing and taking care of our boys and spending each day with her. She and I have snuck out on the tandem lately which we both enjoy a ton.

Been doing tons of yard/garden work this spring and the place is looking great. As much as being on the bike is my therapy it's even more working in the yard for me. My new cherry tree had tons of blooms, growing well, and hopefully there will be some this summer for snacking (along with the blackberries and raspberries).

This past Sunday our family, along with Deb's dad and mom, joined the Jones side of the family for a great Easter service followed with a sunny afternoon of play at my folk's casa. Super good day.

Monthly Update (must not be racing)

I know I repeat this every month, but WOW I can't believe it's already March!!! 'Cross season is not that far away (to quote an old favorite Ren and Stimpy "happy happy joy joy...")...
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Riding/training is going well it seems (but until the wheels are rolling in competition you never know) as I am getting a nice mix of road, gravel, and single track with varying degrees of length and intensity. I feel a tad better than where I was this time last year and still 8-10lbs lighter. This weekend is the Frozen Waffles Training Race in SGF and for the most part that's what it is, a training event and not so much a race. Who knows who will show up and how folks will want to ride, but for me in the Masters 40+ race I am hoping to get a couple others with myself to steadily take pulls from the gun for the 44 miles and simply maintain a steady effort going seeing where the chips fall at the end. I have no misconception of winning anything, but do want a solid workout for the entire event. Guess I should renew my license today...

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Other than that I am looking forward to either God's Country (Lawrence, KS) or Lost Valley (STL) mtb races toward the end of the month, Bone Bender, OMBA (both mtb races), and Joe Martin (mini stage road race) in Fayetteville, AR in April. Haven't really looked much past that, but figure on a couple more mtb races in May before shutting it down to crit racing the summer.

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On the home front we have put our house on the market for sale as we have outgrown it (with the addition of the little guy). No telling how long it will take to sell as we aren't 'fire selling' it and when/if it happens it will. Not looking at other homes as until our sells I don't want to know what's out there. We did meet with a builder to cost construction prices and unlike the appraisal's of property/homes the materials/construction prices have continued to increase with inflation and it's more realistic to buy a nice used one than to build.

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A couple weekends ago I took the little boys (and a friend) to a fun little, but long, cave out north of town right above the Pomme de Tarre River. We all had headlamps and we were all shocked that little 6 yr old 'D' led the way back into the darkness. The only thing that freaked him out was the bats hanging here and there. After the cave it was to the river for some fun.

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Basketball ball season for Ian has been an interesting one (solidly good, but interesting). He's played up on a 6th grade Bolivar team who had a pretty nice year: 1st Courts session they were 9-1, the second 7-3, Rock Solid league undefeated, Champs of the Fair Play tourney, and 3rd of a tourney at the Courts earlier this year. He was a strong contributor and had a blast. This was the serious team. Then there was the 5th grade team (first year I didn't coach them) that was not good at all and it was very frustrating for E. Early on we decided to take the 5th grade as practice sessions and work on specific things each game and not worry about the overall outcome (his team was just that bad, but these are his friends and wanted to help them out). I have no idea what their record is, but with three games to go they don't have a chance to get near .500. The kid has kept to his deal of maintaining straight A's in studies and getting enough rest although that is starting to take it's toll (he's looking tired from time to time). 6th grade finished up, 5th grade has a handful of games in the session remaining and then it's a fresh start. He opted to skip competitive baseball this year (mixed feelings from Deb and I) and keep playing some basketball (his overwhelming passion) so I put together a couple guys from Bolivar, Stockton, and Ozark for the next session at the Courts. We are keeping it pretty low key with just a couple practices at the beginning then it pretty much show up and play 10 games and maybe a couple tourney's. The kids on this composite team and all pretty much solid players so it should be fun for the boys not to have a 'weak link' (or two or three) on a team.

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Jake is hitting some 'freshman blues' it appears as his 18 hr class load is taking it's toll along with his Dairy Queen job has gone from a couple days a week to four days. Deb and I have told him that's too much and he is missing out on 'college' fun and stuff by working that much, but it's his choice and we'll see how he handles it (growing up = figuring it out = stinks sometimes). He is running quite a bit for fun and long boarding a ton. He picked up Ian a sweet nickle board for E's B-day and both are enjoying getting out together. He is popping by the house more and more these days and am not sure what that's all about (his mom loves it, but I think he needs to stick to campus more...)???

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The little man is still in (constant, it seems) hold in the Foster system. We are told they are moving him toward adoption, but the evidence of this is yet seen (sigh). We fully understand there is a process to follow and agree with it, but it seems to be taking longer than it should. Anyways, he is growing into our family day by day (and visa versa for us) as he's been with us over 9 months now. All of us (to include the boys) couldn't imagine him not with us as he's just one of the Jones'. Will be fun to share video and pics once he is openly ours.

Already Well Into February

This year is flying by and I am not doing a good job of keeping this here blog up to date...

Lots of stuff going on these days as the riding (mtb, dirt/gravel, and road) is pretty consistant and progressing well and I feeling really positive about the upcoming spring/summer lead up to next fall's main objective.

Last weekend Ira and I (Jake was swamped with college work, welcome to real life, and couldn't make it) ran the Sylamore 25k trail race in Arkansas on a fantastic morning. It was the first time that I just couldn't get motivated to train/run (simply itching to ride more) to condition myself to be competitive so after not running a step for the last three weeks leading up to the event I was simply going to enjoy the morning and slip thru this will minimal sufferage and accept being a 'mid-pack' runner (and that's what I did). Pretty cool trail and was able to run with a couple of folks that kept it interesting.

After lunch and a quick nap Ira and I jumped on the mtb's and knocked out 3hrs (legs were cooked at the end). We planned to ride 5+ hrs the next day but a huge storm came thru and we chose to head back home and Sunday ended up with 3 hrs at Sac. All good stuff. Bike handling and flow is way ahead of this time last year so that's a good sign.

Watching my intake (eating) a little closer over the winter and am near 10lbs lighter than this time last year, which is odd as I am typically a guy that appears to have 10lbs to shift around, but I feel pretty stinking lean and the strength has not suffered so another reason to look forward to upcoming events...

Monday (Pres' day) we all slept in late then headed to SGF for some zoo time. The boys (along with Deb and I) enjoy zoos and although SGF's suck it's better than nothing.

Ian had a couple ball games later at The Courts and that seems to be mostly how our evenings go as of the last 5 months with a couple more weeks of playing on two teams then it drops to just one so that will be nice. The little guy hopefully will have soccer and baseball coming up soon.

This clip was shot one random Friday night (8:30pm) when I was ready for PJs, but E-ball said there was work to be done at the gym:



Speaking of the little guy, the 'system' is moving along at snail's pace, but that's ok as it gives him ample time for everyone to settle in with each other more intimently. A couple weeks ago was the first time he told me he loved me (that was huge) and he is calling me Dad pretty consistant now. Next court date is in March and hopefully the goal with move toward adoption, but you never know what will come up (but fingers are crossed).

Jake, as mentioned earlier, is getting a taste of a heavy load as he is taking 18 hours while working a couple days a week. Good experience for him as he's learning prioritization and balance; I've all the confidence in him and while he looks frazzled from time to time he'll come out the other end in good shape. He is absolutley loving his long board and cruises all over on that thing (I need to snag one as its lots of fun carving).

Well, that's about it. Frozen Waffle training race in early March, but it's purely a low-key training event so no need to put emphasis there. Will be a good early measure of fitness though so looking forward to it.

Cruising Thru January

This month is flying right along! The weather has been incredible, but I am itchy for a little snow in which to play...
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Training... er, riding is going pretty good. During January I don't look at any numbers and anything related to 'training'; it's all about just getting out and riding when I can. With the temps being so good that has translated into quite a bit of riding and not much of it on the rollers (weapon of choice in winter). Since most of my spring is racing mtb's (which is kind of funny as I hardly touch single track except for racing) I am spending all my time on my 29er with some 35mm cross tires and 1 x 9 gearing. This set up is great for winter backroad riding while getting me adapted to the mtb position.
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Race calendar for early spring is kind of set (super flexible on most of this):
- Frozen Waffles RR in early March
- God's Country MTB weekend late March
- Omba Caramba MTB mid-April
- Bone Bender 3HR mid-April
- Joe Martin Stage Race late-April
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On a fitness front I somehow stayed clear of the holiday snacks (along with showing some moderation) and now am 170lbs (this time last year I was 178) and feeling pretty lean. This is around where I would like to stay as a couple years ago I dropped to 165lbs and totally felt lacking in power/strength so 168-172 is the focus. Next week I start lower body workouts in the gym and really looking forward to getting it going.
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Jake and I (and Ira) are still running the Syllamo 25 trail race in mid-February and unlike him I going to see how it goes on 'one run a week' (he is knocking out the miles daily). I am feeling my age more and more on the runs and since my runs are all 10+ miles my legs can't take it too often. I am looking forward to the weekend with Jake and getting this stupid running behind me (ha!).
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On the home front we are staying pretty busy with Ian's basketball games and all the boy's general activities. Ian is having the time of his life and when asked if he wants to slow down he replies "why would I do that when I'm doing what I love?" You really need to know the boy to understand his internal drive.
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The little man has really fit in great with us and visa versa; he is so much fun (and work). He and Ian hug and bicker with each other just like they were natural brothers. He is excelling in school, but still struggles with 'personal space' issues from time to time; he has really come a long ways and it's getting better and better daily. Deb is almost always referred as 'mom' now and he is occasionally calling me 'dad' which I have to say is pretty cool. It is unknow when (or if, although it looks pretty good) he will become available for adoption, but we aren't letting it effect the way we love on him.
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Jake had a great first semester at SBU and has a tough one (18hrs) this spring. He picked up a sweet Bustin long board a couple months back and is loving cruising on it.
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Deb is, well, Deb (translated to super awesome!); keeping busy keeping the rest of us in line...

Still Alive

Not a single post since returning from our cruise in early December and the reason - lazy.

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Christmas was great for all as was the New Year's festivities.

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In review/hindsight now with US Nationals done, I made the absolute correct decision to stop my racing with MO State Champs as there is no way to be a functional part of the family and have gotten training/racing in order to stay sharp into January. Don't really foresee me hitting Nationals or other races into late December or early January - just not worth taking away from the family and friends during the holidays. Good to see JPow get a Nat'l win and even better was watching a great race.

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Been running and riding the 29'er SS (only gravel roads and no trails as of yet) casually and will probably pick up a little training regiment in a week or so in order to hit some early mtb events. Trying to see how a 16mile trail run/race goes on 'a couple runs a week' program (ha, not expecting much). Jake on the other hand is flying and it'll be interesting to see if he goes after the win come mid-February or if he hangs out with the 'old man' mid-pack; either way I'm having fun on our outings.

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Ian is chest deep into basketball season and so far (since late Oct) has played 28 games between his 5th grade team and the 6th grade (playing up) at The Courts and a couple weekend tournaments. We made a deal with him that he could play on two teams as long as it doesn't impact his grades and he doesn't make him too tired; so far he is still straight A's and getting plenty of rest... He is loving it!

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Our little guy is really doing well with us and school, but his 'legal free' (adoptability) status is dragging on and looks like nothing will change prior to May. While it's slightly frustrating it's OK and changes nothing on our relationship with him.

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Oh, on a side note: Colt at www.cyclingdirt.com selected MWI as the Best CX Team of the Year (based on FUN); way cool:

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Watch more video of Who's #1? Cyclocross Rankings 2011/2012 on cyclingdirt.org

MO State Photo Dump

Here are some pictures from Nate taken at the MO State Champs (a little late getting these out):

State Race and the Bahamas

Quick post to catch up on the last couple of busy weeks:

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After three days at Jingle Cross I was surprised to find my legs were not cooked (as they were last year) and I felt pretty sharp all week leading up to Sunday's MO State Champs in KC. Dale and I both skipped Boss Cross #4 as the forecast was for rain and figured it was best to skip and save it all for Sunday.

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Loaded up early Sunday morning with Dale, Ira, and Nate and headed off to Raytown (KC) in a chilly conditions. Showed up to the course and found it pretty much like BC #3, but this time a muddy mess very similar to Sat/Sun at Jingle Cross. Walked the course and skipped pre-ride and snagged a decent warm up; felt ready to go.

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Lined up in the Masters 45+ with eight others while the other masters categories had several racers in upper 30's* temps but not too windy. Looking at the competition I felt confident in my fitness and needed to ride a clean (relative term) race and not make mistakes. My group was the last to go off and shortly into the race I established a large lead and moved through the younger fields. Rode good lines, only bobbled once (down hill mud corner), and came away with the win. First State jersey (2nd twice) which felt pretty good (2nd goal of the year accomplished). The Blue was totally junked up with thick mud, but never had a single issue handling it; Nate let me use his bike in the pits, but I never really needed it (nice to know I had the option).

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more pics coming...

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Dale killed it in his 55+ race taking home the win and State jersey; awesome and a great reward as he worked so hard this 'cross season and rode so smooth in adverse conditions.

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Ira skipped racing as his clinicals had kept him from riding for a handful of weeks and Nate took a tons of pics. Fun having the crew on hand hearing the support (and heckles - ha!). These guys are awesome and I owe a successful season to them; wouldn't trade these guys for any training partners.

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Season consolidated: 18 races since Dogfish (Hermann) in mid-Sept; two primary goals (win Cat 3 Dogfish and win State race) accomplished; rode pretty decent at L'ville and Jingle Cross; and had only two races in which I felt flat - Gateway Cross (20th - ugh) and the 2nd race at Jingle Cross. Other than that I was encouraged with my fitness and driving ability which makes me hungry to increase this for the '12 season; especially since I move to the Masters 45+ division at the larger races - very motivated! According to USAC standings I ended my season ranked 9th in MO (all categories) and even though these are subject to scrutiny, I'll take it.

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Cleaned up at GLove's casa after the race and then Deb and I headed to the airport for a week of relaxation on a cruise to the Bahamas. Flight and overnight stay in Orlando before heading to the boat in Port Canaveral; departure mid-afternoon and the relaxation began for the next 6 days. This is Deb's 5th cruise and my 4th so we know exactly what to expect. This time around we opted away from excursions at each port (Nassau, Half Moon Cay, and Freeport, Bahamas) and wanted to keep it simple spending tons of time soaking up the sun (Deb w/a book and I napping) on the deck or on a beach. Mission accomplished as that was the most peaceful/restful vacation ever!!!!! Had so much fun with my girl. Every day was clear and sunny in the lower 80's* - perfect.

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Flight home Saturday night and back to the boys; great welcome home.

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So what's up next? My 'cross season is done even though there are a handful of local events coming up and Nats/Worlds in early January. Deb and the boys have given me so much freedom to play 'biking rockstar' since September that I simply couldn't ask for another six weeks especially with Christmas thrown in there; absolutely no regrets or issues skipping Nats (after all its Madison, WI in January - brutal). Every year at the end of 'cross season I brake down the bikes until Jan 1 and totally take a break from riding, but always lace up the running shoes and hop out on the trails (love winter running). This February Jake (50k), Ira (25k), and I (25k) are signed up for Sylamore trail race so its time to hit the trails. After that it's back to some spring mtb racing as it worked out pretty good last year racking up some base miles and improve handling skills.

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So as I just mentioned, I can't say thank you enough to Deb for letting me train daily and be gone pretty much every weekend since mid-Sept; she is awesome!