Nick is 30 today. 30... That's crazy. I'm not far off either. I still feel like a kid. I know, before any of you call me a kid.. I know. It's all relative.
We're going to Bob's Bar tonight. He's never been. We'll meet up with a cousin of his and her husband. It should be alot of fun.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Giant Rainier
They didn't have this bike in stock when I stopped by Spoke-n-Sport on Saturday. While they did have a small, I needed a medium. So, I did look at the Yukon. I didn't like the red and silver paint that it had. I'd seen online that the Yukon was available in white, so I asked about that. They would have to order it.
The downfall of shopping during the off season is that selection is really limited, even at a bike shop. They had quite a few road bikes to choose from, but not so many mountain bikes, it seemed.
Fortunately, the guy helping me checked the computer. There was a medium white Yukon available, and there was also a medium Rainier available too. He said that the components were pretty much a toss up. The Yukon may have had a stronger wheelset, but I don't envision trail riding THAT often. For $100 less, I figured that the Rainier would definately be the better option especially when they were so close to each other.
So there you go. The bike and the story. Additional chapters later.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas
I really and truly wanted to send out Christmas cards this year. Time just slipped by. I don't make Happy Holiday cards to dishonor the notion of saying "Merry Christmas", Peace on Earth or anything... We truly wish all of those things to all of our family and friends.
I make Happy Holiday cards because I figure that means we have until Valentine's day to send them. :D I kid. I feel that we at least have until sometime in January. But, in an electronic age and with an effort to be more green, here's our digital card. Prints can be available. :-)
Nick and I are both well. We hope that health and happiness have found all of you too. We haven't yet added children, but our roster of animals is growing. Calves and chickens keep Nick occupied with a few chores at home.
This fall we brought home a second dog. Max is a German Shepherd who had been with Nick's boss' family. Things weren't quite working there. We kind of wanted a German Shepherd eventually and decided to give Max a home. Instantly Ruby thought we'd brought him for her. They've been pals ever since. Sketch even gets along with him too. Pixel is less warm and can almost manage to be in the same room. But she's warming.
Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Peace be with all of you!! - The Sievers
Cycling Addendum: I am happy to have successfully completed the Tour de Kota at least once now. I was quite pleased that Nick joined me on the MS150 this year too. I hope that he and I can enjoy a few more bike rides together, even if they're just to town (Vermillion, Beresford, Wakonda, Volin, Spink, wherever) for lunch occasionally. Or even just for a ride around the neighborhood.
I've received permission to buy a Mountain bike for Christmas. By Permission I mean that Nick and his folks all bought gift cards to Spoke-N-Sport so that I can buy a bike. So, I look forward to a Bunyan's to Bob's ride sometime. We shall see what 2009 brings.
Blogging has been really fun and I've enjoyed the 'family' that cycling has provided. I've met people in Vermillion that I may not have otherwise and thanks to blogging I've extended friendships into a greater area.
May health, happy trails, personal records, the best brew or that perfect piece of pie find all of you this coming year. :D
Thursday, December 11, 2008
The Collabradors at University Road and 311th.
Anyone who rides University Road may or may not have met the border collie and the black lab that likes to hang out in the ditch by the road.
They're not mean, they just aren't afraid of anything that goes slower than 55 mph. This past spring they had babies. The last time that I counted, I believe that there were two dogs and maybe 5 black and white collabrador puppies. However, they're not puppies anymore. And they've all been seen hanging out at the end of the driveway. I don't know if the offspring have the desire to heard slow moving vehicles or not.
I just figure that if they're all still there next Spring and Summer, I'll be detouring they're place via Greenfield Road and 312.
I'll try to post pictures some time. THey're kind of cute.
They're not mean, they just aren't afraid of anything that goes slower than 55 mph. This past spring they had babies. The last time that I counted, I believe that there were two dogs and maybe 5 black and white collabrador puppies. However, they're not puppies anymore. And they've all been seen hanging out at the end of the driveway. I don't know if the offspring have the desire to heard slow moving vehicles or not.
I just figure that if they're all still there next Spring and Summer, I'll be detouring they're place via Greenfield Road and 312.
I'll try to post pictures some time. THey're kind of cute.
Dear Santa?
There is a pair of sandals that I've had my eye on for cycling. Performance Bike has them on sale already. PLUS another 15% off which makes them $89 instead of $114. Which sort of doesn't seem as huge of a deal when a person thinks about it. I think that it's the drop below $100 that make them seem ideal. PLUS members get double points right now.
BUT, Christmas is coming up and I can't buy myself anything. Blah. I won't specifically ask Santa for them because I don't know if they're any better or more thoughtful than what he's come up on his own. I don't *really* like asking for specific gifts. I will offer general ideas, but I do enjoy seeing what someone else decides for themselves. That's what I like to do for other people too.
Dear Santa: If you do happen to read this post. And I'm not going to point you to it. You don't really have to get me these shoes. I'm just providing this as a talking point. I would acquire them on my own, if I hadn't grounded myself. Or if they'd be on sale like this at any other time of the year. Besides, they aren't available until February now. Shoot. Who am I kidding. I'm totally going to buy them this spring. I hope they're comfy and don't create blisters.
From Missy
BUT, Christmas is coming up and I can't buy myself anything. Blah. I won't specifically ask Santa for them because I don't know if they're any better or more thoughtful than what he's come up on his own. I don't *really* like asking for specific gifts. I will offer general ideas, but I do enjoy seeing what someone else decides for themselves. That's what I like to do for other people too.
Dear Santa: If you do happen to read this post. And I'm not going to point you to it. You don't really have to get me these shoes. I'm just providing this as a talking point. I would acquire them on my own, if I hadn't grounded myself. Or if they'd be on sale like this at any other time of the year. Besides, they aren't available until February now. Shoot. Who am I kidding. I'm totally going to buy them this spring. I hope they're comfy and don't create blisters.
From Missy
Saturday, November 29, 2008
November 29: On this Day...
One year ago... Nick and I were heading to Kauai for our honeymoon. We left snow behind and soaked up some Hawaiian hospitality. Can we go back yet?
Two years ago... Nick asked me to marry him at Carey's, the place where we met up for our first date.
Fifty-five years ago... my dad was born. He would've gotten a kick out my cycling, buddies, and other hobbies that I've since picked up. He's been gone since April, 2001.
Thanksgiving and Jingle Bell 5k with Photos
We had a nice day with hubby's family. Nothing too spectacular to report, but that's only because we always have a good time with them.
My sister-in-law's boyfriend likes a little whipped cream with his pie. He spent sometime applying a protective shell around the dessert.
Thanksgiving at the in-laws typically involves firearms and target practice at some point. :D Last year we shot pop cans off of the fence post. This year we shot clay pigeons. I'd never done that before and had fun. I'm not very good, I only hit three pigeons out of numerous attempts, but would like to try it more often. We may look for a shotgun for me. :D
I did scan the Black Friday ads and didn't see anything worth getting up at 3 a.m. for. I did head to Sioux Falls at 8 a.m. By 9, the town was still hopping at parking lots were full. With patience it wasn't impossible to get a parking spot. Within 4 minutes (I timed it) I had a spot at the mall. Lines moved quickly, I got the boots that I wanted for myself and my giving tree gift.
I don't really like shopping, though I do enjoy finding stuff for people for Christmas. Getting everything yesterday would've been exhausting. This way I can stretch it out. It was a good day to scan for ideas. My brother and his girlfriend were in Sioux Falls so we explored downtown a bit. They were nice enough to hang out with me while I had lunch at Sushi Masa. Yum. I haven't been there for awhile, I need to go there more often.
I had registered myself for the Jingle Bell 5 k. In preparation I wanted to make a couple of festive hats. One to wear while I ran and one for fun.
The Christmas Tree hat was meant to have lights on it. Like actually functioning lights. I bought a set of apparal lights at Hobby Lobby, but wasn't confident in their brightness and didn't have luck switching batteries. So, rather than cutting into the hat, I went on without them.
There was a good turn out for the 5 k run. But, not as many as I thought there might be.
I just didn't want to be last. The race began and everyone went faster than I typically do. I generally plod up and down the driveway at an easy pace and never have much to light a fire under my butt. I went with the group but even at a slightly quicker pace, I fell behind. Though for much of the run I was really only a half block behind the slower group.
Still, I felt self conscious. There weren't many people running, but there were ALOT of people along the street watching. A lot of people said that they liked my hat. I was laughing at myself earlier, I knew that I'd be running slowly... I may as well have a big "LOOK AT MEEEEEE!!!" hat on my head too. :-)
The route started at 14th street and went down Phillips, through the park and back. By the time I got to the last side street before the final approach into the park, there were runners coming back. Falls Park was gorgeous and actually fun to run through. There were many volunteers watching the racers.
Coming back out of Falls Park it's slighly up hill. I made it up the hill and considered my options: continue running or walk just a little bit. I was afraid to walk at all because sometimes that's the death knell. But, I still had a mile to go and didn't want to walk all of that. I'd seen some of the faster runners walking on their way out of the park too, one guy with a side stitch. A few of the 'slower' group ahead of me were taking a walk break also. I thought if there was a time to walk, it'd be now while nobody was around to watch. :D I only walked maybe the distance between two light posts and then I continued on.
Another lady was walking, I passed her. She was fiddling with her ipod. When she started running again, she passed me. However, it wasn't long and she was walking again. I passed her. There were more people around and I felt like I was going at a really good (for me) pace. I felt like I was trying (emphasis on trying) to hold Cycling Cathy off at a time trial. :D
A cousin of my dad's and her husband happened to be at the parade and yelled for me. I kept going. I saw 7th street go by and I'm like, "Ooof, 7 more blocks?" A few people crossed the street completely oblivious to me running along. That was very annoying. I had to go around them. A person doesn't think about that, but when you're tired any little deviance takes a little bit more energy. Nick pointed out that I had training for that though, my dogs are always nearly tripping me up. :D
As I approached the finish line I felt like I'd run a good race for me. Though I've felt like I've had a good run before and not gained any time. The walker lady had been a half block behind me and as I was getting to the line I saw her along my side and I'm like, "Crud!!!" So I picked it up and I think that I got to the line JUST before her. It doesn't truly matter, if I'd been just behind her and officially DFL... I was still with SOMEONE else.
I looked at the clock and it said 32:15, my watch said 32:08. I say to myself, "Holy Sh**, that's 4 minutes faster!!!" My mom didn't expect to see me so early, I had said that it'd take 36 minutes. I had hoped that I'd be a bit faster with a crowd. She says, "YOU SHAVED 4 MINUTES!!!" I say, "I know! I feel like it too!" Then I continued to cough up a lung for the rest of the night. :D
The parade was really nice and a great start to the season.
My sister-in-law's boyfriend likes a little whipped cream with his pie. He spent sometime applying a protective shell around the dessert.
Thanksgiving at the in-laws typically involves firearms and target practice at some point. :D Last year we shot pop cans off of the fence post. This year we shot clay pigeons. I'd never done that before and had fun. I'm not very good, I only hit three pigeons out of numerous attempts, but would like to try it more often. We may look for a shotgun for me. :D
I did scan the Black Friday ads and didn't see anything worth getting up at 3 a.m. for. I did head to Sioux Falls at 8 a.m. By 9, the town was still hopping at parking lots were full. With patience it wasn't impossible to get a parking spot. Within 4 minutes (I timed it) I had a spot at the mall. Lines moved quickly, I got the boots that I wanted for myself and my giving tree gift.
I don't really like shopping, though I do enjoy finding stuff for people for Christmas. Getting everything yesterday would've been exhausting. This way I can stretch it out. It was a good day to scan for ideas. My brother and his girlfriend were in Sioux Falls so we explored downtown a bit. They were nice enough to hang out with me while I had lunch at Sushi Masa. Yum. I haven't been there for awhile, I need to go there more often.
I had registered myself for the Jingle Bell 5 k. In preparation I wanted to make a couple of festive hats. One to wear while I ran and one for fun.
The Christmas Tree hat was meant to have lights on it. Like actually functioning lights. I bought a set of apparal lights at Hobby Lobby, but wasn't confident in their brightness and didn't have luck switching batteries. So, rather than cutting into the hat, I went on without them.
There was a good turn out for the 5 k run. But, not as many as I thought there might be.
I just didn't want to be last. The race began and everyone went faster than I typically do. I generally plod up and down the driveway at an easy pace and never have much to light a fire under my butt. I went with the group but even at a slightly quicker pace, I fell behind. Though for much of the run I was really only a half block behind the slower group.
Still, I felt self conscious. There weren't many people running, but there were ALOT of people along the street watching. A lot of people said that they liked my hat. I was laughing at myself earlier, I knew that I'd be running slowly... I may as well have a big "LOOK AT MEEEEEE!!!" hat on my head too. :-)
The route started at 14th street and went down Phillips, through the park and back. By the time I got to the last side street before the final approach into the park, there were runners coming back. Falls Park was gorgeous and actually fun to run through. There were many volunteers watching the racers.
Coming back out of Falls Park it's slighly up hill. I made it up the hill and considered my options: continue running or walk just a little bit. I was afraid to walk at all because sometimes that's the death knell. But, I still had a mile to go and didn't want to walk all of that. I'd seen some of the faster runners walking on their way out of the park too, one guy with a side stitch. A few of the 'slower' group ahead of me were taking a walk break also. I thought if there was a time to walk, it'd be now while nobody was around to watch. :D I only walked maybe the distance between two light posts and then I continued on.
Another lady was walking, I passed her. She was fiddling with her ipod. When she started running again, she passed me. However, it wasn't long and she was walking again. I passed her. There were more people around and I felt like I was going at a really good (for me) pace. I felt like I was trying (emphasis on trying) to hold Cycling Cathy off at a time trial. :D
A cousin of my dad's and her husband happened to be at the parade and yelled for me. I kept going. I saw 7th street go by and I'm like, "Ooof, 7 more blocks?" A few people crossed the street completely oblivious to me running along. That was very annoying. I had to go around them. A person doesn't think about that, but when you're tired any little deviance takes a little bit more energy. Nick pointed out that I had training for that though, my dogs are always nearly tripping me up. :D
As I approached the finish line I felt like I'd run a good race for me. Though I've felt like I've had a good run before and not gained any time. The walker lady had been a half block behind me and as I was getting to the line I saw her along my side and I'm like, "Crud!!!" So I picked it up and I think that I got to the line JUST before her. It doesn't truly matter, if I'd been just behind her and officially DFL... I was still with SOMEONE else.
I looked at the clock and it said 32:15, my watch said 32:08. I say to myself, "Holy Sh**, that's 4 minutes faster!!!" My mom didn't expect to see me so early, I had said that it'd take 36 minutes. I had hoped that I'd be a bit faster with a crowd. She says, "YOU SHAVED 4 MINUTES!!!" I say, "I know! I feel like it too!" Then I continued to cough up a lung for the rest of the night. :D
The parade was really nice and a great start to the season.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Checking in
Alright, Cycling Cathy's post reminded me that I really do mean to use this blog as a sort of report on my working out. Not that it matters too much, but it's nice to feel as though you're accountable in some way for activity.
A few co-workers and I formed a team to count the number of steps we take in a day through the healthysd website. I think we'll get pedometers from the state. I have one at home, but was never able to get it calibrated correctly.
I don't really enjoy this lack of daylight. The morning seems like it would be an ideal time for me to get outside for my run, but it is very difficult for me to get out of bed. It's warm there and the house is full of sleepy pets and a couple of sleepy people. Even when I go to bed early, it's still tough to get up. I suppose that's where I should just decide to drive to Vermillion and work out in the a.m.
However, when I don't have a rigid work schedule, I prefer to go and run over the noon hour. OR walk, or whatever.
Last Friday I didn't make it home in time to run before the sun was gone. So, I did two miles up and down the driveway with flashlight in hand. Saturday, I was at the cheer and dance competition for work in Yankton. I enjoyed watching the routines more than I enjoy watching football. My feet were still very tired after standing on cement all day.
On Sunday we cleaned house and family came over. I shot some photos for my brother and his girlfriend, mom and grandma stopped down and we all had dinner at Texas Roadhouse in Vermillion. Yum. It was really nice to hang out with family at home.
Last night I was home by 4, so I was able to run and see a really pretty sunset. I got 3.1 miles in. I felt really good and thought that I was going at a good pace, maybe faster than normal. I must've slacked a bit at other times during the run. I was a minute slower than normal. Still, it was a perfect evening. Once I started, I was at a comfortable temperature and there wasn't much of a wind to speak of.
I have been getting some miles in on the trainer. My attention span is generally only good for 30-45 minutes. IT's better than nothing and right now it's just to fill space between runs or when I don't feel like running. I also bought a yoga DVD and get around to doing that in the morning once or twice a week.
There still are a number of gaps in my 'training log', but I'm doing my best to not be a coach potato.
I'm tentatively planning to run the jingle bell 5k, a run prior to the parade of lights in Sioux Falls on the 28th. Is anyone else going to either event (5k and/or parade of lights?)
Happy Tuesday!!!
A few co-workers and I formed a team to count the number of steps we take in a day through the healthysd website. I think we'll get pedometers from the state. I have one at home, but was never able to get it calibrated correctly.
I don't really enjoy this lack of daylight. The morning seems like it would be an ideal time for me to get outside for my run, but it is very difficult for me to get out of bed. It's warm there and the house is full of sleepy pets and a couple of sleepy people. Even when I go to bed early, it's still tough to get up. I suppose that's where I should just decide to drive to Vermillion and work out in the a.m.
However, when I don't have a rigid work schedule, I prefer to go and run over the noon hour. OR walk, or whatever.
Last Friday I didn't make it home in time to run before the sun was gone. So, I did two miles up and down the driveway with flashlight in hand. Saturday, I was at the cheer and dance competition for work in Yankton. I enjoyed watching the routines more than I enjoy watching football. My feet were still very tired after standing on cement all day.
On Sunday we cleaned house and family came over. I shot some photos for my brother and his girlfriend, mom and grandma stopped down and we all had dinner at Texas Roadhouse in Vermillion. Yum. It was really nice to hang out with family at home.
Last night I was home by 4, so I was able to run and see a really pretty sunset. I got 3.1 miles in. I felt really good and thought that I was going at a good pace, maybe faster than normal. I must've slacked a bit at other times during the run. I was a minute slower than normal. Still, it was a perfect evening. Once I started, I was at a comfortable temperature and there wasn't much of a wind to speak of.
I have been getting some miles in on the trainer. My attention span is generally only good for 30-45 minutes. IT's better than nothing and right now it's just to fill space between runs or when I don't feel like running. I also bought a yoga DVD and get around to doing that in the morning once or twice a week.
There still are a number of gaps in my 'training log', but I'm doing my best to not be a coach potato.
I'm tentatively planning to run the jingle bell 5k, a run prior to the parade of lights in Sioux Falls on the 28th. Is anyone else going to either event (5k and/or parade of lights?)
Happy Tuesday!!!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Photo Experiments
This photo didn't turn out as good as I'd hoped, but it's not as bad as I feared. The dog sort of looks like a dog, though I lost track of where I began. While I did crop the image, the dog should've been farther away from me so that the bone wouldn't be right above his head. Ah well. It's art, right? I tried to do some lighting of the ground and trees behind me, but need to adjust my camera settings a bit differently. Who knows when I will try this again. It's getting cold at night.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Always Wear Your Helmet. :-)
Don't judge this yet. This is a test for something that I'm working on. I will certainly be posting the results here, eventually. It's going to be cool. I think. :D It may take a bit of time for me to use up the roll of film though. :-( (I may have something to post next week)
Monday, October 20, 2008
Art and Dining in Beresford. Plus a workout report.
We had a pretty decent weekend. I worked on some things around the house on Saturday. That night Nick and I went into the big cities of Beresford and Alcester.
The Nuance Gallery had a reception for Vermillion artist, Charles Weidemann. I'd not been to the gallery yet so I asked Nick to go with me. I didn't really know many people at the show. My high school art teacher was there, so it was nice to catch up with her.
Mr. Weidemann is a 76 year old painter and works in the realm of realism. Painters boggle my mind. I mean, sure, I can *paint*. But, I can't PAINT. Certainly not realistically. I can make an accurate depiction of something by drawing it, but not really *that* well either.
The artist seems like a neat guy. I hope that when I'm 76 I'm still making art, even if it's just to make myself happy. I am happy for people who can continue to do what they enjoy all through their life. I hope that for everyone.
It was nice to indulge my inner artist. Beresford has such a talented pool of people that have landed in the area. The owner of Nuance is a Beresford local and is a talented painter. She has a son who was a high school classmate of mine. I know that at least two of her children are talented artists themselves. Two other Beresford artists have work in the gallery too. One does woodwork, turning bowls out of logs and other raw materials. The other creates art from eggs.
Really, check it out.
There are other pieces from the area too.
Afterward we headed to Alcester for dinner at the Steakhouse. They have such good food. The place was packed. Nick's steak was a bit more rare than he'd asked for. Unfortunately he didn't enjoy his meal as much as usual, but that was a rare exception rather than the rule. My chicken alfredo was awesome. The last time I was there I had the parmesean and herb tilapia. Yummy.
Alcester is a smaller town than Beresford. They don't really have that much for business in town. There are only two restaurants in town, a cafe and the Steakhouse. Beresford isn't large either, but they have essentially three art galleries (at least two aren't open that often either) and limited places to eat. You can find lunch in town, but there isn't anywhere to really have dinner. Am I totally wrong? The only sit down place is Emily's. I haven't been there for awhile but the other half hasn't been giving it rave reviews. I should disclose that I don't know when the last time that he ate there was either.
Regarding small town life: Yesterday we were also wishing that the local bakery wasn't such a thing of the past either. I haven't been to the one in Centerville, but I wish those weren't as rare as they are.
Regarding excercising: I haven't been as diligent as I'd like. I haven't been on my bike since the Margarita ride. I've been making attempts at running. I get out at least once a week, typically. Most of the time I've only squeaked out two mile runs in the last month or two. I started getting kind of frustrated and felt like I was falling off of the wagon.
Last Thursday I ran three miles. Saturday I walked three. Yesterday I ran four!! Yay! I don't know when the last time that I ran four was, probably last winter. I felt pretty good. I was going pretty slow, but felt like I could've kept going for awhile. However, my knees started aching a little around mile 3 to 3.25. So, I finished four and called it good. Woo!
I've gotta get my roadbike in on the trainer.
The Nuance Gallery had a reception for Vermillion artist, Charles Weidemann. I'd not been to the gallery yet so I asked Nick to go with me. I didn't really know many people at the show. My high school art teacher was there, so it was nice to catch up with her.
Mr. Weidemann is a 76 year old painter and works in the realm of realism. Painters boggle my mind. I mean, sure, I can *paint*. But, I can't PAINT. Certainly not realistically. I can make an accurate depiction of something by drawing it, but not really *that* well either.
The artist seems like a neat guy. I hope that when I'm 76 I'm still making art, even if it's just to make myself happy. I am happy for people who can continue to do what they enjoy all through their life. I hope that for everyone.
It was nice to indulge my inner artist. Beresford has such a talented pool of people that have landed in the area. The owner of Nuance is a Beresford local and is a talented painter. She has a son who was a high school classmate of mine. I know that at least two of her children are talented artists themselves. Two other Beresford artists have work in the gallery too. One does woodwork, turning bowls out of logs and other raw materials. The other creates art from eggs.
Really, check it out.
There are other pieces from the area too.
Afterward we headed to Alcester for dinner at the Steakhouse. They have such good food. The place was packed. Nick's steak was a bit more rare than he'd asked for. Unfortunately he didn't enjoy his meal as much as usual, but that was a rare exception rather than the rule. My chicken alfredo was awesome. The last time I was there I had the parmesean and herb tilapia. Yummy.
Alcester is a smaller town than Beresford. They don't really have that much for business in town. There are only two restaurants in town, a cafe and the Steakhouse. Beresford isn't large either, but they have essentially three art galleries (at least two aren't open that often either) and limited places to eat. You can find lunch in town, but there isn't anywhere to really have dinner. Am I totally wrong? The only sit down place is Emily's. I haven't been there for awhile but the other half hasn't been giving it rave reviews. I should disclose that I don't know when the last time that he ate there was either.
Regarding small town life: Yesterday we were also wishing that the local bakery wasn't such a thing of the past either. I haven't been to the one in Centerville, but I wish those weren't as rare as they are.
Regarding excercising: I haven't been as diligent as I'd like. I haven't been on my bike since the Margarita ride. I've been making attempts at running. I get out at least once a week, typically. Most of the time I've only squeaked out two mile runs in the last month or two. I started getting kind of frustrated and felt like I was falling off of the wagon.
Last Thursday I ran three miles. Saturday I walked three. Yesterday I ran four!! Yay! I don't know when the last time that I ran four was, probably last winter. I felt pretty good. I was going pretty slow, but felt like I could've kept going for awhile. However, my knees started aching a little around mile 3 to 3.25. So, I finished four and called it good. Woo!
I've gotta get my roadbike in on the trainer.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
New Photos on Sieversma Photos Blog
Hey, I shot a friend's wedding last weekend. I was honored that she asked me to photograph such a wonderful day. The weather was perfect, everyone was glowing and busting at the seams with happiness.
The bride and I were roommates our freshman year of college. We remained friends and she's one of the few people from college that I'm able to stay in regular contact with. I had a lot of fun with them and all of their friends.
I managed to tweak and upload the black and white photos. There's a slideshow of my favorites on my other blog page.
You can click the link to view all photos too. I didn't put them all in the slideshow, it takes too long to load.
I'm pretty happy with how they turned out, if it's okay to say so.
Keep checking, hopefully it won't be long before I can get a selection of the color photos uploaded. It probably won't be this weekend though.
Thanks for looking!!!
The bride and I were roommates our freshman year of college. We remained friends and she's one of the few people from college that I'm able to stay in regular contact with. I had a lot of fun with them and all of their friends.
I managed to tweak and upload the black and white photos. There's a slideshow of my favorites on my other blog page.
You can click the link to view all photos too. I didn't put them all in the slideshow, it takes too long to load.
I'm pretty happy with how they turned out, if it's okay to say so.
Keep checking, hopefully it won't be long before I can get a selection of the color photos uploaded. It probably won't be this weekend though.
Thanks for looking!!!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
They're Home!!!!!!!!
In the last three days we've distributed 50 photos looking for our pups. 30 minutes ago two neighbor kids knocked on our door saying they knew where our dogs were. We were fairly skeptical. Another lady called to say that her dad had seen them this morning. We checked out our initial lead and went to a farm place two miles north. We hoped itd be them. We got on the yard and saw a dog that looked like Ruby. I got out of the car and called to her. She about came out of her skin. Ruby and Max stayed together for nearly four days. I am impressed. They look pretty thin, but I think that they'll be good to go.
We didn't think we'd find them!! Thank God for huge favors. In all of this I've met some fantastic neighbors. There are good people around here.
Thank you guys for your thoughts and prayers.
The dogs are so grounded now. :-D
We didn't think we'd find them!! Thank God for huge favors. In all of this I've met some fantastic neighbors. There are good people around here.
Thank you guys for your thoughts and prayers.
The dogs are so grounded now. :-D
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
If there is a silver lining....
In our search for our dogs we've met some of our neighbors and everyone's really nice and seem to be dog people themselves. Several have offered suggestions of places to check and where their dogs often wander to.
Though we are kicking ourselves for not making sure that we keep collars on our dogs. So, let this be my public service announcement to you: You think that your dog(s) will stay home because they're such homebodies and don't go very far. You worry that if they do run, they'd get hung up on something with the collar. Nope. Get collars. Dogs are dumb. They do dumb things. I wish we would've done that small thing to potentially help them find their way home.
Though we are kicking ourselves for not making sure that we keep collars on our dogs. So, let this be my public service announcement to you: You think that your dog(s) will stay home because they're such homebodies and don't go very far. You worry that if they do run, they'd get hung up on something with the collar. Nope. Get collars. Dogs are dumb. They do dumb things. I wish we would've done that small thing to potentially help them find their way home.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Wait Wait Don't Tell Me
I didn't have a chance to blog about attending the recording (Thursday night) of Wait Wait Don't Tell Me, a news quiz show on NPR. If you've heard the show, I'm sure that you're a fan.
If you haven't heard the show, you should check it out and see what you think. It aired on SDPB Saturday at noon. You can still go online to hear it.
When Carl Kasell introduced the show Thursday night he accidentally said "Sioux City, SD". Everybody laughed and scolded him. He fixed the error by doing a retake. But I've just noticed that the error occured in the show rundown online too. Amatures. :-)
I haven't had a chance to download the podcast of it yet. They spend about an hour and a half recording the show. The segment with Senator George McGovern went a bit long. So, I'm curious to listen to how it was edited down. Peter Sagal pointed out that when George McGovern ran for office he didn't speak much about his time as a war veteran/hero. He didn't want to appear too boastful about that part of his life. And now, it seems as though in the context of the current presidential campaign, times have changed.
I got a couple of pics with Carl Kasell and Mo Rocca. I will post them another time. I wanted to chat with Peter Sagal, but the line was long and I saw the cast checking their watches a time or two. I didn't want to wait to be shoo-ed off, so we left.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Our Dogs are MIA
Ruby and Max went outside this morning to play, which is normal for them. We generally have to kick them out of the house in fairly short order so that they don't level the house as they play. That was around eight a.m. or so. By 9:30a.m. when Nick went out to check on the other animals, the pups weren't around. It's not unusual for Ruby to go off on an adventure a little bit. There've been a couple of times when Max was whimpering outside because Ruby had abandoned him. We were glad that she was able to ditch him because he's too small to keep up just yet. Though she's generally good about letting him hang with her when they're clowing around the yard.
The problem is that they hadn't returned by the time we'd left for a grocery run to Vermillion. They weren't home when we got back and they haven't returned yet.
I've been yelling for them all day. Typically Ruby comes running when she hears me. Sometimes it takes 10 minutes for her to come screaming out of the field, but not today. I think she's with Max and doesn't want to leave him behind. They shouldn't have gotten out of earshot, he gets tired and lazy after running/walking two thirds of a mile with me.
It may be slightly possible that they were snatched. I'd like to think it unlikely. I've never seen Ruby anywhere near the road, except if she's with me running. So, I don't know.
Who knows what stupid games they got up to. Silly dogs.
Now, Sketch (cat) can be gone for a full day or more and I don't blink if I haven't seen him. Sometimes I think in my head, "Gee, I hope that he comes back this time.It just seems different with the pups.
I've called around a little and put the word out with the immediate neighbors.
On the off chance that you were in the area and have seen the puppies pictured above email mhamersma79@yahoo.com. They would've been up in the area of 306th (Volin road) and Greenfield Road. Their names are Ruby Sue (the yellow lab) and Max (German Shepherd puppy). They don't currently have collars on.
Though we left them home alone Friday afternoon, Friday night and most all of Saturday. I imagine that they are generally concerned about our return then too.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Search for a Mountain Bike
I've been watching Craigslist for a mountain bike. I haven't *really* test ridden any yet. When I stopped by the bike shop in Brookings during the TDK a gal there suggested that I look at a 17ish frame. I'm pretty sure that my hybrid is about 19 inches and it's big for what I'd look for in a mountain bike.
Biking Brady's blog reminded me that I need to be vigilent about watching out at rummage sales.
I will extend my search and include the reading public. If you happen to know of someone selling a mountain bike and happen to think of it, would you toss me a note? I can't and shouldn't invest much money into it, I really doubt that I'll ride it THAT much. Well, probably not as often as my road bike. So, I figure that I'll keep my eyes open and the right ride will find me. :) Hopefully when I find it, the funding will be there too. :D I'm saving my quarters. Eventually the scales will balance out, or I'll lose interest.
I'm not too particular regarding brand Giant, Trek, Bianchi or whatever. Though, I am watching for a front suspension and *maybe* disc brakes. I just want to bike minimum maintanance roads, gravel trails, perhaps horse trails at state parks/beginner mountain bike trails.
Biking Brady's blog reminded me that I need to be vigilent about watching out at rummage sales.
I will extend my search and include the reading public. If you happen to know of someone selling a mountain bike and happen to think of it, would you toss me a note? I can't and shouldn't invest much money into it, I really doubt that I'll ride it THAT much. Well, probably not as often as my road bike. So, I figure that I'll keep my eyes open and the right ride will find me. :) Hopefully when I find it, the funding will be there too. :D I'm saving my quarters. Eventually the scales will balance out, or I'll lose interest.
I'm not too particular regarding brand Giant, Trek, Bianchi or whatever. Though, I am watching for a front suspension and *maybe* disc brakes. I just want to bike minimum maintanance roads, gravel trails, perhaps horse trails at state parks/beginner mountain bike trails.
Grandpa update
He's doing much better. We're very glad that he perked up. My aunt from North Carolina was in town for the weekend, so it's nice that they had a calm weekend to hang out. The family went out with Grandpa for dinner at The Keg in Sioux Falls. Good chicken!! Plus, he was feeling up for a trip to Alcester on Sunday for church. Everyone at the home congregation were glad to see him and the family.
We stopped out of town so that grandpa could check out Nick bailing hay near Alcester. And the weekend was capped off with a lunch at Truck Town in Beresford before the rest of my family headed back to Sioux Falls.
Thanks for your well wishes!! I guess that my grandpa had a reaction to some of his medicine. It seems to be fixed now.
We stopped out of town so that grandpa could check out Nick bailing hay near Alcester. And the weekend was capped off with a lunch at Truck Town in Beresford before the rest of my family headed back to Sioux Falls.
Thanks for your well wishes!! I guess that my grandpa had a reaction to some of his medicine. It seems to be fixed now.
Cyclocross Video on Bicycling.com
Maybe this technique would help with crossing railroad tracks. It's crazy how fluid these guys are. I would fall over anyway, most likely.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Photography Blog
I have begun a second blogging page on which I will feature samples of my photographic work. I'll aim less for snapshots, but to display wedding photos and other artistic or photojournalistic ventures.
I will still post pictures on this blog too, of course. :D
I will still post pictures on this blog too, of course. :D
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Dakota Life tonight
If you want to watch a segment about a different sort of bike...
Tonight's Dakota Life has a segment that I produced about Sabers Specialties in Mitchell, SD. They've done the raffle bike for the Sturgis Rally the last two years.
I didn't voice this one, I was sick when I started editing. Plus, I thought a masculine voice might be better this time.
There's also a segment about a quilter and Tyndell register of deeds Elton Rokusek on his book "The Unknown Star," about overcoming a facial deformity.
It should be a good show.
Tonight's Dakota Life has a segment that I produced about Sabers Specialties in Mitchell, SD. They've done the raffle bike for the Sturgis Rally the last two years.
I didn't voice this one, I was sick when I started editing. Plus, I thought a masculine voice might be better this time.
There's also a segment about a quilter and Tyndell register of deeds Elton Rokusek on his book "The Unknown Star," about overcoming a facial deformity.
It should be a good show.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Fun at the PArk
Hubby and I went to church Sunday morning and had a yummy lunch afterward at Mr. Smith's bakery. If you haven't checked the place out while you've been in Vermillion, they have excellent sandwhiches and are located in the Jones grocery store.
We wanted to do something fun Sunday afternoon, so we loaded the pups up and headed over to Union Grove park. Ruby generally thinks that we're taking her somewhere that hates puppies, and is usually in a state of panic by the time that we get to the mailbox. I think that having Max along helped. Ruby seemed a little nervous, but did really well.
I wanted to go and walk along the horse trail to see how that is, especially if I ever acquire a mountain bike. But, there were horses and other dogs so we turned around and went elsewhere. We walked a few of the trails, maybe two miles or so. Maybe less? The dogs had their nose to the ground the whole time and were pretty well behaved.
The people and pups were all a little tired, so we didn't stay out too long. We wanted to get nap time in too. The dogs were asleep in the car before we hit the highway and were piles of mush at home.
We wanted to do something fun Sunday afternoon, so we loaded the pups up and headed over to Union Grove park. Ruby generally thinks that we're taking her somewhere that hates puppies, and is usually in a state of panic by the time that we get to the mailbox. I think that having Max along helped. Ruby seemed a little nervous, but did really well.
I wanted to go and walk along the horse trail to see how that is, especially if I ever acquire a mountain bike. But, there were horses and other dogs so we turned around and went elsewhere. We walked a few of the trails, maybe two miles or so. Maybe less? The dogs had their nose to the ground the whole time and were pretty well behaved.
The people and pups were all a little tired, so we didn't stay out too long. We wanted to get nap time in too. The dogs were asleep in the car before we hit the highway and were piles of mush at home.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Pics from Margarita Ride
I was running late on Saturday morning. I meant to be at Pro's by 7:30 a.m., but hit the snooze a couple of times and was tardy anyway. Then I stopped to check on Chad, he hit a deer with his truck. When I got to the start line, Kevin was talking to everyone right before the ride started. I hurried to unload my bike and pump up the tires.
I looked for my sunglasses and couldn't find them. Until I realized that they were on top of my head. Rats. I walked my bike up to the building, but forgot my helmet. Ran back to truck. Then poked my head in to tell KEvin that I'd write him a check when I got back. I'd seen Tez and company in the parking lot. They said that they were riding the 30. I decided that I'd try to catch Mary Jean, Bonnie and Sandy or Cathy or whomever. I was only starting 5 or 10 minutes late.
What a difference 5 or 10 minutes make. I was doing my best to hammer down the road. Though for me that's 16/17 mph. I did the fastest that I thought I could hold for awhile. I passed a number of people, but never saw the mob.
I did catch up to Cathy and Cindy, though I think that they stopped and chatted for awhile at the parting rest stop. They said that the others were just up ahead. I left the rest stop with them... But, lost them on the first hill. I wasn't far behind, but my sunglasses fell out of my camelback.
I caught up with Sandy at the turn north to Wakonda and chatted with her for a mile or so and then went on to meet the rest of the crew in town. That's where everyone regrouped.
Everything else went along as normal.
I will ditto everyone else. It was great to chat with everyone, other bloggers and riders.
When I got to the store to dump stuff at the recycling bin, I noticed my rear tire was lacking shape and air. So, I didn't escape a flat either. I picked a little pink pebble out of the rubber.
I didn't take many photos on Saturday due to the weather and I didn't come across a lot of note worthy pics, except at the stop in Wakonda.
I looked for my sunglasses and couldn't find them. Until I realized that they were on top of my head. Rats. I walked my bike up to the building, but forgot my helmet. Ran back to truck. Then poked my head in to tell KEvin that I'd write him a check when I got back. I'd seen Tez and company in the parking lot. They said that they were riding the 30. I decided that I'd try to catch Mary Jean, Bonnie and Sandy or Cathy or whomever. I was only starting 5 or 10 minutes late.
What a difference 5 or 10 minutes make. I was doing my best to hammer down the road. Though for me that's 16/17 mph. I did the fastest that I thought I could hold for awhile. I passed a number of people, but never saw the mob.
I did catch up to Cathy and Cindy, though I think that they stopped and chatted for awhile at the parting rest stop. They said that the others were just up ahead. I left the rest stop with them... But, lost them on the first hill. I wasn't far behind, but my sunglasses fell out of my camelback.
I caught up with Sandy at the turn north to Wakonda and chatted with her for a mile or so and then went on to meet the rest of the crew in town. That's where everyone regrouped.
Everything else went along as normal.
I will ditto everyone else. It was great to chat with everyone, other bloggers and riders.
When I got to the store to dump stuff at the recycling bin, I noticed my rear tire was lacking shape and air. So, I didn't escape a flat either. I picked a little pink pebble out of the rubber.
I didn't take many photos on Saturday due to the weather and I didn't come across a lot of note worthy pics, except at the stop in Wakonda.
Please keep my grandpa in your thoughts...
Edited 9-15-08 6:30 p.m. to say:
I called the VA and the nurse there said that my grandpa is feeling a bit better. I don't think fantastic, but better. He got up to go to the dining room and eat lunch, so I'm taking that as a good sign. So, we'll see. My mom went to visit him tonight. I haven't heard from her yet.
_____________________
Okay, I'm skipping the margarita ride and will post photos later.
I didn't attend the post post ride festivities because I was tired and just wanted to go home for a little bit. This worked out in my favor anyway.
My grandfather has been having some spells off and on since like February of this year. Unfortunately as people age, it seems like deteriorating health is a nasty side effect.
I got a call as I was laying down for a nap at 3:30 from my aunt in North Carolina. The Vets hospital had called saying that my grandpa was having chest pains and his blood pressure dropped into the 30s. They were wondering where family were, just in case. I call my grandpa, he asks if I and Nick were coming up. Nobody could get ahold of my brother. I contact Nick and then hop through the shower as I hadn't removed evidence of the ride earlier in the day yet.
I was able to get my brother, I met him in Beresford and we rode together to Sioux Falls. As we got closer my mom called and said that my grandpa was feeling better and was approaching normal again. My brother and I were walking into the VA at 4:40 p.m.
We were all able to hang out together. The blood tests indicate that there wasn't a heart attack. The doctor's thought he had a reaction to some medicine.
Yesterday I got a call from my uncle saying that my grandpa was having another spell, but didn't want everybody coming up since it tired him out. Ornery bugger. I'm sure that he doesn't want to feel like he's inconvienencing anyone either.
Today I call him and he sounds tired. And he says that it's not good. He's a little better than yesterday, but not great.
Now, we've had a number of scares. He tends to come back and feels better again. He's a feisty old guy. But, I also know that time isn't unlimited for a man of 87 years. He does have a sister who is 97 years and is still fairly mobile.
Watching loved ones age is difficult. But, I am thankful for every day that I have with them.
I called the VA and the nurse there said that my grandpa is feeling a bit better. I don't think fantastic, but better. He got up to go to the dining room and eat lunch, so I'm taking that as a good sign. So, we'll see. My mom went to visit him tonight. I haven't heard from her yet.
_____________________
Okay, I'm skipping the margarita ride and will post photos later.
I didn't attend the post post ride festivities because I was tired and just wanted to go home for a little bit. This worked out in my favor anyway.
My grandfather has been having some spells off and on since like February of this year. Unfortunately as people age, it seems like deteriorating health is a nasty side effect.
I got a call as I was laying down for a nap at 3:30 from my aunt in North Carolina. The Vets hospital had called saying that my grandpa was having chest pains and his blood pressure dropped into the 30s. They were wondering where family were, just in case. I call my grandpa, he asks if I and Nick were coming up. Nobody could get ahold of my brother. I contact Nick and then hop through the shower as I hadn't removed evidence of the ride earlier in the day yet.
I was able to get my brother, I met him in Beresford and we rode together to Sioux Falls. As we got closer my mom called and said that my grandpa was feeling better and was approaching normal again. My brother and I were walking into the VA at 4:40 p.m.
We were all able to hang out together. The blood tests indicate that there wasn't a heart attack. The doctor's thought he had a reaction to some medicine.
Yesterday I got a call from my uncle saying that my grandpa was having another spell, but didn't want everybody coming up since it tired him out. Ornery bugger. I'm sure that he doesn't want to feel like he's inconvienencing anyone either.
Today I call him and he sounds tired. And he says that it's not good. He's a little better than yesterday, but not great.
Now, we've had a number of scares. He tends to come back and feels better again. He's a feisty old guy. But, I also know that time isn't unlimited for a man of 87 years. He does have a sister who is 97 years and is still fairly mobile.
Watching loved ones age is difficult. But, I am thankful for every day that I have with them.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Before I Chat Cycling...
I was in Hot Springs to shoot a Dakota Life Segment about the Mammoth Dig Site. Yes, it is kinda large. (chuckles at poor pun)
That was really interesting. We also learned about the short faced bear that was also found in the hole. It was a sink hole at one time. So, the short faced bear came along and thought that he'd make a meal out of a poor mammoth stuck in the hole, but then he fell in too.
This bad boy could peer into your window, on the second floor.
The Dr. that we interviewed said that all 50+ mammoths, except maybe one, have been male. He explained that the females stay together and keep male young until they hit puberty. During that time the matriarch keeps them from getting into too much trouble. So then the bachelors all run in a pack because they don't have much hope for mating until they're maybe 35. Well, young males with hormones coursing through them sometimes find themselves in awkward situations, like reaching too far into a wet area to try to eat food... and then find themselves stuck.
There are a lot of bones left to find, so a person looks at the hole and thinks "mass crash into death". But, they say only one died there maybe once every ten years... The pack remembers and stears clear or moves on and then a new crowd comes into the neighborhood. It's still a somber vision though.
We also went to Wall to finish shooting for the Badlands Documentary. There's not much to note except that we were nearly finished when the HD Camera konked out on me. I still have to go back for a different project that I'm working on, so I'll pick up the last stuff for the producer then. It's going to be an awesome documentary, watch for it on SDPB in December. The Mammoth Dig site will air in OCtober.
This picture isn't from this shoot, but it's an images from a previous shoot for the documentary. I think that it's funny how accustomed the prarie dogs have gotten to people. Though some of them now have the plague.
OF course we had to have a donut at Wall DRug. Yummy.
We did see some deer when we were driving back from the South Unit of the Badlands.
I'd forgotten to bring my SLR along. :( My digital camera doesn't have a working zoom control, so I had to crop the above image. The deer were only maybe 20 yards away. They were fairly close to the road.
That was really interesting. We also learned about the short faced bear that was also found in the hole. It was a sink hole at one time. So, the short faced bear came along and thought that he'd make a meal out of a poor mammoth stuck in the hole, but then he fell in too.
This bad boy could peer into your window, on the second floor.
The Dr. that we interviewed said that all 50+ mammoths, except maybe one, have been male. He explained that the females stay together and keep male young until they hit puberty. During that time the matriarch keeps them from getting into too much trouble. So then the bachelors all run in a pack because they don't have much hope for mating until they're maybe 35. Well, young males with hormones coursing through them sometimes find themselves in awkward situations, like reaching too far into a wet area to try to eat food... and then find themselves stuck.
There are a lot of bones left to find, so a person looks at the hole and thinks "mass crash into death". But, they say only one died there maybe once every ten years... The pack remembers and stears clear or moves on and then a new crowd comes into the neighborhood. It's still a somber vision though.
We also went to Wall to finish shooting for the Badlands Documentary. There's not much to note except that we were nearly finished when the HD Camera konked out on me. I still have to go back for a different project that I'm working on, so I'll pick up the last stuff for the producer then. It's going to be an awesome documentary, watch for it on SDPB in December. The Mammoth Dig site will air in OCtober.
This picture isn't from this shoot, but it's an images from a previous shoot for the documentary. I think that it's funny how accustomed the prarie dogs have gotten to people. Though some of them now have the plague.
OF course we had to have a donut at Wall DRug. Yummy.
We did see some deer when we were driving back from the South Unit of the Badlands.
I'd forgotten to bring my SLR along. :( My digital camera doesn't have a working zoom control, so I had to crop the above image. The deer were only maybe 20 yards away. They were fairly close to the road.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Driving Across SD
Heading for Hot Springs tonight, Wall after our shoot tomorrow, spending day in the Badlands and doing a shoot Friday morning in Rapid.
Rina and I were discussing the olympics and the marathon. I don't remember what the specific times were, though the commentators called the women's pace pedesterian - which would still be faster than I'd hope to run any distance at.
Then I was reflecting on a radio segment I heard last week about the ultramarathon in the Black Hills.
Whicj leads me to ask: Which is crazier, biking 412 + miles in 48 hours (Gut Check) or running 100 in 24 hours.
Discuss amongst yourselves.
Rina and I were discussing the olympics and the marathon. I don't remember what the specific times were, though the commentators called the women's pace pedesterian - which would still be faster than I'd hope to run any distance at.
Then I was reflecting on a radio segment I heard last week about the ultramarathon in the Black Hills.
Whicj leads me to ask: Which is crazier, biking 412 + miles in 48 hours (Gut Check) or running 100 in 24 hours.
Discuss amongst yourselves.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Weekend
Friday night Nick and I had a date. It's his weekend to work and I go out to the hills on Tuesday, so it was nice to have a little time to hang out and have fun.
We headed to Vermillion to catch a movie, so we got there early enough to get some food before hand. I'd forgotten that it was Ribfest weekend, since I hadn't thought that we'd be taking it in. I'm not much of a rib fan, but like pulled pork sandwhiches. The stand that I got mine from had a sweet and spicy mustard sauce that was good.
Part of Poker Alice was playing at Carey's, so of course we had to stop by and listen to them for awhile. :D They'll always have a special place in our hearts. We met at Carey's for our first date, I knew that Poker Alice would be playing. And the full band played at our wedding.
Step Brothers was our flick of choice this weekend. It was crass, vulgar, had juvenile humor, and was dumb.... But, I was laughing out loud for much of the movie. No, I hadn't had much to drink before we went. There were times where it was a bit over the top and wasn't quite as funny as one would like, but that was the point. I still like Talledega Nights better, but this was fun.
Today I knew that I'd be working pledge at night, though I also needed to go into town in the morning for bell choir practice. I didn't want to drive both times, so I rode my bike in for bell choir. I didn't get on the road when I should've. I busted my tail to cover the 16 miles to town, though my average was only just shy of 14. Blah. My driveway and the hills brought me down a little, but I just never got into stellar cycling shape this year. I had a little head wind, but not much.
I was 10 minutes late for bell choir. As a result, I got the picked over role and only have 4 notes to play in the song tomorrow. Ah well, I just like to participate when I can.
I ate a small snack after practice and before heading north. My ride home wasn't much better. I'm not sure what the breeze was doing, there wasn't much for one and I think that it was supposed to be a tailwind. My legs just didn't have a lot of smoke in them today. I was okay, but my legs were tired.
Oh well, it was nice to get out. This time of year, one really doesn't know how many rides are in the cards yet. Plus, I did a LOT better riding this year than last.
Max, the puppy, is getting quite the belly and is starting to put on some weight. He rode with me on a bike down the driveway the other day. I figure that I'll carry him now, but when he's big he'll pull me. :D
We headed to Vermillion to catch a movie, so we got there early enough to get some food before hand. I'd forgotten that it was Ribfest weekend, since I hadn't thought that we'd be taking it in. I'm not much of a rib fan, but like pulled pork sandwhiches. The stand that I got mine from had a sweet and spicy mustard sauce that was good.
Part of Poker Alice was playing at Carey's, so of course we had to stop by and listen to them for awhile. :D They'll always have a special place in our hearts. We met at Carey's for our first date, I knew that Poker Alice would be playing. And the full band played at our wedding.
Step Brothers was our flick of choice this weekend. It was crass, vulgar, had juvenile humor, and was dumb.... But, I was laughing out loud for much of the movie. No, I hadn't had much to drink before we went. There were times where it was a bit over the top and wasn't quite as funny as one would like, but that was the point. I still like Talledega Nights better, but this was fun.
Today I knew that I'd be working pledge at night, though I also needed to go into town in the morning for bell choir practice. I didn't want to drive both times, so I rode my bike in for bell choir. I didn't get on the road when I should've. I busted my tail to cover the 16 miles to town, though my average was only just shy of 14. Blah. My driveway and the hills brought me down a little, but I just never got into stellar cycling shape this year. I had a little head wind, but not much.
I was 10 minutes late for bell choir. As a result, I got the picked over role and only have 4 notes to play in the song tomorrow. Ah well, I just like to participate when I can.
I ate a small snack after practice and before heading north. My ride home wasn't much better. I'm not sure what the breeze was doing, there wasn't much for one and I think that it was supposed to be a tailwind. My legs just didn't have a lot of smoke in them today. I was okay, but my legs were tired.
Oh well, it was nice to get out. This time of year, one really doesn't know how many rides are in the cards yet. Plus, I did a LOT better riding this year than last.
Max, the puppy, is getting quite the belly and is starting to put on some weight. He rode with me on a bike down the driveway the other day. I figure that I'll carry him now, but when he's big he'll pull me. :D
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
My silly puppy
So this morning I went for a short run. Now, however, I have two four legged monsters to avoid while I run. I've not fallen over a pup yet, but I think my time might be coming.
Ruby tends to follow along, but does her own thing running around in the fields next to the driveway. Max decides that though he's small, he doesn't want to be left behind. I'd gone for a two mile walk up and down the driveway last week, and had to carry the puppy a couple of times. I wasn't going to carry him while I ran.
Max did well, but was whimpering around a mile and a half. I didn't have a leash to drag him along, he could've stopped whenever. I did try to carry him a little bit, but he didn't like the jarring motion and whined then too. After I finished running for about a mile and a half, I wanted to walk the last .5. Max, was going to come along still too. So, I picked him up, he settled in and I carried him for a quarter mile. Silly puppy.
Our plan had been to not spoil him. We may be foiled again. Though Nick tried to pick him up last night to snuggle with the puppy. Max is a loose cannon and a biting machine. He's a wild puppy and it is difficult to chill out with him unless he's on the verge of exhaustion. Any other time, he's 16 pounds of crazy in an 8 or so pound sack. He plays HARD. We like him.
I will have to post a current picture eventually. Both of his ears are popped up and he now looks even more like a small german shepherd instead of *just* a puppy.
As far as cycling goes, I was out of town for most of the weekend. I got out on Saturday for a quick ride before we headed to Iowa to visit Nick's family. I biked over to Union Grove park and made a loop through the campground. I'd never done that before, I don't know why. That'd be decent hill training in the future - doing repeats through the park, it's not a solid hill, but a few hills gradually increasing to the top of a large hill.
Today I'm off to Mitchell again. I'll be back on Friday.
Ruby tends to follow along, but does her own thing running around in the fields next to the driveway. Max decides that though he's small, he doesn't want to be left behind. I'd gone for a two mile walk up and down the driveway last week, and had to carry the puppy a couple of times. I wasn't going to carry him while I ran.
Max did well, but was whimpering around a mile and a half. I didn't have a leash to drag him along, he could've stopped whenever. I did try to carry him a little bit, but he didn't like the jarring motion and whined then too. After I finished running for about a mile and a half, I wanted to walk the last .5. Max, was going to come along still too. So, I picked him up, he settled in and I carried him for a quarter mile. Silly puppy.
Our plan had been to not spoil him. We may be foiled again. Though Nick tried to pick him up last night to snuggle with the puppy. Max is a loose cannon and a biting machine. He's a wild puppy and it is difficult to chill out with him unless he's on the verge of exhaustion. Any other time, he's 16 pounds of crazy in an 8 or so pound sack. He plays HARD. We like him.
I will have to post a current picture eventually. Both of his ears are popped up and he now looks even more like a small german shepherd instead of *just* a puppy.
As far as cycling goes, I was out of town for most of the weekend. I got out on Saturday for a quick ride before we headed to Iowa to visit Nick's family. I biked over to Union Grove park and made a loop through the campground. I'd never done that before, I don't know why. That'd be decent hill training in the future - doing repeats through the park, it's not a solid hill, but a few hills gradually increasing to the top of a large hill.
Today I'm off to Mitchell again. I'll be back on Friday.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
The Sing-a-long Edition? Really?
This Friday the Mamma Mia Sing-a-Long edition starts in theatres. Truly? People who haven't yet seen the movie probably don't know the words or don't care about the movie, period. I doubt that the karoke version will entice them.
People who would go to a movie and sing with the show already know the words anyhow. I found myself singing through 95% of the movie already. I make sure to just mouth or sing under my breath, I didn't want to be THAT person. I think the words on the bottom of the screen would be seriously annoying. There was only one song that I wasn't really familiar with.
People who would go to a movie and sing with the show already know the words anyhow. I found myself singing through 95% of the movie already. I make sure to just mouth or sing under my breath, I didn't want to be THAT person. I think the words on the bottom of the screen would be seriously annoying. There was only one song that I wasn't really familiar with.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Not much to speak of...
I think that I'm getting over my cold, though stuff continues to work it's way through the system, so that's wonderful.
Last week I didn't get much running or biking done since I didn't feel well at the start and Wednesday night I had to head to Mitchell for work. The pool in the hotel was 9 feet deep, which is rare. So, I hopped in and treaded water for a bit. I'm a very uncoordinated swimmer, so I don't do that often either. I don't really doggy paddle, I suppose what I tend to do is a hybrid breast stroke with a frog kick. :D I don't know how synchronized swimmers do it. I tried treading water with just my arms and really had to work at it. They do it upside down with everything below their waist above the water... and no floaty wings!
I did take advantage of the treadmill on Thursday. I have a love/hate relationship with them. Their good if you can't get away and outside, but my attention span is limited and can never get many miles out of a session. I walked and jogged for about 2 miles, then I needed to get ready to meet my cousin. She and her family live in Mitchell. It was the week of Corn Palace days.
I'd considered taking my own car with my bike to Mitchell so that I could do the Tour de Corn. But, I didn't.
Skip Friday, I worked and then went home. Saturday it was a GORGEOUS day. In my head I was going to bike in the afternoon when it warmed up. However, I did yard work for much of the morning. I purchased a few plants that needed to go in the ground. I raked and dug a few holes and watered stuff with five gallon buckets. I was tired in the afternoon, plus we had a puppy. So, no ride. I did wake up quite sore on Sunday morning. I was actually kind of glad to know that I'd gotten a good workout. :D
I had to get to Sioux City by late morning to pick up a gift for the bridal shower that I was to attend in the afternoon. I couldn't let an opportunity sneak by for at least a quick bike ride. I'd hoped that the Wakonda oil would be paved by now. It wasn't. I just went over to University and up to 302 and back. It was good for a quick 13. I'm bummed to hear from Cathy that they're going to chip seal 302. Blah. That's not going to be good and worked in this season!!
Last week I didn't get much running or biking done since I didn't feel well at the start and Wednesday night I had to head to Mitchell for work. The pool in the hotel was 9 feet deep, which is rare. So, I hopped in and treaded water for a bit. I'm a very uncoordinated swimmer, so I don't do that often either. I don't really doggy paddle, I suppose what I tend to do is a hybrid breast stroke with a frog kick. :D I don't know how synchronized swimmers do it. I tried treading water with just my arms and really had to work at it. They do it upside down with everything below their waist above the water... and no floaty wings!
I did take advantage of the treadmill on Thursday. I have a love/hate relationship with them. Their good if you can't get away and outside, but my attention span is limited and can never get many miles out of a session. I walked and jogged for about 2 miles, then I needed to get ready to meet my cousin. She and her family live in Mitchell. It was the week of Corn Palace days.
I'd considered taking my own car with my bike to Mitchell so that I could do the Tour de Corn. But, I didn't.
Skip Friday, I worked and then went home. Saturday it was a GORGEOUS day. In my head I was going to bike in the afternoon when it warmed up. However, I did yard work for much of the morning. I purchased a few plants that needed to go in the ground. I raked and dug a few holes and watered stuff with five gallon buckets. I was tired in the afternoon, plus we had a puppy. So, no ride. I did wake up quite sore on Sunday morning. I was actually kind of glad to know that I'd gotten a good workout. :D
I had to get to Sioux City by late morning to pick up a gift for the bridal shower that I was to attend in the afternoon. I couldn't let an opportunity sneak by for at least a quick bike ride. I'd hoped that the Wakonda oil would be paved by now. It wasn't. I just went over to University and up to 302 and back. It was good for a quick 13. I'm bummed to hear from Cathy that they're going to chip seal 302. Blah. That's not going to be good and worked in this season!!
Saturday, August 23, 2008
New Addition to the Family
When people ask if we want another cat, I typically answer that we are to have no more house pets nor do we need another mouth to feed. We've talked that if we got another dog, assuming in several years after Ruby grows old and leaves us, we'd maybe like a big dog like a German Shepherd. We've come across other nearly free labradors and thought it'd be fun to get a playmate for Ruby. But she's a spoiled indoor dog and how could we have a dog outside when Ruby would be in with us?
Nick's boss's wife got Max, a German shepherd yesterday. Though, like most puppies, Max work his teeth and nips at people. There's a baby grandchild in that family, so a nipping puppy wasn't going to work. What to do, what to do? Hmmm.... Well, it COULD go back to the vet where it came from. All of its siblings had already been adopted. But Nick called to ask what I thought about bringing him home.
I didn't have a problem with the idea, but we really don't have any business bringing another pet into the house. Max is a pure blood German Shepherd. We decided that we'll try to have him as an outdoor dog. He'll probably like that pretty well. He'll be huge. Plus, maybe, he might be helpful working with the cattle that we seem to be acquiring as well.
Max doesn't come without a few issues. He is, afterall, a puppy. He nearly began chewing on my sandals. The sandals that replaced a pair of sandals that Ruby had chewed when SHE was a puppy. I need to keep my cycling shoes out of his path too.
Ruby and Max seem to be compatible. They were rolling around together on the ground instantly. Pixel seems to be irritated that we've AGAIN brough another animal into the family. She'll maybe forgive us by New Year's. That doesn't mean that she'll be yet speaking to Max. Sketch doesn't seem to care.
PS CDV: You and your kids can bike up here and play with the canines any time!! Then that's 30 miles toward your son's goal of fifty AND you don't have to buy a puppy. :D
Nick's boss's wife got Max, a German shepherd yesterday. Though, like most puppies, Max work his teeth and nips at people. There's a baby grandchild in that family, so a nipping puppy wasn't going to work. What to do, what to do? Hmmm.... Well, it COULD go back to the vet where it came from. All of its siblings had already been adopted. But Nick called to ask what I thought about bringing him home.
I didn't have a problem with the idea, but we really don't have any business bringing another pet into the house. Max is a pure blood German Shepherd. We decided that we'll try to have him as an outdoor dog. He'll probably like that pretty well. He'll be huge. Plus, maybe, he might be helpful working with the cattle that we seem to be acquiring as well.
Max doesn't come without a few issues. He is, afterall, a puppy. He nearly began chewing on my sandals. The sandals that replaced a pair of sandals that Ruby had chewed when SHE was a puppy. I need to keep my cycling shoes out of his path too.
Ruby and Max seem to be compatible. They were rolling around together on the ground instantly. Pixel seems to be irritated that we've AGAIN brough another animal into the family. She'll maybe forgive us by New Year's. That doesn't mean that she'll be yet speaking to Max. Sketch doesn't seem to care.
PS CDV: You and your kids can bike up here and play with the canines any time!! Then that's 30 miles toward your son's goal of fifty AND you don't have to buy a puppy. :D
Olympics...
I'm really not sure who impresses me the most in all of the olympic games. I was just watching a bit of rhythmic gymnastics. I generally only care to watch a little bit of their stuff. Though, I do believe that they're extraordinarily talented. I will never be that coordinated.
I can never figure out which event in men's gymnastics is my favorite.
I never thought that watching a marathon would be that interesting, but last week we watch the women's olympic marathon. They are all super human and incredible.
The last two weeks have gone quickly. I didn't get to catch as much as I'd hoped. The men's gymnastics finals were on past 10p.m. and I fell asleep before I could see much. I wanted to see the BMX races and a bit more of the track cycling races.
I got to see the condensed medal round for pole vault, so it was nice to see Derek Miles a bit.
In normal life, I'm not really a televised sports enthusiast. I will say that the end of the Olympics will be a bit bittersweet. Even if it is tough to try to soak it all up without gettin burned ou.
I can never figure out which event in men's gymnastics is my favorite.
I never thought that watching a marathon would be that interesting, but last week we watch the women's olympic marathon. They are all super human and incredible.
The last two weeks have gone quickly. I didn't get to catch as much as I'd hoped. The men's gymnastics finals were on past 10p.m. and I fell asleep before I could see much. I wanted to see the BMX races and a bit more of the track cycling races.
I got to see the condensed medal round for pole vault, so it was nice to see Derek Miles a bit.
In normal life, I'm not really a televised sports enthusiast. I will say that the end of the Olympics will be a bit bittersweet. Even if it is tough to try to soak it all up without gettin burned ou.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Busy Week and a Day to celebrate
So, I haven't been on my bike since August 8. And I haven't run since August 11. No exciting ride blogs here.
I have,however, been doing yardwork. I started working on a trail of sorts, however short, around our acreage. I weedwacked a bit of it and my arms were rather tired afterword. So, I'm content with that as some level of physical activity.
I'd post pictures of the path, but it's nothing to look at yet. I tried it with a bike, and need to tweak a couple curves yet. Hopefully I can get flowers and things other than grass growing to add some visual interest along the trail. Someone in my household thinks that I may get distracted and lose interest before I get too far with the project. :D He may be right, but I'll try. I imagine that I have my whole life to build on that place, but I need to stake a claim on it before kids come along and put go cart trails everywhere. Both may take some time.
Hubby caught a cold this past week and was close to death. I of course got one as well, but wasn't as severe. We're getting better, though I'm still tired. Instead of a ride on Saturday, I transplanted herbs in my yard to an area around our deck. It's something that needed to be done. They'll look better there too, if they survive the transplant shock.
Yesterday in the matter of 7 hours we husked, scraped, cooked, bagged and froze 500 ears of sweetcorn. Yikes. It was nearly enough to break down the freezer. My mom and grandma stopped by to provide an extra set of hands in the afternoon. Though we're happy to have yummy corn that should last us nearly until next season.
A ride would've been lovely, but we enjoyed the bonding time and the hours flew quickly. I only have cell phone pictures of the husk carnage.
We had a bbq with friends on Friday, and had family over for awhile yesterday. It was nice to have a relaxing, yet busy weekend. It really makes today more special. Nick and I have been married for a whole year! The weeks really flew by. We have fun goofing around, but really work well together and get jobs done. It is nice to have a partner in crime and a great family backing us up as well.
I have,however, been doing yardwork. I started working on a trail of sorts, however short, around our acreage. I weedwacked a bit of it and my arms were rather tired afterword. So, I'm content with that as some level of physical activity.
I'd post pictures of the path, but it's nothing to look at yet. I tried it with a bike, and need to tweak a couple curves yet. Hopefully I can get flowers and things other than grass growing to add some visual interest along the trail. Someone in my household thinks that I may get distracted and lose interest before I get too far with the project. :D He may be right, but I'll try. I imagine that I have my whole life to build on that place, but I need to stake a claim on it before kids come along and put go cart trails everywhere. Both may take some time.
Hubby caught a cold this past week and was close to death. I of course got one as well, but wasn't as severe. We're getting better, though I'm still tired. Instead of a ride on Saturday, I transplanted herbs in my yard to an area around our deck. It's something that needed to be done. They'll look better there too, if they survive the transplant shock.
Yesterday in the matter of 7 hours we husked, scraped, cooked, bagged and froze 500 ears of sweetcorn. Yikes. It was nearly enough to break down the freezer. My mom and grandma stopped by to provide an extra set of hands in the afternoon. Though we're happy to have yummy corn that should last us nearly until next season.
A ride would've been lovely, but we enjoyed the bonding time and the hours flew quickly. I only have cell phone pictures of the husk carnage.
We had a bbq with friends on Friday, and had family over for awhile yesterday. It was nice to have a relaxing, yet busy weekend. It really makes today more special. Nick and I have been married for a whole year! The weeks really flew by. We have fun goofing around, but really work well together and get jobs done. It is nice to have a partner in crime and a great family backing us up as well.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Margarita Ride T-shirt
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Sunday, August 3, 2008
I am proud of my hubby! Long account of MS 150
Now, I've mentioned that perhaps Nick's training plan wasn't exactly conventional for the MS 150 this summer. Then he had planned to take it easy this week, but had to level off a silo (lots of shovelling) on Thursday. On Friday the silo unloader broke, and since it was full he climbed up and down it several times.
I, however, was a lazy bum.
Nick and I got to the start and got on the road with everyone else and felt good. We made sure to eat well the night before and that morning. Still, when we turned South, into the wind the challenge increased for everyone.
By Lennox, Nick's legs didn't have so much smoke, which was crazy. We knew that the Trek hybrid would be more work since it was heavier and just didn't roll the same as my roadbike. But we were going SLOW and it was very difficult and his legs had pain. He stopped and tweaked the seat position several times and that seemed to help.
The whole trip was just picking away at the miles and achieving small goals. It was a frustrating day for Nick. We felt better that there were generally people around us the whole way. Though others talked about and eventually did grab the aid of a SAG wagon to cover a few miles. That's just what people had to do to get down the road.
Saturday was an emotionally challenging day. Nick did give me clearance to head down the road. I waved the bull crap flag and said I wouldn't. That wouldn't have been cool of me. Plus, I am well aware of how cruel miles can be when you're already in less than ideal conditions. Cycling is SUCH a mind game. You can work through a lot of stress and issues, but you can also work yourself into quite the funk if given the opportunity. We were both cranky for a few moments here and there. It happens. But if I had left then we both would've been cranky on our own.
We decided that if we could just get to 306th St. and have those few miles with a tailwind, we could manage the last 14 on University. At the pitstop on University several people were catching rides into town to miss the hills.
One man with a Gary Fisher bike said that I could have it if I wanted it. I asked if he was upgrading to a roadbike. He said, "No. I'm done biking." I believe that his wife had talked him into riding the MS150 after a signifcant break from biking (like 20 years... I think.).
The official cut off time on the course was 4:30. We were on the S curves then. We had decided together that if we were asked to leave the course, we would politely decline. I ride that road all of the time and we could do it. Nobody asked us to leave, but the SAG wagons were circling like vultures. It was nice to know that they were hanging out in case anything was needed.
Nick and I have been married nearly one year. There's a good chance that we'll have to endure some fairly crappy things together and we won't get to pick and choose. So, as long as we have the priviledge to decide the challenges that we'll tackle together, I figured that we may as well finish them together too. It was tough, but we had a good time along the way.
So yay. We got in at a quarter to five after a very long day on the road. I felt pretty good, though I don't think that my butt has been on the saddle that long, ever.
We both enjoyed the banquet. If a person ever loses sight of why we do this, they do a great job of reminding riders. I'm glad that they share statistics so that we can share the info when we talk about the ride with others. I just can't believe the number of MS patients in the region. There's something like 4,000 in the US and approximately 1200 just in the midwest. It hits close to home.
After the banquet we slept like rocks. That was nice, I hadn't slept much the night before.
Nick wasn't exactly certain of how far he'd ride Sunday. The wind was gracious and allowed us to cover miles easily. However, when we'd go down hills I beat him, no problem. He'd have to pedal his bum off even then, the bike didn't coast much. THEN, a 90 pound kid on a mountain bike with wide, knobby, tires beat Nick downhill. Something was clearly wrong with the bike. I was kicking myself for having not cleaned the bike and relubing it. We didn't do a thorough check of either bike. We flagged down Two Wheeler Dealer to ask them for assistance.
As soon as we'd stopped, I saw the problem. The rear brake was slightly off kilter and rubbing on the rim. Bollocks. He'd been riding with some significant drag. The rim was warm. At least we caught it before the first rest stop on Sunday. Though Saturday could've been less miserable.
The heat was my kryptonite. There were times that I could've maintained a decent clip of speed, though over the day the temperature wore me down. oof. But, we still made decent time compared to the day before.
Cathy Logue met us along the route as she was driving out of Sioux Falls. We were less than 2 miles out, she was honking like a crazy person. That was fun. Holly and Cindy were right behind her offering water. We happened to be good, but thanks!!! Friendly faces were appreciated.
We got in at about 3p.m. The icy, wet towel was awesome. But, the mudslide at Nutty's was the best!
We're both home and fairly well spent. I don't think that Nick will do an epic ride of this sort for awhile. It just doesn't work in his schedule. I would be very much happy if we could get out and ride to Volin or Spink for breakfast occasionally. We shall see. Plus, I am very hopeful that when we do have a family, our future kids will enjoy getting out for events like this too. We were very impressed with how well all of the kids this weekend seemed to be doing.
AND, I got to meet TEZ and saw a couple that I'd met on the Tour de Kota.
We both enjoyed the atmosphere, it's too bad that Nick hates talking with people. I keep encouraging him to work on his conversation skills. People just laugh and say he's weird. Or funny. I did hear someone say he's funny. I contend that they were polite and left off the funny looking part. That's what will keep him coming back. It's not the biking, it's harassing people along the way that appeals to him.
Whatever it takes to get butts on the saddle, right?
Congratulations to every member of Team Roadkill for a job well done!!! And thanks to all of the volunteers for the event. You guys rock! Combined with all riders, it was a great effort for an excellent cause!
I, however, was a lazy bum.
Nick and I got to the start and got on the road with everyone else and felt good. We made sure to eat well the night before and that morning. Still, when we turned South, into the wind the challenge increased for everyone.
By Lennox, Nick's legs didn't have so much smoke, which was crazy. We knew that the Trek hybrid would be more work since it was heavier and just didn't roll the same as my roadbike. But we were going SLOW and it was very difficult and his legs had pain. He stopped and tweaked the seat position several times and that seemed to help.
The whole trip was just picking away at the miles and achieving small goals. It was a frustrating day for Nick. We felt better that there were generally people around us the whole way. Though others talked about and eventually did grab the aid of a SAG wagon to cover a few miles. That's just what people had to do to get down the road.
Saturday was an emotionally challenging day. Nick did give me clearance to head down the road. I waved the bull crap flag and said I wouldn't. That wouldn't have been cool of me. Plus, I am well aware of how cruel miles can be when you're already in less than ideal conditions. Cycling is SUCH a mind game. You can work through a lot of stress and issues, but you can also work yourself into quite the funk if given the opportunity. We were both cranky for a few moments here and there. It happens. But if I had left then we both would've been cranky on our own.
We decided that if we could just get to 306th St. and have those few miles with a tailwind, we could manage the last 14 on University. At the pitstop on University several people were catching rides into town to miss the hills.
One man with a Gary Fisher bike said that I could have it if I wanted it. I asked if he was upgrading to a roadbike. He said, "No. I'm done biking." I believe that his wife had talked him into riding the MS150 after a signifcant break from biking (like 20 years... I think.).
The official cut off time on the course was 4:30. We were on the S curves then. We had decided together that if we were asked to leave the course, we would politely decline. I ride that road all of the time and we could do it. Nobody asked us to leave, but the SAG wagons were circling like vultures. It was nice to know that they were hanging out in case anything was needed.
Nick and I have been married nearly one year. There's a good chance that we'll have to endure some fairly crappy things together and we won't get to pick and choose. So, as long as we have the priviledge to decide the challenges that we'll tackle together, I figured that we may as well finish them together too. It was tough, but we had a good time along the way.
So yay. We got in at a quarter to five after a very long day on the road. I felt pretty good, though I don't think that my butt has been on the saddle that long, ever.
We both enjoyed the banquet. If a person ever loses sight of why we do this, they do a great job of reminding riders. I'm glad that they share statistics so that we can share the info when we talk about the ride with others. I just can't believe the number of MS patients in the region. There's something like 4,000 in the US and approximately 1200 just in the midwest. It hits close to home.
After the banquet we slept like rocks. That was nice, I hadn't slept much the night before.
Nick wasn't exactly certain of how far he'd ride Sunday. The wind was gracious and allowed us to cover miles easily. However, when we'd go down hills I beat him, no problem. He'd have to pedal his bum off even then, the bike didn't coast much. THEN, a 90 pound kid on a mountain bike with wide, knobby, tires beat Nick downhill. Something was clearly wrong with the bike. I was kicking myself for having not cleaned the bike and relubing it. We didn't do a thorough check of either bike. We flagged down Two Wheeler Dealer to ask them for assistance.
As soon as we'd stopped, I saw the problem. The rear brake was slightly off kilter and rubbing on the rim. Bollocks. He'd been riding with some significant drag. The rim was warm. At least we caught it before the first rest stop on Sunday. Though Saturday could've been less miserable.
The heat was my kryptonite. There were times that I could've maintained a decent clip of speed, though over the day the temperature wore me down. oof. But, we still made decent time compared to the day before.
Cathy Logue met us along the route as she was driving out of Sioux Falls. We were less than 2 miles out, she was honking like a crazy person. That was fun. Holly and Cindy were right behind her offering water. We happened to be good, but thanks!!! Friendly faces were appreciated.
We got in at about 3p.m. The icy, wet towel was awesome. But, the mudslide at Nutty's was the best!
We're both home and fairly well spent. I don't think that Nick will do an epic ride of this sort for awhile. It just doesn't work in his schedule. I would be very much happy if we could get out and ride to Volin or Spink for breakfast occasionally. We shall see. Plus, I am very hopeful that when we do have a family, our future kids will enjoy getting out for events like this too. We were very impressed with how well all of the kids this weekend seemed to be doing.
AND, I got to meet TEZ and saw a couple that I'd met on the Tour de Kota.
We both enjoyed the atmosphere, it's too bad that Nick hates talking with people. I keep encouraging him to work on his conversation skills. People just laugh and say he's weird. Or funny. I did hear someone say he's funny. I contend that they were polite and left off the funny looking part. That's what will keep him coming back. It's not the biking, it's harassing people along the way that appeals to him.
Whatever it takes to get butts on the saddle, right?
Congratulations to every member of Team Roadkill for a job well done!!! And thanks to all of the volunteers for the event. You guys rock! Combined with all riders, it was a great effort for an excellent cause!
Friday, August 1, 2008
Tagged.
If you could have any one — and only one — bike in the world, what would it be?
I don't know. I don't really have *bike lust* TOO bad. My bike gets me down the road, I have a Giant OCR 1. Though, I imagine that I'd be pretty happy with a completely carbon bike. Though I do like the look of Rivendell bikes. I am more of a sucker for cool colors and paint schemes. When I went shopping for my bike I wanted a blue one. Though I think a hazzard yellow bike would be awesome. And what I'd REALLY like is for Trek to bring back their "Design a Dream Bike Contest" so that I could submit an idea for their Project One Paint Schemes.
Do you already have that coveted dream bike? If so, is it everything you hoped it would be? If not, are you working toward getting it? If you’re not working toward getting it, why not?
I'm working on the drawing that I would submit if the contest ever opened back up. Otherwise, I'm content with my current bike. Until it breaks, I won't worry about it. I'm collecting pennies to add a mountain bike. Or pending how this weekend goes, maybe a roadbike for Nick.
Now, for a completely frivolous addition... I would like Nick to build an adult size greenmachine/trike for me. I think that would be fun for when kids hopefully come into the picture.... riding up and down the driveway on their level.
If you had to choose one — and only one — bike route to do every day for the rest of your life, what would it be, and why?
I do like the Meckling Loop too. But, the 30ish miles from my house to Vermillion and back would be much more practical... I would pick the University/Highway 19 loop rather than University/Greenfield Road.
Do you ride both road and mountain bikes? If both, which do you prefer and why? If only one or the other, why are you so narrow-minded?
I do not have a mountain bike. I am diligently watching various Craiglist locations and ebay and end of season sales. It's something I'd like to try. Even if I acquire a mountain bike, I will still likely use the roadbike more. I love just tooling along country roads.
Have you ever ridden a recumbent? If so, why? If not, describe the circumstances under which you would ride a recumbent.
I would like to try a recumbent.
Have you ever raced a triathlon?
Nope. I'm not exactly what you would call an efficient swimmer. Yeah, that's the best possible way that I can put that. Did you see the episode of Friends where Phoebe goes running with Monica (I think)... That's what I would look like swimming the American crawl. I'll doggy paddle or do a frog type stroke, but that won't cut it. :D
Suppose you were forced to either give up ice cream or bicycles for the rest of your life. Which would you give up, and why?
Ah man. I do really really enjoy ice cream. But I never get cranky having not had ice cream for awhile. I enjoy other forms of excercise too... but I think that I have to keep the bike.
What is a question you think this questionnaire should have asked, but has not? Also, answer it.
What is the most curious thing that someone's asked you about cycling, or you've noticed about someone else?
"Did you go down the interstate?"
I've also seen people biking on the interstate often enough that I wonder where they're going and have to get there so fast that they're biking ON the interstate? I really can't imagine that if they're on bike, travelling, that an extra half hour to hour or so to get to a side road just a couple of miles away could really make THAT much difference considering safety. I'll be open minded though and welcome explanation.
You’re riding your bike in the wilderness (if you’re a roadie, you’re on a road, but otherwise the surroundings are quite wilderness-like) and you see a bear. The bear sees you. What do you do?
Well, maybe I might be with Biking Brady and Cactus Eyed Joe and they might play Alpha bear... But they probably would be ahead of me. I'd give the bear the granola bar that I surely have along because it is, of course, a Silly ole bear. And, I would ponder my lack of bear spray when I never expect to need it against dogs and never expect to actually see a bear. Somehow kicking the bear in the snout may not be the appropriate move in this situation.
Now, tag three biking bloggers. List them below.
Angie has a blog, but I don't remember the address. :-(
I don't think that Ashley has a blog, but she should and she should answer this, if she chooses.
I don't know. I don't really have *bike lust* TOO bad. My bike gets me down the road, I have a Giant OCR 1. Though, I imagine that I'd be pretty happy with a completely carbon bike. Though I do like the look of Rivendell bikes. I am more of a sucker for cool colors and paint schemes. When I went shopping for my bike I wanted a blue one. Though I think a hazzard yellow bike would be awesome. And what I'd REALLY like is for Trek to bring back their "Design a Dream Bike Contest" so that I could submit an idea for their Project One Paint Schemes.
Do you already have that coveted dream bike? If so, is it everything you hoped it would be? If not, are you working toward getting it? If you’re not working toward getting it, why not?
I'm working on the drawing that I would submit if the contest ever opened back up. Otherwise, I'm content with my current bike. Until it breaks, I won't worry about it. I'm collecting pennies to add a mountain bike. Or pending how this weekend goes, maybe a roadbike for Nick.
Now, for a completely frivolous addition... I would like Nick to build an adult size greenmachine/trike for me. I think that would be fun for when kids hopefully come into the picture.... riding up and down the driveway on their level.
If you had to choose one — and only one — bike route to do every day for the rest of your life, what would it be, and why?
I do like the Meckling Loop too. But, the 30ish miles from my house to Vermillion and back would be much more practical... I would pick the University/Highway 19 loop rather than University/Greenfield Road.
Do you ride both road and mountain bikes? If both, which do you prefer and why? If only one or the other, why are you so narrow-minded?
I do not have a mountain bike. I am diligently watching various Craiglist locations and ebay and end of season sales. It's something I'd like to try. Even if I acquire a mountain bike, I will still likely use the roadbike more. I love just tooling along country roads.
Have you ever ridden a recumbent? If so, why? If not, describe the circumstances under which you would ride a recumbent.
I would like to try a recumbent.
Have you ever raced a triathlon?
Nope. I'm not exactly what you would call an efficient swimmer. Yeah, that's the best possible way that I can put that. Did you see the episode of Friends where Phoebe goes running with Monica (I think)... That's what I would look like swimming the American crawl. I'll doggy paddle or do a frog type stroke, but that won't cut it. :D
Suppose you were forced to either give up ice cream or bicycles for the rest of your life. Which would you give up, and why?
Ah man. I do really really enjoy ice cream. But I never get cranky having not had ice cream for awhile. I enjoy other forms of excercise too... but I think that I have to keep the bike.
What is a question you think this questionnaire should have asked, but has not? Also, answer it.
What is the most curious thing that someone's asked you about cycling, or you've noticed about someone else?
"Did you go down the interstate?"
I've also seen people biking on the interstate often enough that I wonder where they're going and have to get there so fast that they're biking ON the interstate? I really can't imagine that if they're on bike, travelling, that an extra half hour to hour or so to get to a side road just a couple of miles away could really make THAT much difference considering safety. I'll be open minded though and welcome explanation.
You’re riding your bike in the wilderness (if you’re a roadie, you’re on a road, but otherwise the surroundings are quite wilderness-like) and you see a bear. The bear sees you. What do you do?
Well, maybe I might be with Biking Brady and Cactus Eyed Joe and they might play Alpha bear... But they probably would be ahead of me. I'd give the bear the granola bar that I surely have along because it is, of course, a Silly ole bear. And, I would ponder my lack of bear spray when I never expect to need it against dogs and never expect to actually see a bear. Somehow kicking the bear in the snout may not be the appropriate move in this situation.
Now, tag three biking bloggers. List them below.
Cactus Eyed Joe
Angie has a blog, but I don't remember the address. :-(
I don't think that Ashley has a blog, but she should and she should answer this, if she chooses.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
It's not the heat, it's the humidity...
I haven't done a lot of biking over the last week. I have been doing a little bit of running. OR swimming on dry land. However way you want to look at it.
Last week I couldn't figure out why I ran 3 miles four minutes slower than my already slow time. Oh, could it be because it was like somewhere between 85 and 95% humidity? One morning I thought I'd be okay with 75 degree weather, but I was still dying. That whole sweat not being able to evaporate is critical.
Last night I wanted to run three, but was happy with two. I walked the driveway and could feel steam coming off of the corner on each side. I thought that I'd go out to the road to try and benefit from what little breeze there was. It was 90 ish degrees out and weather.com said that the humidity was down to 59%. I still nearly croaked. Heat was coming off of the road and the wind was fairly non existant.
On the bright side, last summer I didn't run much at all. OR bike. I fell off of the wagon and it took awhile to get back on.
I'm looking forward to the MS ride this weekend, even if it is in the 90s. It's much more tolerable on the bike. And hopefully the breeze will be *just enough to cool* and under the point of being a burden.
See you Friday night!!
Last week I couldn't figure out why I ran 3 miles four minutes slower than my already slow time. Oh, could it be because it was like somewhere between 85 and 95% humidity? One morning I thought I'd be okay with 75 degree weather, but I was still dying. That whole sweat not being able to evaporate is critical.
Last night I wanted to run three, but was happy with two. I walked the driveway and could feel steam coming off of the corner on each side. I thought that I'd go out to the road to try and benefit from what little breeze there was. It was 90 ish degrees out and weather.com said that the humidity was down to 59%. I still nearly croaked. Heat was coming off of the road and the wind was fairly non existant.
On the bright side, last summer I didn't run much at all. OR bike. I fell off of the wagon and it took awhile to get back on.
I'm looking forward to the MS ride this weekend, even if it is in the 90s. It's much more tolerable on the bike. And hopefully the breeze will be *just enough to cool* and under the point of being a burden.
See you Friday night!!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Here I go again, My, My, How can I resist you...
Mamma Mia is quite possibly the best chick flick ever! :D My mom and I went to see it yesterday. There were a few guys in the audience, I suppose their wives didn't take the advice "You and your mom should go and see that!" to heart.
I wish that I would've seen the stage version too, though. That'd be awesome. I believe that it was almost out when I was in England in 1999. And it probably was still on stage when I was there a few years ago. But, I was on a Les Miserables kick each time. I think that it was in Sioux City a couple of years ago. KG95 had a call in contest along the lines of ABBA karoke. I wanted to try but was afraid that I'd totally blow it. Plus, I probably had to work the night the show was in town.
So, now I'm loading more ABBA music onto my Ipod. I don't know why I hadn't before. Hopefully I'll get out to run before it rains.
Speaking of, how'd the ride go yesterday? I look forward to reading ride reports.
I was going to bike to Lennox to my grandma's house. But, as I was getting ready to go out the door the hubby called and warned me of a looming storm. I checked the radar and thought I'd miss it. It looked like it'd be a bit west yet. The radar is full of hooey, or I can't read it. I don't know. When I went back outside I could clearly see the darkening sky and could hear thunder. I didn't need to ride that badly. When I drove to Lennox, I saw some funky clouds, impressive lightening bolts and met some decent rain.
I hope the riders didn't get too soaked.
I wish that I would've seen the stage version too, though. That'd be awesome. I believe that it was almost out when I was in England in 1999. And it probably was still on stage when I was there a few years ago. But, I was on a Les Miserables kick each time. I think that it was in Sioux City a couple of years ago. KG95 had a call in contest along the lines of ABBA karoke. I wanted to try but was afraid that I'd totally blow it. Plus, I probably had to work the night the show was in town.
So, now I'm loading more ABBA music onto my Ipod. I don't know why I hadn't before. Hopefully I'll get out to run before it rains.
Speaking of, how'd the ride go yesterday? I look forward to reading ride reports.
I was going to bike to Lennox to my grandma's house. But, as I was getting ready to go out the door the hubby called and warned me of a looming storm. I checked the radar and thought I'd miss it. It looked like it'd be a bit west yet. The radar is full of hooey, or I can't read it. I don't know. When I went back outside I could clearly see the darkening sky and could hear thunder. I didn't need to ride that badly. When I drove to Lennox, I saw some funky clouds, impressive lightening bolts and met some decent rain.
I hope the riders didn't get too soaked.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Meckling Loop
Nick and I rode the Meckling loop today. I keep saying that it's 30 because that's what it's listed as during the Margarita Ride. But, truthfully it's 28. It'd be about 30 if a person looped around and came into town from lower Vermillion, I'd imagine. But we don't often do that. Oh well. For now 28=30 and it's close enough.
Nick agreed to do the Bike MS ride with me. Unfortunately biking and farming don't really go together very well. He hasn't really had much of a spare moment to breathe lately he's been in the field or just at work constantly for the last couple months.
Two weeks ago we biked the trail around Sioux Falls. Today he did pretty well too, with a few extra miles. It got really hot and breakfast wasn't consumed before we rode. The guy is tough. He's physically fit, biking is just a new challenge.
I'm hopeful that the ride will be a postive experience. I think that it will be. The MS ride has such a good community of riders already and the support stops are well stocked. PLUS, if the weather or what not doesn't pan out to be a pleasant experience, it's our home turf. My grandma lives in Lennox. And we can hide a cooler at the end of our driveway stocked with beer. Though the distance after our house to Vermillion isn't really very substantial.
After our ride we went to an auction at the Armory in Vermillion. Yikes, that was hot. Lots of people in a gym with no air. We took a break to go and get food from Pro's. Yum. We went back and scored the object that we were interested in. A paint sprayer for a fraction of what we'd have to buy it for otherwise. This acreage needs paint and I'd rather be biking than rolling it on. Wait. I'd rather be biking than watching NIck roll it on. Let's be honest. :D
Nick agreed to do the Bike MS ride with me. Unfortunately biking and farming don't really go together very well. He hasn't really had much of a spare moment to breathe lately he's been in the field or just at work constantly for the last couple months.
Two weeks ago we biked the trail around Sioux Falls. Today he did pretty well too, with a few extra miles. It got really hot and breakfast wasn't consumed before we rode. The guy is tough. He's physically fit, biking is just a new challenge.
I'm hopeful that the ride will be a postive experience. I think that it will be. The MS ride has such a good community of riders already and the support stops are well stocked. PLUS, if the weather or what not doesn't pan out to be a pleasant experience, it's our home turf. My grandma lives in Lennox. And we can hide a cooler at the end of our driveway stocked with beer. Though the distance after our house to Vermillion isn't really very substantial.
After our ride we went to an auction at the Armory in Vermillion. Yikes, that was hot. Lots of people in a gym with no air. We took a break to go and get food from Pro's. Yum. We went back and scored the object that we were interested in. A paint sprayer for a fraction of what we'd have to buy it for otherwise. This acreage needs paint and I'd rather be biking than rolling it on. Wait. I'd rather be biking than watching NIck roll it on. Let's be honest. :D
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Our pets let us live here.
We have three pets. Two cats and a dog. My cat Sketch very much enjoys being outside and is a much more agreeable cat for it. He tends to prefer the evening hours, which is fine with us because he isn't running all over the house and playing with the dog while we're trying to sleep. Oh and you can't have a glass of water on the nightstand, the cat will stand on you to drink from it. I imagine it's like having young kids. You have to remove all temptation.
However, our dog and the cat are pals. Earlier in the spring when we'd sleep with the windows open - Sketch would be outside in the morning and call for us to let him in. Typically not a big deal, it was about the time when we'd be getting up anyway. Now, the dog thinks it's fun to wake me up to let her go outside to find Sketch. Lately she's been horrible. At first I thought that she really had to go to the bathroom. Nope. She's messing around.
She's pretty good at knowing when the cat needs to come in. I think that they have some extra sensory dialogue going on.
There's a whole process to taking care of everyone in the wee hours: make sure that you fill the cat dish with food because Sketch will be hungry. So the ideal routine to minimize time awake: Let the dog out, cat in. Go fill the cat dish while the dog may or may not be emptying her reserves. Let the dog in, go back to bed. But an hour later I'm usually wakened by a peeved cat because the dog ate his food (we do feed the dog too, she just seems to prefer the cat food- same brand even).
Yesterday the cat was out during the day hours. So Ruby woke me up at like 2 a.m. because the cat wanted to go out. I said you're both going out and I'm staying in here. See you in the morning.
Ruby is much more agreeable in the winter. She only goes out at night when she *has* to. Pansy dog.
Despite my complaining, I still enjoy their company. They can't talk to us, but they're very good at communicating anyway. And just by observing their actions a person can figure out what it is that they're trying to do. Ruby is very good at going outside, putting her nose to the ground and tracking Sketch.
I don't know if Sketch likes it because I would imagine having a big yellow dog trail you may impact your ability to catch mice.
And Pixel, well, she seems content to rule the house. She listens to the voices in her head and spends her day chasing flies or moths or her shadow up and down the hall upstairs.
However, our dog and the cat are pals. Earlier in the spring when we'd sleep with the windows open - Sketch would be outside in the morning and call for us to let him in. Typically not a big deal, it was about the time when we'd be getting up anyway. Now, the dog thinks it's fun to wake me up to let her go outside to find Sketch. Lately she's been horrible. At first I thought that she really had to go to the bathroom. Nope. She's messing around.
She's pretty good at knowing when the cat needs to come in. I think that they have some extra sensory dialogue going on.
There's a whole process to taking care of everyone in the wee hours: make sure that you fill the cat dish with food because Sketch will be hungry. So the ideal routine to minimize time awake: Let the dog out, cat in. Go fill the cat dish while the dog may or may not be emptying her reserves. Let the dog in, go back to bed. But an hour later I'm usually wakened by a peeved cat because the dog ate his food (we do feed the dog too, she just seems to prefer the cat food- same brand even).
Yesterday the cat was out during the day hours. So Ruby woke me up at like 2 a.m. because the cat wanted to go out. I said you're both going out and I'm staying in here. See you in the morning.
Ruby is much more agreeable in the winter. She only goes out at night when she *has* to. Pansy dog.
Despite my complaining, I still enjoy their company. They can't talk to us, but they're very good at communicating anyway. And just by observing their actions a person can figure out what it is that they're trying to do. Ruby is very good at going outside, putting her nose to the ground and tracking Sketch.
I don't know if Sketch likes it because I would imagine having a big yellow dog trail you may impact your ability to catch mice.
And Pixel, well, she seems content to rule the house. She listens to the voices in her head and spends her day chasing flies or moths or her shadow up and down the hall upstairs.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
One thing that I made yesterday
Last November my husband and I took our honeymoon to the island of Kauai. There they have a sea glass beach, a place where discarded glass that's been tossed in the ocean washes up and for some reason collects there. The glass has been worn smooth and frosted by the waves and sand, etc.
The beach has been picked over by thousands of people. There were a half dozen or so people there. I wish that I would've brought my camera down. It would've been neat to have pictures of beach combers bent over in the sand, searching, bums in the air. Well, the picture in my head at the time really was quite charming.
Any way, my hubby and I brought back a bag or so of the stuff. Yesterday I made a sun catcher.
It will live in the bathroom that I'm redecorating.
The bathroom will be an ongoing project. I've got the nasty wallpaper down and wall primed, but I really can't stand the tile that's on the wall. That's even nastier. Plus it is falling off. Man, green wall paper with a medium sized floral viney pattern on it... With neutral colored tile with cream and gold flecks running through it. Ish.
The beach has been picked over by thousands of people. There were a half dozen or so people there. I wish that I would've brought my camera down. It would've been neat to have pictures of beach combers bent over in the sand, searching, bums in the air. Well, the picture in my head at the time really was quite charming.
Any way, my hubby and I brought back a bag or so of the stuff. Yesterday I made a sun catcher.
It will live in the bathroom that I'm redecorating.
The bathroom will be an ongoing project. I've got the nasty wallpaper down and wall primed, but I really can't stand the tile that's on the wall. That's even nastier. Plus it is falling off. Man, green wall paper with a medium sized floral viney pattern on it... With neutral colored tile with cream and gold flecks running through it. Ish.
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