Friday, October 31, 2008

Is It Just Me...?

or do these things resemble something else? Who would have thought that there would be not only 1 but 2 ways to protect your banana. I have had a banana guard for several years. I am not too sure on the banana bunker, that looks like it may have dual purposes. I mean, it's ribbed!

Banana Bunker




Banana Guard, mine glows in the dark!

Happy Halloween.
Out.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

What the Hell is Twitter?

Jesus...another way to communicate? I am always a few steps behind. I just got a facebook account to check that out, which I still don't fully understand. I have never gotten into myspace. I obviously dig blogs, and now twitter. I am sure there are others out there too, this is like a full time job.
I'm going to go read an old fashioned book, that I still know how to do.

Anyone Like Venison?

Ran an hour! I have no idea how many miles that is but more than I have run in 5 years. No injuries either. Zoe and I saw, well I saw, a dead buck on the side of the trail at the North Loop. Looked pretty fresh. I tried to see an entry/exit wound from an arrow, the city has a hunt there, but saw none. The doesn't mean there isn't, I didn't want Zoe getting all crazy. She was 3 feet from the thing and never knew it was there...great hunting dog.
I briefly thought about going back to gut the thing for some meat, but I have done that once in my life...so I am sure I would fuck that up. Now if it was a chicken I would have supper for tonight.
I bet this spring it gets pretty rank riding by that, yummy!

Running

Time to get ready for the weekly trail run. My dog loves it, as do I...it's just getting up and doing it that sucks. Trying out the North Loop today.
Here's to no sprained ankles or fucked up knees!

I made contact this morning with my financial advisor regarding the Feds dropping the Funds rate again. I asked him how this would or would not affect mortgages...thinking of mine. I think I need to go back to school to understand what he said.

Out.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Pumpkin Time...Not Blumpkin

As you will see my camera skills suck as well as my carving skills. Brinna drew the faces, and I improvised. I have had 5 political signs stolen from my yard, I am not too optimistic about the pumpkins lasting either. Damn kids...at least it's not a flaming bag of poo on my steps. Yet!


9 to Noon

Man, I like the 9 to noon shift at work. The doors don't open till 10 so really it's like two hours, then the day is free...and what a day. Man is it gorgeous out. I did my workouts backwards today. I should have gone to the gym in the morning and then rode this afternoon. Oh well.
Only two more times of aftercare! I am not too sure what to expect after last weeks crazies. If the other people are there that were not last week it should be entertaining to say the least. Everyone will be talking over each other and I will pick at my fingernails and the leader will talk about God and Satan.
I don't have to do this so I am not too sure why I go, or why 10 weeks is a magic number. I suppose it is just a transition into everyday life or something like that. I wonder if I will get a certificate or something. I would like one of those 6 foot trophies you get a BMX races or Karate events with a big bottle of booze on top with a big, red X through it.
Out.

Wednesday Morning Ride

As I try to type this I struggle to move my fingers...they are still stiff and cold from the morning ride. Mike and I were the only ones to make it. The boys went out celebrating last night and most likely are nursing a hangover. E attempted to make it but showed up at 7:37 for a 7:00 ride?
It was a good ride, nice and casual. But it was colder than I thought. The 'ol pee pee started to get cold...not good. Time to break out the wind proof gear. Luckily it was not windy or things could have gotten real ugly. You know that feeling you get in your hands when blood starts to flow through them again after they have been cold for so long, it fucking hurts. Now imagine that on your junk. I have only had this happen once and it brings you to your knees. Once is enough.
Funny thing is it is suppose to be in the 50's the rest of the week. Oh well, work out is done!
Out.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Monday Night Ride...

As predicted it was cold. I did a prelap around 7:30 and already frost was starting to form on the grass. It was night of the animals last night. I saw a huge possum (freakin ugly) and a bigger raccoon that would not leave the trail.

More people showed up than expected, about 10! Two new comers too, Hans and Franz. It was great to see those guys again, it's been way too long. But they are trackies now and I am, well me!

The ride was great. Steady pace the entire time without too much stopping. Poor Mike had shit luck last night. On the way to the ride he was almost tagged by a car and broke a CrossMax spoke getting out of the way. He met up with us later after he did a world record spoke change. Then he got a flat on his front tire. Out came the Zefal inflate and seal, only to get some white, sticky shit all over. Yeah, we made some jokes about the white, sticky stuff! We are guys after all. A picture and report can be found here. We got some air in later and it seemed to work.
I ended up with just under 3 hours and not too cold either, except water bottles started to freeze. Was expecting to watch the Phillies and Rays but it was suspended due to rain...so tonight it is on.

Damn, this is my third time editing this post. I almost forgot to give Josh some shit for skipping the ride to sip some wine with a special friend. Are you kidding me? Jeffro was absent too, maybe he was sipping wine as well.

Tomorrow is the Wednesday Morning Road Ride...should be good weather.


Last but not least, there is a new blog out there: twowheelterrorist
I worked with Brian at ONAG back some time ago. He now resides in Duluth and rumor has it he may be back in STC sometime next year.
Out.

Monday, October 27, 2008

Brrrrrr

It's a bit too cold for shorts for the morning commute, live and learn. I don't have an in between pant/knicker...need to figure something out. The shop is a balmy 58 degrees and I am still in shorts. We will see how long I can hold out.

Charge your lights it's the Monday Night MTB Ride! It's going to be below freezing the entire time we ride. I will be prepared.

See ya there.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

P.E.T.A. is Pissed

My Dad does not cook very often and when he does it is either chili or meatloaf. The word meatloaf, or any work with loaf in it, conjures up bad images and tastes. But my dad's meatloaf rocks. The recipe is easy: two parts pig, one part cow or pork burger, spicy Italian sausage, and hamburger. Yummy.


This thing is huge, 3 lbs! Three adults, two children, and scraps for a dog and we ate about half. How the hell does a dude eat a 15 lb burger?

The DQ Superman

A few posts back, when I was ranting about the school levy in St. Cloud and Abortion, I mentioned the guy that stands on the corner of the local DQ.
Well I found a picture. He has gained some weight. He doesn't get it from the DQ since he has a restraining order or something like that. Interesting. It is fun to think what makes some people tick.

Ha,I Started Another Blog!

I know, I already update incessantly but this new one is for the ski season and will be for waxing tips etc. I launched it today because it's snowing!
Check it out.

If I get around to it later I will recap the mtn. bike ride this morning. Right now it's time to put kids down to nap and fold some laundry. Damn, I hate folding laundry. This stuff has been in the dryer since Monday.

Uhh, It's a bit windy...

My golf green yard is once again covered with leaves this windy morning. Oh well, it lasted about 6 hours.
I did some form of yard work yesterday from 10:00 to 6:00, another 8 hour shift. Having an ipod changes everything...everything. I made 4 runs to the compost site with leaves, grass, and trees. I have become sick of trimming the mangy shrubs that divide our backyard from the alley. I cut 'em all out. It was a bit more than anticipated but got to use a few different tools of destruction. Up next I get to dig out a shit ton of stumps and roots...treat it like a work out.

Man, I just read what I wrote. Kind of boring, who cares. It's like a fucking diary entry.
I'll try harder next time.
Time to fight the wind...gusting to 35 mph!

Saturday, October 25, 2008

From a Friend

Here's My Vote

Tomorrow is the Sunday Morning Road Ride. However, highs of 39, very windy, and snow flurries are predicted! That does not sound too fun on the road bike, but the mountain bike...
Start at the shop (or the Corner Bean), buck the wind to Quarry Park, sail with the wind to Oak Hill, Plum Creek, and beyond! That's my vote.
All E has to do is get the El Santo ready! With some sweet talking I bet he could get Josh and/or Darren to help out.
That's my two cents.
Now it's time to go for a run. I am hoping the wind picks up while I am gone and rids my yard of leaves, again. I hate oak trees.

Friday, October 24, 2008

I Know This Guy

Is that a BMX bike? Looks like Black Label beer, that always gave me gas!

The New Friday Night!

Ahh Friday night and I have the weekend off from work. About 4 months ago at this time I would pretty much be glued to the tv in my own little drunken world. Not tonight or anyother night. Jen is out with the ladies, doing god or God know what. Brinna, Avery, and I ordered up a Knockers pizza (I always laugh at the name), watched Curious George, and played Beauty Salon on Dad. I have more gel in my hair than Josh! My finger nails are pink, I have butterfly stickers on my earrings/plugs, and my lips have sparkly lip gloss...and I love it. Sorry no picture. Maybe next time we will break out the hair color.
My wife met up with some friends at the Martini Lounge after school. Teaching "must" be tough, it's 9:30 and she still isn't home. Maybe they found some Chip and Dales!

Are You Kidding Me?

On vacation in Florida I ate a 1 lb burger with toppings, fries, etc. I got my picture taken and it is still up on the wall. I woke up at 2 in the morning with the sweats and I had to take a shit.
How in the hell can a man eat a 15 lb cheeseburger with 5 lbs of toppings, a cup each of ketchup, mustard, relish, and mayo? It came to a bit over 20 lbs! He ate it in about 4.5 hours. He either took the worlds biggest dump the next morning or is very constipated. How do you even cook a 15 lb burger?

Music Friday

Drizzly Friday morning commute to the gym today. It is some of my favorite weather to bike in. I like cloudy, rainy days. I think I would like Seattle. Some people get SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) in the winter...I am the opposite. Maybe it is me being an introvert and I like bad weather days since it keeps the "weak" inside!

I listened to Peaches again. The lyrics are crude but I like it because the music is upbeat, dance, techno style that is currently very entertaining for me.
I also got the first album of Rancid, 1993...also good stuff. I struggle to understand the lyrics but I still like it. Punk music is great cause 2 minutes is a long song.

I got the tentative schedule today for snow making in the St. Cloud area. I volunteered and said nights would work the best with my work/family schedule. I, however, was not anticipating midnight to 6 am...ouch. Oh well, snow is a good thing and it is only one time, I think.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Stealing is Fun

I joined facebook pretty much to see what it's all about. I still don't totally get it but then why do I blog and read blogs and let myself be consumed by blogs...hmmm good question. I guess it's to each their own. I like facebook cause you can steal pictures and post them anywhere, like here!

Procrastination

I rock at procrastination. I am going to give running another whirl this morning but am pushing the departure time back further and further. I will run but when is the question.
Jen has wanted a new outside railing for over 3 years now. She actually purchased one this early spring. It is still in the garage in the packaging untouched. I have actually found someone to help me for some skis in exchange but still procrastinate. I was to meet him yesterday but forgot. I sent him a text this morning to see if we could look at it today and find a time next week to do it! Jen wants it in by Halloween. Plenty of time.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Like You Care

I have added links (on the right sidebar) of the music I am currently listening to. Maybe I will turn you onto something, or...you may turn me onto something!
Enjoy.

I don't think Albuterol has a website, but once they do I will add a link!

Where the Fuck is my Soap Box?

Ah, there it is. Let's go...
For the last several years, or so it seems, the residents of St. Cloud have had to vote on a levy for District 742. Sometimes it passes and a lot of the time it does not pass. With my wife being a teacher I hear a somewhat biased opinion. This is my opinion, not hers. I have criticized the school board, teachers, and administration for not being more active in promoting the past levies. I felt they assumed if they had a levy on the ballot it would pass. Yeah, they would put up some lawn signs, mostly teachers, and a billboard here and there. I am for the levy, always have been, but I thought those in the direct line of fire should be more proactive. Well this year they have been. The past few Wednesday mornings I have seen teachers, administration, school board members, and city council members out at busy intersection informing and promoting the levy. My wife did it on her day off at 6 in the morning. Believe me, that is a big achievement for her! She did get flipped off however...fucking Stearns county.
If the levy does not pass junior high activities will be canceled...sweet more fat kids to make fun of. 40+ teachers will be cut, so bigger classes. My wife teaches science and next semester she will start labs using open flames. Can you imagine a lab with open flames, 35+ kids, with 1/3 being special needs, ie retards...ok not all of them but I see some of the tests my wife has to correct and my 5 year old would write better and get more right. If the levy passes in full it will bring us on par with the state average for $$$/student. If only questions 1 and 2 pass we will be on average with surrounding schools. If not we will have more gas station attendants, Cub Foods cart getter's, and Superman freaks standing on the corner of the local DQ. We already have one of these and he scares me.

What I don't get is a lot of the people that don't want to be taxed more also don't want abortion legal. Ah great there I go opening a can of worms. (This is a huge assumption on my part. I am basing this off of people that have yard signs of candidates that are anti-abortion and also signs stating no new taxes. Bike in and around Stearns county and you will see many signs of how sensitive abortion is here.) But seriously, lets not allow abortion but not provide the necessary tools to give these kids the means to achieve some success or at least be a contributing member of society. I am not advocating that abortion is the answer to smaller class sizes, I just find it somewhat hypocritical to be anti-abortion and against the levy. I am also not naive enough to believe that if the levy fails so do many students. I do believe that it will tax an already struggling system and more students will fall between the proverbial cracks.

Oh yeah, biking. Go for a ride. The Wednesday Morning Ride was canceled to do the "threat" of rain. Turns out we could have made it, oh well. It has been noted that E did make it to the shop for the ride. To that I give you props.
Out.

No More Word Verification!

I got sick of entering random letters to comment on my own blog. Let the spam begin. Penis enlargement, 10 hour erections, hot women just waiting for me to call, I won $1 million dollars, and I have huge investment opportunities in Bangkok.
Sweet...today is gonna be a good day.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Will I Ever Grow Up?

Listening to music this morning on my ride to the gym I found myself laughing out loud to the lyrics of a song. This made me wonder if I will ever grow up. I'm not too sure and I'm not too sure I want to.
Here's why:
1.) I think farts are funny. I have not heard a fart and not smiled at a minimum.

2.) 90% of the music on my ipod I won't let my kids listen to. Lyrics like, "you gotta rock, rock the shocker...thumbs up fingers out..." don't really qualify as "family" music...and I like it.

3.) I know who Veroncia Zemanova is and think she's hot. Google her.

4.) I think James Bond movies would be better if they were rated R.

5.) I sometimes peruse the toy isle and I don't have my kids with me.

6.) I would rather have a nice bike than a nice car.

7.) I like offensive jokes, even if I know they are "wrong".

8.) I like animation movies.

9.) I know and like Ice Cube, Ice T, Too $hort, Peaches, Easy E, Lords of Acid, Notorious BIG, Ludacris, etc.

10.) I like the Victoria Secret catalog.

Well I don't think I am going to grow up anytime soon, sorry Jen.

If Feels Good to be Happy


This is a real smile, I am happy. Haven't been "naturally" happy for awhile. It feels great!




Getting the face ready for Halloween. Boo!

Monday, October 20, 2008

Night Ride

Monday Night MTB Ride was tonight. 13 riders strong! It's crazy to see that many lights twisting through the woods. The problem that comes with a lot of people on a group ride is keeping it just that, a group ride. It wasn't too bad and I think fun was had by all. Last week my feet froze this week it was my hands. Next week I think I'll nail the clothing thing.

I am disappointed that I am the only one to vote for Britney Spears. Oh well, more for me I guess.

That's all I got for now.

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Cleaning Time?


I got pissed today when I had to get Jen's mtn bike ready for a ride today. Not because she was going for a ride or that I had to get her bike ready. But I couldn't get to it! I never thought there was a thing as too many bikes, but this is getting ridiculous. Well I am throwing the Salsa Chili Con Crosso up on eBay tonight. I love everything about the bike, but I do not use it. It is always sad to send a bike on its way but it is time.
Happy Trails and go Boston

Great Ride, but...

What a great day for a ride. Sunny, some wind (which I prefer to no wind), 7 riders, and long! Josh, Darren, Jesrin, Mike, Schlict, E, and myself all rolled out from the Bean this morning. We left a bit late waiting for E. He mentioned he was up till 4 in the morning. Hopefully there is a story in there somewhere!
We headed out to Briggs lake area. I got the first flat of the day. Pretty much destroyed my tire, but fixed with a patch kit and gel wrapper. Used two tubes, the first one we ripped the valve off. Cruised around Briggs Lake out to Duelm and kicked it back in. We were pushing it close to opening time at the shop. Then Jesrin got the second flat of the day. This too took two tubes. Good thing we all had tubes to pass around. His also took a gel wrapper to fix. I guess that is what we get for riding out in "truck" country. Lots of broken beer bottles all over. We made it home in time but not before waiting for the Hwy 10 light to change and a train to pass.
The highlight of the trip was a Unicorn statue on Briggs Lake. We should have taken a picture, next time.
Here are some pic's of the ride.




E hiding his face after being asked what really happened till 4 in the morning.



Fixing flat #2! Jesrin needs a new jersey.



Waiting for the train.



Darren...well, being Darren.

Sounds like this may be the last nice day before the temp drops. Glad I was able to enjoy it. Time to mow.
Out.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Britney vs. Christina



Cast your vote! Best election yet.

Call Out.

Anyone up for a night ride tonight? Not 100% that I can but will know by this afternoon. Where does the Sunday morning ride meet...Bean or the Shop? Time?

Chad and I did about a 2 hour road ride yesterday. It was probably the best ride I have had in Bemidji. It was the perfect temp and negligible wind! I had no idea where we were and sometimes that is the best part about a road ride!

We should be heading out in the next few hours, just in time to rake some leaves. Ugh. If I am lucky it is windy in St. Cloud and had blown all the leaves into the neighbors yard.

Out.

Friday, October 17, 2008

Up North

We made it to Bemidji and man is it cold out. Lots of frost on all the cars this morning. Were heading out for a road ride sometime today. My vote it to let it warm up a bit. Yeah, I am getting soft in my old age.
One would think we would have been able to sleep in this morning...but nope, up at 6:30! Well Jen is still sleeping and she is the one that slept the three hour trip up here, teaching "must" be hard work.
No calls from the shop so it must not have burned down!

Well it is Friday so that makes it Music Friday. I purchased another Lords of Acid track set on i tunes and am thus far pretty pleased. I listened to them yesterday at the gym. The lyrics made me smile and laugh...sometimes I wish everyone was hearing the same thing I am, I want to see the reaction to (I am paraphrasing) "take me up the rear...lets do it doggy style". Funny stuff.
Also purchased The Crystal Method. This is my 3rd album of there's and I really like it. It is, in my opinion, there best. I don't have access to my i pod so I cannot tell you the title, but just trust me.
All right the kids are calling,
Out.

E...is it there or their?

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Waiting...

I suck at waiting and I hate waiting. Jen met her mom in Big Lake to drop off Zoe, our big ass dog. I'm packed, cleaned the kitchen (more than I ever have), checked my e-mail, facebook, and several blogs, and started to pack the kids stuff. But still I wait. Ugh, so now I bore you with a blog of nothing.

And unrelated to waiting I have another Cannondale poster for you. Off to wait to drive 3 hours to Bemidji.

Almost Time!

Just received the "master" plan or the "big" plan for snow making at Riverside. I tried to upload the picture but I am not sure how to make Adobe work with Blogger, oh well. It appears there has been more planning this year and a volunteer list made. Looks like I will be doing an overnight! Ipod and coffee! This morning is crisp and cool...the time for snow is coming...and I am slowly getting ready. I am still loving the riding so I am happy either way.
Jen and I are hitting the gym than off to Bemidji...brrr.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

MEA Vacation

Today was the last day of school for both Brinna and Jen till Monday. The guys at the shop were kind enough to let me have off as well. Jen and I headed to aftercare this afternoon. Again we were told nobody is perfect except God and that everything happens for a reason and that reason is up to God...and on and on. Sometimes it gets to be a bit overwhelming and almost corny. All I am saying is that there should be a way for people to achieve recovery and not have to have God/Religion play "the" prominent role, but that is somewhat the backbone of the AA program. At Recovery Plus it really depends on the counselor for how much it does play a role. Oh well, that's how so it goes...3 more times. Enough of that. We then picked up the kids and went to Bo Diddley's and the DQ after that to celebrate Brinna getting a good report at her first conferences.

Brinna and her Banana Split, yuck.



Avery likes the cones but not the ice cream. She wanted chicken fingers.


I leave you with this.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

My Wish is my Command

I had a friend go on a trip that would bring him to the home of Leinenkugles beer. I requested a picture of him outside of the world headquarters. Look what I got:



thanks!

Hodge Podge

What the hell happened to the Boston Red Sox? Just finished watching the top of the 6th and the Devil Rays killed 'em. I hate all Florida teams, well not so much the Miami Heat, but all others. Hopefully the next games are better.

Might have a new recruit for the Monday Night MTB Rides! He just scored a new ride, as seen here. I approve...not that he cares but I like 29ers and 1x9's.

We need to get some more riders for the Wednesday Morning Road Ride. Tomorrow at 7 from the shop.

I drove the truck to work today so we could go get some lumber for a few projects at the shop. I planned on leaving it there so I brought my commuter for the ride home. Good thing I did, the truck took a shit at the shop. I believe the ignition switch or something is fubared. We pushed the truck to a parking spot and I dripped power steering fluid or brake fluid the entire way. Fucking sweet. I can pretty much put gas in a car, sometimes check the oil, and if lucky change a tire...but that's it. On a road trip out west in college I put windshield washer fluid in the reservoir for antifreeze, see what I mean? This is gonna cost me. I may set up a fund, stay posted.

Not sure if I will be around for Music Friday so I will add it in now. Today at the gym I listened to Chemical Brothers, "Surrender" and some Minor Threat, "Out of Step". I haven't given Minor Threat much time in the past but when you listen to music on an Ipod you hear everything. I really enjoyed the music. Ian MacKaye is the shit.
I have been a long time fan of the Chemical Brothers. Great music to ride, run, clean, or anything to. Check it out.
Out.

Oh yeah, the game: Tampa Bay 13, Red Sox 3 bottom of the 8th, not looking good.

Crazy

I needed a rest from biking today. My legs are tired and tomorrow morning is the "morning" ride. So I decided to go running! It was actually pretty good. Zoe was freakin excited, I haven't run with her in years.
We'll see how legs feel tomorrow.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Monday Night MTB Ride

Damn...it was a cold Monday night mtb ride. Six hearty soles showed up to battle the cold, mud, and leaves. We did a lap at the North Loop and then headed over to Plum Creek to check out the newly manicured trail! Both my big toes started to get cold at the North Loop. On the way to Plum Creek I thought it would be a good idea to fly through a puddle. Not smart...cold feet got colder and I am sure I got Mike and Darren some too. Dumb ass.


This is what I looked upon my return 2.5 hours later. Damn sexy, I'd have to say! My toes are still cold...it's been awhile since they have felt like this.
Overall it was another great ride. I just wanna know how the hell my legs got beat to shit?
Out.

The Crazies Are Out Today

It's a safe bet that if you are bringing your bike, by bike, to a bike shop in October while it's raining, during working hours, you are crazy.
It's just past noon and we have had our quota for the year already. There are some weird mother fuckers out there...watch out!

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Sunday

What a Sunday. It felt nonstop till about now, so why not blog! The morning started with the morning ride meeting at the Corner Bean for some coffee and Darren's cinnamon roll. We headed out on the infamous Cty rd 8, my favorite but most hate it. E flatted pretty good so I am sure it's on his shit list too. The ride was great. It heated up several times for stop ahead signs, city limit signs and hill tops. Being the heaviest rider I knew I had my work cut out for me. I made it my mission to close the gaps and give some form of a lead out when I could. I think I succeed in this and had fun doing so. I was told I suffer well. I am not too sure what that means, but I will take it. I can't wait for the Wednesday morning ride or tomorrow for the Monday Night Mountain ride. Man I love this stuff.
After the ride we fed the kids and headed out to Avon for some pumpkin picking.



My kid's are on the ends and my niece is in the middle.



I always wanted to be a farmer!



Avery riding a pony. She was afraid at first but didn't want to get off at the end. Kids!



Free rides by yours truly.

Jen dropped me off at work on the way home. I picked up the truck from work and loaded up the clubs new mower for some trail work at Plum Creek. I wasn't too sure how many would show up as it was sprinkling a bit. The usual suspects were there: Kris, Kyia, me and the Wonder Doggg. Oh well more fun for us with the power tools.


Here's a picture of Anderson demonstrating how it's done. The pic was stolen form Kyia.
We pretty much got all of Plum Creek cleared of grass, brush, trees, etc for the rest of the year. The new mower is a big machine but gets the job done faster than mowers or weed whips. Towards the end we lost a bolt holding on a runner, which then proceeded to fall into a blade that can take down 2" trees. That would not have been so bad if the user had not proceeded to use the mower for another 15 minutes! Kyia and I could hear this noise half a field away! Oh well, that's why they have warranty, right?
After trail work my family and I headed to my folks for some supper. Home again, get kids ready for bed, walk Zoe, blog.
Watching the Dodgers beat the Phillies.
Sorry for the long post, if you made it this far.
Out.

Oh yeah, I forgot...

I forgot to mention the location of RJ's. It's in a strip mall that is apart of a Truck Stop off of I94. In the strip mall there is a Subway, Liquor World, Fantasy Gifts (a novelty sex shop), and a movie rental shop. One stop shop for truckers!
E likes the dumpsters too! Good sleeping.

Bad Movie

Jen and I were kid free last night so thought we would take advantage of it. We went to a RJ's to eat. We have heard good things about it so we gave it a try. It was alright, not my favorite but I would go again...maybe. I ordered a Tonic Water but had to send it back twice. Club Soda sucks!
We then went to the DQ as all close in St. Cloud this month for the upcoming winter. We rented the movie August too. Jen fell asleep almost immediately and I forced myself to finish it. Freaking stupid movie. Josh Harnett must be hard up.
Second consecutive Sunday that our morning ride is overshadowed by rain. I'm going, Darren called me a pussy last Sunday and that hurt.

Friday, October 10, 2008

Music on Friday

We will see if I do this every Friday but here we go for this Friday. The music I listened to on my commute and at the gym today are as follows:


Lords of Acid
I really like this band. They are very interesting to say the least. I went to a show of theirs sometime ago and had a blast. My ears took a beating but it was worth it.
Best songs:
1.) Pussy
2.) I Sit on Acid
3.) Am I sexy
4.) Marijuana In Your Brain
5.) Rough Sex
I would categorize it as dance/techno. Check it out.



Afrika Bambaataa and The Soulsonic Force
I discovered these guys recently and have really enjoyed them. They are not new by any means but still good. It's rap, hip hop stuff.
Best Songs:
1.)Sex is Best
2.)Rock Whatcha Got
3.)Planet Rock (very fun, good song)

That's it for now.
Rock on.

Excuses

Rain...what a lovely excuse. I was planning on going running today with Zoe in woods around Riverside Park. I have not run in years but want to give it a try again. I have horrible knees but figure running in the woods will be a bit more forgiving. But it's raining so maybe next time!

Thursday, October 09, 2008

Color is Back!

We just got our 2009 Haro bikes in today and man they have some color. I hope you didn't throw away your jelly bracelets or VHS copy of Rad. If you need your Rad fix let me know I have a DVD version that I think someone copied from VHS.

A Good Day to Call in Sick

Just got back from a 2.5 hour mtb ride with Mike. Man, was it a blast! First off the weather is gorgeous. Sunny, cool but not too cool and windy. I usually hate the wind but I like it mtb. We hit up Quarry Park first. I haven't been there all year. I like it but it's on the other end of town and I don't know a continuous route through the park. Mike does and I only had to walk a couple descents. I am somewhat of a pansy when it comes to descents and rocks. From there we meandered over to Plum Creek and the South Side trails. They are always fun and have huge potential...if you know what I mean.
If I hadn't just ridden with Mike I would call in sick, but I think he would be a bit suspicious now.
Later.

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

Who's In? and Random Shit.

I know most people work in the morning but Mike and I are going to hit the trails 8:30 Thursday morning. Meet at Mike's...Quarry, Plum Creek/South side and maybe more.

I am pretty sure we are going to do trail work at Plum Creek this coming Sunday, 3-6 pm. I will post more when I know more.

I tried to sign up for facebook and got denied...not too sure what that means. I thought facebook was for college kids looking to score. Shows you what I know...maybe that's MySpace or is that match.com?

It's a lot not alot. Learn when to use too and not to. I need to learn the difference between quite and quit, I can never remember.

Boy this is just random shit, I am trying too hard.
Sorry.
Out.

Excue me, but did you say Satan?

Not too many takers for the morning ride today, just Mike and I. It was crisp and dark. We started out with the lights flashing. Pretty good ride...even with a ride through Sartell. We took a small detour and biked by a house for sale, only $1.2 million and you get to deal with the traffic free of charge.
I am so excited, insert sarcasm, for my aftercare tonight. Last week one of the counselors looked just like Sarah Palin and the other therapist/counselor used the word Satan! I mean who uses that word anymore? Last week I wrote Sarah Palin on a piece of paper and handed it to Jen. It took all she had not to laugh. That's my goal and maybe to use a Satan here and there!

Tuesday, October 07, 2008

Have Huffy...Will Fix

At bike shops around the nation, hell the world, mechanics deal with customers coming in with bike problems. In an effort to pin point the problem the mechanic will ask some probing questions to only get the same damn response: "I was just riding along" of as we like to call it JRA.
So we decided to do our own JRA.


Here's Darren JRA. Good thing he jumped off the bike before hit that minor drop off. That might have hurt.



This is me JRA. I too jumped off in time before I hit a wall that just jumped out of nowhere...



As you can see something is funny and doesn't seem to ride like it use to.



Yeah, I am really not too sure what happened, but I think something is wrong with the shifter thing.



Josh thought he could fix it.



Still more fixin!



Well here you go, should fit in your suitcase now. Those airline people won't know it's a bike.

We Got Socks!


We received our shipment of SmartWool socks the other day. Perfect for these chilly days!

Monday, October 06, 2008

I Know These Guys


Two of the three of these guys lived in St. Cloud "back in the day". They have since headed west to CO. Mike I met out there and his wife is a higher up at Coors. I don't like the beer but still that's pretty cool.
Someday I hope to make it back out to visit these guys and ride too.

Better Ride

Just got back from the night ride...no rain! It was a good turnout. In fact, we had three shops represented: Revolution, Granite, and Erik's. Not that I was counting, but we had more! We did a lap at the North Loop, Riverside/Talahi, and then some headed to Plum Creek/River Bluff trails. It was my idea to head to the South side but my lights took a shit and I brought the Erik's guy back to his car. Only one broken chain and I think most of the riders had lights designed for riding a bike in the woods at night! Can't wait till next Monday. If it doesn't rain tomorrow night I will head out then too. Pending boss approval!

Mixed Emotions


Looks like rain later today and tonight which may put the Monday Night MTB ride on hold. On the other hand I just received my sweet Showers Pass jacket, so a little rain on the ride home would be nice to test it out.
I guess mud never hurt anyone either...the trail on the other hand...

Sunday, October 05, 2008

About Time

Mike received this frame from is wife Angela as a wedding gift a very long time ago. Today it was about 90% completed.
I think it turned out TITS.


On another note we had the drunkest customer to date come to the store today. He actually came in twice and forgot he already had asked me to fix his bike. He also forgot what day it was and most of the conversation we had the first time he was in. The second time he left he had a hell of time getting on his bike. It took him about 5 minutes to do so and then proceeded to bob and weave across the parking lot adjacent to ours. Hope he made it home ok as he is a pretty good customer and nice guy. I thought about going out to him with a bottle of water and have him sit down for awhile...not sure if that would of open a can of worms or a can of whoop ass. I'll I know I am thankful that is not me and thankful I won't have the headache he will tomorrow morning!

Last but not least I have a Salsa El Gogo frame and fork for sell on ebay!!! Spread the good word.
Out.

Ah Shit


Darren just called a bit ago wondering where I was. I asked if he got the message of the ride being canceled...he said no and that we were weak for not riding. Since then I have been contiplating of whether I should ride or not. I have checked the weather several places and all point to rain very soon. I know I will be pissed if it doesn't rain. Man I hate this. I would end the ride at the shop, since I work today. I hate starting the day all wet and knowing I should really tear into my bike.
Fuck it. I am going to the gym, by bike of course.

Ah Crap


I love rain. I love they way it smells, feels, and sounds. I love how it keeps people inside, that's the introvert in me. But I hate when it cancels a planned ride. Damn. I guess it's to the gym again. I could go do some hill bounds in preparation for the upcoming ski season but I am not quite ready for that. Besides, my arm wrestling rematch with Anderson is coming up. Not that I am keeping track but I am undefeated against Anderson.

Saturday, October 04, 2008

There's a blog for everything!

If your bored on a Saturday night check out this blog.
Time to read, Goodnight.

A missed night on the town...

Last night the great crew of friends Jen and I hang out with went to a local establishment to celebrate Oktoberfest. We were invited but Jen had prior plans and I was home watching movies, eating pizza, whoppers, Twix bars, drinking cola and coloring with the girls.
Even though I am a recovering alcoholic we would have gone if it worked out. I wish we were able to go since it sounds like it was a good time.
BUT...the part I don't miss is the morning after, hangovers and stink ass. Gotta love German Beer!
Thanks to my friends for still inviting us to events and treating me the same and not acting "weird" around me.



These are just a few of my friends, they don't like Jen too much.

Friday, October 03, 2008

The Finest of St. Cloud

Back in the day, this band use to play downtown St. Cloud and sometimes at First Avenue in the big 'ol city. Since then they have secluded themselves to basement guitar sessions. Rumors have surfaced of a comeback but to date they have been just that, rumors.
Give the "fans" what they want...a new CD!

All Wired Up


I think we have a few too many iPods at the shop, but somehow we listen to the same shit over and over again. Maybe if 95% of the songs didn't have "non suitable phrases" in them our music selection would be a bit more diverse. So as it stands we listen to: techno/dance, reggae, whatever the shit Josh likes, Jazz (when Harry is working), and the damn FloBots or the Faint.
Enjoy.