Viva Bien

Chequammeve

2010-09-17T19:38:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow morning at 10 am, the cannon will blow and we'll be off down Main Street Hayward through the woods on the Birkie trail, crosseyed and out of breath-- on the verge of cramping the entire way... I can't wait. I'm excited. Last time I did the 40 was in 2007 at 26. Now, I'm old... 29---- time to get moving. ha!

Today was pretty eventful- after a long easy morning of icing my leg and having a cuppa coffee (and of course having some pumpkin cookies...), I headed up to Teleworld to cruise on the Superfly- pick up my #, and eat some grub with some good friends!

This weekend is always so awesome. Food, friends, mountain biking everything. I'm realizing one of the best things about the race is that it includes everyone. I have my "elite" friends where we all talk tactics, tire pressure/selection, fuel, etc etc... then there are all of the other people who will be happy to just finish- those who are trying to beat their time from last year-- or eat as many doughnut holes as possible.... the local Co-op donates 10,000 doughnut holes. I'm going to eat at least 30 tomorrow.

Some photos from the day: Ken from Trek! Setting up the Superfly that will FLY tomorrow. :) Thanks to Ken and Chris Shaw for your support this weekend! Next... you'll see the registration operation that accommodates 2,500 racers in only 4 hours--> Talk about STREAMLINE. Balla. One minor thing, I need to get my bib #'s for tomorrow! My pack didn't have the numbers... my bad for registering LATE! boo! Last-- since the Lodge is closed-- they ended up with a big TENT! it's huge! :) Well done.

Here are a couple photos from 2007! My pa, me and The PHAT man himself, Gary Crandall! 2 of my fav people! :) Next to them, you see my dad's handi work pre race. He used to do course set up for the 40 and they always seemed to have some extra time to set up the mannequins legs in some precarious position! This, by far was my favorite.... just beats out the time they put the legs in the middle of a huge mud puddle a number of years ago! :)

Big day tomorrow!

time to hit the haaaaaaaaayyyyyy stack! haha!

Chequamegon prep. 2010.

2010-09-16T19:05:00.000-07:00

Special note: In the photo is the best cookie that has ever been made. Hayward Bakery is the best. I'm having one of these cookies every day I'm home.

_________________________________________

Two days until the big event-- I haven't trained this specifically for anything in a while! Thanks to a good friend who has been helping me with a very specific training plan and encouragement-- I feel fit, rested and ready to rock! This month's prep consists of a number of criteriums, hard solo workouts, motorpacing, and rest--- I even quit having any of my fav adult bevvies!!

My last ride in Asheville was a little mtn bike ride-- I opted for bent creek... always a good little ride especially if I'm goi

ng out solo. Ride was EXCELLENT--- until I hit the deck hard. I clipped a pedal on a log, went over my bars and found myself trailside on my belly. I was stunned and couldn't feel my right quad.....I pushed myself up not knowing if I was severely injured-- I know I sound dramatic, but I was a wreck. Luckily, I landed directly on a rock and wasn't impaled or broken! I almost started crying-- like a little girl! ha! I found myself picking my bike off the ground, noticing 2 flats, a completely broken front brake and blood coming from my thigh and the back of my leg... conveniently a guy named Chad rolled up. He asked if I needed help, and obviously didn't know what he was getting himself into! He helped me change my flats and gave me a tube (I had one--not two!)... and usually I'm the one helping change flats, but I really had a hard time keeping composed! blahblah blah....

Leg is fine now, BUT still very stiff and about 1.5 times the size of my other thigh. At this point all I could think of was that my race was in only 5 days! TIME TO HEAL! I've been diligent with epson salt baths/icing/ibuprofen/stretching so hopefully my crash wont' effect my performance on Saturday!

This little voyage began on this past Wednesday-- my roommate Tom was nice enough to give me a ride to the Asheville Airport-- 15 mins from our house. Flight was good-- trashy mags, tomato juice, and nice conversation with the lady next to me made for easy flying. AVL-DFW-MSP. Pa picked me up in Minneapolis. We had a nice ride back to Hayward in the rain.

Being home has been awesome- I am fortunate to have most of my family here and spent much of my morning visiting and hanging out! We also had some excellent spaghetti at Coop's Pizza with Mark Hirsch and his fam! Great people!!! :

This weekend I'll be racing in my friend's shop kit-- New Moon! Thanks to Joel, Chris and Judy! :) Right on!

xo!

~~~~~~

kbr

SpeedWeek!

2010-05-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

Asheville is great! I just had a day to hang out and recover from a tough week of racing-- mentally and physically. After spending much of my day at Hearn's, my bike is taken apart and the 'ole ride is READY to ROCK!!!! Working tonight slingin' steaks, so I'll post more later... I just wanted to make the next post THAT much easier to write.... Until then here are a couple sweet photos of a couple GREAT teammates. Thanks for the week. Love you girls!

HOLLA!!

Here's to a new week!

North Carolina-- the new locale.

2009-11-30T13:05:00.001-08:00

So here I am- In Asheville NC. It is pretty awesome- have already had many epic days of training through new roads in Appalachia. I live in a sweet house in West Asheville with a couple really cool roommates: Jonas and Tom. I'll introduce y'all to them in another update. I'm working at a restaurant in south Asheville-- making good friends and having a good time.

I figured it'd be good to get blogging again, as I really enjoy it and always see things that make me laugh, and others may appreciate too... maybe not, but whatever... I like it. And if you're reading, you like it to. Probably.

This past weekend, I went to Banner Elk to visit a good friend: Carla. We had a blast crusin' through the mountains on our bikes, eating candy and finding things on the side of the road.

Carla was admiring Grandfather Mtn... and then we tried to get some shots of us together... mostly they were unsuccessful...

Thanks for stoppin' by! :)

Kate.

Bratwurst capital of the WORLD.

2009-06-23T17:53:00.000-07:00

More races to come more to do. We've relocated from the Sunny-Hill Farm in Columbus WI to Milwaukee, to SHEBOYGAN. Everytime we say we're staying in Sheboygan, the people mention the bratwurst. I have learned (this weekend)... if you are vegan you TOO can enjoy a bratwurst. So, there you have it. eat up and enjoy. This is US in a really sawweeetttttt cafe in Sheboygan. Almost as good as a "mobile upload."

Brief race recaps:...

Manitowoc: 4 corner + fun. some could have called it boring, but there were plenty of attacks and a bit of good team work from a few different teams. I raced solo that day, so it was a bit different than normal! I actually won a prime and thought I had another but Davina totally got me at the line. I thought I was alone, and rolled the last 3-4 meters. (bad mistake!) :) BUT that is when the field split. We had quite a gap and worked as hard as we could to keep away- there ended up being about 7 girls together for the last 8 or so laps, trying to keep the field away. The break was pretty exciting..... around the last corner, I was sitting 3rd wheel... getting ready to sprint to the line. I felt good, but still need to work on some top end speed + my sprinting form. I ended up 6th. A successful day. and did I mention FUN? Traveling w/ Jen Greenburg and Rebecca Finley of VanderKitten was definitely a blast! :)

REST DAY!!!

here goes:

--> wake in Milwaukee --> coffee on the patio--> sweet drum & bass techno w/ breakfast --> massage --> easy ride to the Milwaukee shore line --> yoga in a park on Lake Michigan --> lunch @ beans and barley --> nap--> dinner w/ Chris and Kim Hoppe --> Dinner w/ A.Crater & J.Greenburg--> more coffee shop! REST DAY = AWESOME.

Fond du Lac RR

HOT and kinda boring. (well, it was still good!). Toni Amanda and I raced today-- Toni got away in a break w/ 5 riders and soon grew to 7 riders.... Amanda and I were in in the field... Long story short, we were underrepresented in the break (we tried to bridge 3-4 times) and then we just tried to work together to finish the race. Toni secured 6th (tried to attack before the finish).... and Amanda was 10th and I ended up 19th or so. Our plan was for me to attack before the final corner up the hill through the feed zone and Amanda could climb her way to a good downhill sprint finish. All in all, good job by all. Good to be out on the bikes. My tanlines on my legs are definitely more defined after today.

BIG SHOUT OUT to CHRIS & KIM HOPPE! They're letting me use their car for a few days! xoxo.

Kbr

Wisconsin Dairyland tour!

2009-06-20T06:57:00.001-07:00

(no photos for this post, I'm lame)

We (Toni Amanda and I) made it to Rebecca's a few days ago and are camped out at her farm! We've been having a blast racing and chillin-- enjoying the thunderstorms and mosquitos... and custom installs (the team van has a new critical feature). Rebecca has a beautiful place and has been cooking up a gluten free storm (since she and Toni are GF, I am too for a few days...)!! yum

The Dairyland tour started on Thursday with a killer 44 mile road race in Blue Mounds. (proposed 2016 olympic course). Amanda got the WIN, Toni rested and I had a good training day-- lessons learned! We started with the fastest neutral rollout ever-- (I don't even know when the race really started...). My plan was to throw some attacks if I started to get antsy. So I did, once only 5 miles in and again about 9 miles in-- and I had a decent gap until we turned the corner-- and we were at the bottom of a huge hill. OUCH. I need to be patient and know the course a bit better! I ended up with a group of about 5 girls and we were working well-- then I ended up getting a bee in my jersey, which proceeded to sting me 3-4 times in the arm pit. We were blasting down a descent so I couldn't really stop until I got to the bottom and the little bastard finally flew away. It didn't take me too long to catch my little chase group that I rode with until the end. Then there was the leg cramp.... it was hot, muggy and I probably didn't drink enough water. blah blah blah. At the top of the feed zone, someone told me that I was 'still in the money'... I couldn't really believe it. BUT, I ended up 15th and was fairly pleased with my placing-- all things considered. xoxo bluemounds.

The Waterloo crit was super fun- Toni got in an early break and ended up pulling off a 3rd place! :) Amanda, Becx and I were in the field following little attacks and keeping things cool. The course was awesome- lots of people out and great support from SRAM!!! Our super secret plan was for me to lead out Amanda. We had good placement for the last 1/2 lap but were on the front for the climb and ended up getting swarmed and lost places-- there wasn't enough time to recover and move up in the field. I was gassed from my last little effort of trying to move up. We had an active race and had plenty of fun-

Today.... GRAFTON CRIT!! My fav. Amanda is sitting out- so it'll just be Toni and I.

until LATER!

kbr.

Memorial Day bike races!

2009-05-28T21:16:00.001-07:00

This weekend Toni, Amanda and I headed to the Quad Cities for a few days of some good racing- Amanda won Snake Alley on Saturday and placed well the next few days... check out some photos...

Here we are after the quad cities crit- Amanda and Toni were in a break and I had the best day ever of blocking- it was truly a great experience- lots of fun. I had a blast racing back in the midwest with lots of old (and new) friends! :) Unfortunately I couldn't get back in because of a little wreck- 'tis okay- :) the girls did very well. But-- big high five to Meredith Miller for winning the last 2 races of the "Iowa Memorial Day Bike Races."

Here's a small group of us at Snake Alley- again, mucho fun, I finished in mid-field- okay for my first time ever doing it. NEXT year should be even more fun! It was great to see my cousins Gail + Paul and their kids Sarah and Evie. THANKS for cheering!

After a fun dinner with the team, Toni and I blasted over a few hours in BLACK BETTY to Shelbyville Illinois. My mom hosted us for a few days and we were treated to some excellent food, good tea, fun times, and even better- more laughs!! (thanks, ma-- you make my heart smile). As you can see, Shelbyville is really hilly and we struggled to find a good place for a recovery ride.... uh....

Amanda and I are in Tulsa right now- Trying to fall asleep. We pick up our mechanic in the AM and Missy in the av0 (afternoon).

More updates and COMPLETELY INSPIRATIONAL photos and quotes to follow.

High five to Renee and Amy for getting me to get back to this.

Silver City, New Mexico!

2009-04-27T22:03:00.000-07:00

Gila! Here's a the Gila National Forest- absolutely beautiful. We all made it into town after some flights, long drives, sweet rental car, even hotter black van... all 9 of us! Missy, Jessie, Kyle, Amanda, Toni, Hilary, Anne, Carla and I got in a bit late to our host housing because of adverse weather in Colorado. I felt bad leaving all of my friends to more cold slush... but not really!! :) It'll be warm and sunny soon.

Amanda and I are sharing a room at our host house-- it is a pretty sweet house that lets us do what we need! We're pre riding the TT course tomorrow and I imagine that we'll head into our favorite coffee shop in town and have a tasty coffee drink.

**notice our silky, smooth sheets.

Good night all!

Kate

Missing!!

2009-04-14T07:55:00.000-07:00

Missing: My gold headband!!! :) I know it's ridiculous, but it fits so nicely under my helmet! I am sure it won't be gone for long- it's probably in a pile that is yet to be organized from my move!!

Maria wears hers when she ski races... or when she goes out on the town!

More later.

Kate.

Bogarted.

2009-03-28T04:15:00.000-07:00

So, my first Redlands is over- I have a few teammates who are still in and doing pretty well... Here is a photo of my the bike I rode yesterday. I crashed-- that's what happens in road racing sometimes. Racing is a combination of preparation and luck. This week I have had plenty of bad luck.

I found out yesterday morning that my bike wasn't shifting properly during my race-- I thought it was fixed, but alas I was wrong... so for the prologue on Wednesday, I raced w/ a regular 25 instead of a 27... which doesn't make that much of a difference normally, but when you climb straight up for 5k and everyone else is either running a compact or a 28 in the back... it does make a difference! SO.... that is fine- I pushed a larger gear which makes sense that I had a slower time. lesson's learned.

Here's a photo of the start line-- Anna and Carla! Before the mayhem.

So yesterday.... different story. I was in the field and at about 8 miles in, the mayhem that was developing all the way through town finally detonated. I ended up going down with about 10 other girls-- long story short, I ruined my left shifter (it was dangling), ruined my front wheel and I really don't know what else.... I didn't notice my shifter at first, so I radioed back for a new front wheel-- the caravan stopped and everyone was running all over the place!! I was calm, fixed my chain and stood with my front wheel over my head.... waiting.... our car finally got there and our mechanic jumped out w/ a wheel... he was reaching to put it on and THATS when I noticed that my bike was unridable. BLAST!

So... I needed a bike change--which took flippin forever. It was mavic neutral support and they did a good job getting me going-- I happened to be near their car so that was fortunate... so, my new bike: an aluminum men's 54 cannondale w/ a Fizik Arione, which I'll never suggest for any other woman EVER. By the time I got my pedals taken care of, etc... anyone in the race (including those who were dropped) were GONE. I got a huge push from one of the Mavic guys and turned the corner into a NASTY headwind + climb... I rode the next 50 miles on a harsh-ill-fitting bike, with a rubbing front derailleur, and 3 police motos. (the END of the group). So I caught 5-6 girls, and everyone of them were quitting, and I wasn't too happy because I wanted to get back on really bad. So I just kept truckin'. New goal: finish and hope they don't enforce the time cut. My time with the police moto was awesome. One of the guys asked me if it would be easier if I rode behind him... I laughed and told him YES. Who would turn that down? It was AWESOME. I didn't do it too much, but when I did, I was SOOO thankful for a little break from the 35+mph winds. I had a police entourage.... Who else can say that!? They were hauling ass through intersections & stoplights. I felt friggin fast... nevermind i was WAY off the back... Anyway... so I made some new friends, and felt pretty good over all- and i got a great workout- motopace extravaganza.

Unfortunately, they did enforce the time cut so I'm done racing. Bad luck. Both days. Anyhow- it could have been worse. On a lighter note... I got a new cactus from a road side stand: only $1 and my new plant collection begins.

And... on an even better note-- Carla was the Queen of the Mountain yesterday! So she'll be wearing the climber's jersey! I'm so excited for her- she is awesome. We made her a crown because they messed up the results-- so she missed her podium shots! Total bummer!

The crit is today and Kacey is excited to do some strong crit riding- and Hilary is looking forward to helping keep Carla in the mix of things. There's more racing to do and I wish I were racing, but I'm glad to be here to help.

So there it is.

Disappointing, but 'tis life sometimes. I am loving my team and the support we have! Missy & Jessi (Manager/DS/soigneur) are definitely the dynamic DUO.

I have to give a huge shout out to Jose Alcala, Paul Damato and SRAM. Jose fixed up my bike and Paul is delivering it-- A+ service. and VERY MUCH APPRECIATED!! I probably wouldn't have a bike to ride right now without them. High-five and thank you.

tutu,

Redlands #1

2009-03-26T22:22:00.000-07:00

So we made it to CALI for Redlands- here is a minor update on what's been happening. Wednesday, (yesterday) we prerode the course- and it was quite eventful. First of all, I'd like to apologize to my darling Carla for stabbing her in the leg with Kacey's chainrings. Note: Blood on gingered leg (freckles).

It was indeed my fault and this is why... we were cruising down this hill and stopped at a stop sign. We were going straight and the woman in a little VW Cabrio was going right. She went right and we heard an awful sound. Kaaahhhthunk-sscrrrraaaape... we look and no joke, her entire wheel was rolling across the intersection. Kacey immediately jumped off of her bike and ran after the wheel which was rolling into on coming traffic (no worries, we were totally safe... it was a 4-way stop...). Anyhow she shoved her bike to me and I started riding and pushing her bike while riding. Since doing that isn't the easiest endeavor, I couldn't stop when I got to Carla. So, I stabbed her. Sorry Carla. :) Note: woman in red below, Kacey, car on axel, and wheel down in the grass. This woman wasn't even freaked out one bit.

Anna, Karla, Kacey and I rode the TT course and couldn't resist taking some sweet self portraits while riding (another great skill).
Introducing: MEAN ROCK. When in doubt, look at mean rock and get mean while listening to Rob Zombie.
As for the race today, it was tough, and I really don't know why I couldn't go faster up hill. Sounds funny to say it, but I guess you never really know- minor bike issues & major sinus issues??? OR, just slowness? I'm going to get to the bottom of this! It was a Tough prologue and I know that tomorrow and the next few days will be better! I have a feeling Missy really made me climb the hill with my tires at 35 psi.... or maybe I did the race in a 23-11? or... well, we'll just leave it at that!

More racing to come!

Kate

Frui-tabulous!

2009-03-19T20:34:00.000-07:00

These past few days- I set off on another sweet & epic adventure with my crew from University bikes... as a reward for working hard through the winter and to get us ready for the summer, our work offered a trip for us to go to one of the most excellent mountain bike meccas in Colorado... and maybe even the western US. (I was excited to go, because... remember I was gone for 2 mos of the 'winter'). We had access to us an entire bed and breakfast-- no hotel. Even better. The entire house.

Here... Brian is taking a photo of Haas TRYING to get some sick air... his lips are clenched in concentration. At least his front wheel is off the ground! haha.
Here's the sweet bike I got to use... it is (was) a brand new bike and I feel like I gave it a proper maiden voyage. Very awesome ride.
We stopped for a bit on the road 19 trails-- the guys were jumping something, and I was waiting... I had to pass-- can't get hurt doing something too stupid on the mountain bike!
Here's a photo of our crew after dinner-- note... Dr. Pepper, Brian, Josh, Matt, Mikey, Kurt, Brett and Roscoe. A great group of guys! Lots of fun. Brian even learned how to play cribbage. I learned that a couple of the guys in the group have some pre-ty-good cooking skills.

Next up-- a few days of cat sitting for a Anne SLAM, wine-pouring, bike selling, and packing for CALIFORNIA! REDLANDS!!

yes.

~~k

Team Camp Weekend!

2009-03-16T05:38:00.001-07:00

Good morning Boulder! Most mornings, I get up-- make coffee-- grab a cuppa and take a bit of a walk. Here is the view only a few steps from my door. (mom this is on our morning phone walks!) This is my favorite part of the day-- when the sun begins to shine on the Flatirons.

This weekend, 6 of 8 of our teammates came to Boulder for a training camp-- we were lucky with weather and were able to get in plenty of riding, a local race, a photo shoot, and plenty of laughs. We're looking forward to a good season! We even were able to meet Buddy Bell (the owner of Bonne Bell or... aka LIP SMACKER).

Here we are finishing up our ride on Friday- Carla's all smiles... as usual. Our new bikes are awesome and really fun to ride... and our new kits are pretty sweet too.

Missy and Kacey at my fav place: West End.

So, now I'm off to Fruita with some of my colleagues (if you can call employees at a bike shop colleagues??).... We'll go with that. I have to leave in a half hour and still need to pack... But before then, I need to finish my first cuppa.

Enjoy this excellent day!

Back in Boulder.

2009-03-10T20:54:00.000-07:00

I've been back in Boulder for just over a month now- and have been enjoying most days! Training hard and working back at University Bikes... they have been very good to me, allowing me to work when I am available and making my work schedule work with my racing and training schedule. I know I'm a pain to them, but it is such a fun job and I'm glad to be back.

It snowed a bit this morning and the temp dropped about 45 degrees f from last week. Knowing Colorado weather, I just had to wait until the afternoon until the roads dried up... by 1pm, no snow-- good for riding. But one thing that is true, cold + cold wind = cold. You'll see by this pic of my uneaten banana.... can you tell which half of the banana was sticking out of my jacket and was frozen!? I didn't see this until I got home, and it definitely made me laugh a bit.

This next picture is of my very favorite mailbox. Someday when I have my own mailbox it will look something like this... minus the pink swirls... but if you look closely, you'll find a t-rex, a stegosaurus, a triceratops, AND... Fred Flinstone and Barney Rubble. Awesome.

AND... the best part of the ride today..... little flowering Simpson Hedgehog cactus!! Very cool- and I didn't expect to see this today!
Training camp is this weekend- all but two of the Lipsmaker's Girls will be heading to Boulder!!

A trip to the grocery.

2008-12-31T18:54:00.001-08:00

A while ago, Clare's mom Patricia (or Thea, auntie in Greek) took me on my first grocery excursion... Here are some photos from my adventure:

And, It was pretty exciting that the grocery store was an IGA, which is actually the grocery store that I grew up going to! There are more 'organic' groceries around... but this one is always convenient.I was surprised to see the butcher in the meat department actually butchering... not just slicing cheese and ham...

appetizing! :)

You can actually buy 1 single serving of creamed corn. What a cute, little can! :)

Condensed milk comes in a tube. I would probably confuse it with tooth paste!

The fruit here is TASTY and plentiful! I have learned hot to properly cut (and eat) a mango... and also how to drink Ouzo with Clare's dad Arthur... yum :).

tutu~

New Year's Resolution!!

2008-12-31T00:06:00.000-08:00

In light of the New Year, I'm going to make a resolution:

I'm going to get BACK on the blog wagon! :) My mom and pop have been bugging me for updates, so here goes!

It's New Year's Eve here in Melbourne- I'll be celebrating NYE 16 hours before y'all! So perhaps, I'll celebrate twice! I'm at Bec and Arnaud's house for an excellent French-ish dinner -- stew and we'll be having CREPES for dessert! I'm excited for crepes.

The other night, Arnaud took out his indoor grill! It is definitely awesome-- 4 meats, including kangaroo! A bit gamey, but it truly reminded me of Venison. They continue to take very good care me here in OZ!

In two days my team here in Australia will be heading to the Jayco Bay Cycling Classic-- a 5 day criterium series in Geelong. I've been here in Australia for just over a month now and have been coming along with my training and some local crits.

Here are a couple photos of some training rides!

Clare and I went on a pretty nice ride on Christmas day- before we headed to her brother in-law's family's house for a traditional Greek Christmas! Very fun- very good food!

All is good here in Australia!

Have a safe and stellar New Years!!

Epic with a capital E.

2008-11-27T19:15:00.000-08:00

~~I wrote this entry on 3 different days... it may be confusing- but after today, it shouldn't be.

Thanks to Garrett for taking me around Boulder yesterday morning… or 2 or 4 mornings ago? I don’t even know what day it is right now. Garrett is planning a 2 week trip to the mountains to climb 15 forteeners. He has already done 10 in the last month—so this will be a big deal for him! Check out his blog and climbing adventures here.
On to DIA/LAX/NZ/OZ!
DIA on thanksgiving... not very crowded.
I asked for 'spicy' tomato juice and ended up getting bloody mary mix-- with 85% of my daily dosage of sodium--

In the LAX bar, I was told by a fellow at the bar that I look very Scandinavian… I think I’ll take that as a compliment-- He was on his way to Hawaii to get married to a woman he met at his class reunion… (30 year I think). They had never met each other before! Funny how things work!

So far so good! I’m currently writing in Auckland NZ—funny thing is that I didn’t even know we were going to stop on Auckland. My ticket said—Melbourne and I didn’t ask questions. I have already learned that American Airlines and Qantas Airlines are both under the “one world” agreement… and basically it means that they are the same thing. ? Who knows... Anyhow, I’m here in NZ for an hour and then getting on another flight over to Melbourne. So far… it has been 22 hours since my first flight- the flight from LA to Auckland ended up being 12 hrs. AND I only remember about 2 hours of the entire flight. I caught some serious Zzzzz’s.

I won’t really get to see much of New Zealand. Just now, I’m sitting in the airport- and some guy just bought a beer-- it is 6:14 am! That is the last thing I would want right now. bleh. I’d like a coffee but haven’t exchanged currency yet- and I have plenty to eat… no need to indulge- I’ll wait for the plane.

Clare was at the airport to pick me up- everything went well and I'm settled into my new room at Clare's house!

~~now the blog is updated I'll be better at posting :)

~~Kate

Tomorrow- OUT.

2008-11-26T19:05:00.000-08:00

If you ask my mother she'll definitely agree that I am a professional PROCRASTINATOR. I'm leaving tomorrow-- my flight is at 11:30... I am unsure of exactly what time I need to catch the bus-- but I know that I'll have a ride to the bus stop! (I'll look after I'm done posting!)

Anyhow, despite all that- I have had an amazing November. This fall, overall, has been excellent. I'll will reflect on that tomorrow at LAX during my 6 hr layover when I'm hanging out at the airport bar, while y'all are eating turkey and stuffing!! :) ... but get this. I get 2 bags-- 70 lbs each. No cost. AND my bike bag can count as 1 bag. Awesome. I'm bringing my down comforter AND my full sized french press that serves 20.

plush. high stylin'. for sure.

until then! Happy Thanksgiving! I will miss you all.
~~
xo--K

PS... I just got skype, so search for my email address and add me as a friend! Or just let me know if you have it.

The Albino Deer and the Metric System.

2008-11-03T20:25:00.000-08:00

My dad sent me photos of a deer that is living by our house in Northern Wisconsin-- an albino deer-- he said it is one of the biggest deer he has ever seen, with a very well developed rack... and I'm not talking about boobs here... Anyhow, It is always cool to see things like this- especially an OLD albino deer! Thanks dad. I started my ride this morning at 10:15 and decided that today was going to be the day that I switch to the metric system. In order to function well in Australia AND converse with my Norske-esqe friends, I need to speak in metric! I changed the settings on my garmin and headed up the hill to 4th street. The Kilometers just fly by... unlike miles... However... elevation, unfortunately does not fly by. For example... I rode 86 miles (138 k), climbed 6675' (2035m). A bit to get used to, but a good change nonetheless.

My ride to Estes was pretty awesome. Gorgeous day, good tunes and podcasts (http://www.thislife.org/) and plenty of wildlife. Crazy thing though- I only saw ONE cyclist out on the road today, at the beginning of my ride. Weird. Check out the elk hanging out on the side of the Peak to Peak--and the people taking photos of the elk. Always my favorite.

This church is on the peak to peak hwy too- very beautiful!

More rides & metric mayhem to come!

Australia and my Mom's blog.

2008-10-29T08:12:00.001-07:00

I haven't made the official announcement, but here it is: I'll be heading to Australia from Nov 27-Jan 27 to do some wicked training and racing down under! Check out the cycling news announcement for the "Jayco Bay Cycling Classic" aka Bay Crits... http://www.cyclingnews.com/road/2008/jan08/bayseries08/

More updates to come.

Not only does my mom kick my ass in Guitar Hero and any thing she plays on her Wii... she has started her OWN blog. And it is effffing hilarious. And she is posting more often than I am. But what a surprise since I have only posted ONE time in October. Check it out if you have time: http://www.denterwhalen.blogspot.com/ She calls it 'cornland central'

Here is (in order) Dalton, ME, Dennis (my step-pa) and my Mom. :) Check out her blog.

Kate Ross = Lamest blogger ever.

2008-10-01T21:55:00.000-07:00

Okay... so... Here are the excuses:

1] I got a new camera... and I can't find my new cord.

2] My computer is using 79.6 of it's 80 gigs and it is running slower than molassas in the middle of January. So, I have been fixin' to go to the store and pick up an external hard drive so I can clean some house!!!

3] I can't be bothered to go to the store or to look for my cord... :)

Party! I have plenty of photos coming-- and a video for my mom if I can get it uploaded, etc.

In the meantime, here is a photo of me hard at work.

tutu-----

New additon to my collection...

2008-09-15T20:47:00.000-07:00

So, I've been working quite a bit lately and sometimes the days get reallly long... but somehow we all manage to keep busy and help people get on their new bikes! One job that we have a U-Bikes is the greeter... we are often requested to "grab the door." Meaning, watch the door for anyone who comes in and greet them. I usually comment on any bike that is coming in the door, asking if they need service, etc. If the bike is cool, I always start out by saying "COOOOL Bike!" Today this happened. A guy came in pushing an OLD white bridgestone that was definitely "classic." It looked a bit beat up, but I appreciate the 'classic.' I asked him if he needed any service, to which he replied... "No, I just need to give this bike away!" I was SO excited because I have been in need of a commuter bike--- it is just never that great of an idea to commute on a carbon bike in a town where bikes are stolen so readily!

So my wish came true:

here it is.

1991 Bridgestone MB-0 (Zip) Handbuilt in Taiwan #1503

More info from www.firstflightbikes.com/1991_Bridgestone_MB0.htm...

Bridgestone carved out a nice niche by offering nicely built bikes that didn't follow the latest trends. They picked each part based on function not because it was part of a "gruppo". Bridgestone also resisted innovations such as suspension forks and push button shifters which endeared them to the Bridgestone Owners Bunch (BOB) which thrives today even though Bridgestone bikes haven't been sold in the USA for more than a decade. The Zip was the top of the line bike and used a very nice eclectic bunch of parts from many different countries (each represented by their national flag). This one is number 1498

HAPPY NEW (OLD) ((AND FREE)) BIKE DAY!!!

Birthday!!

2008-09-07T20:47:00.001-07:00

A big HAPPY BIRTHDAY goes out to my Pa! He's on a road trip in his 5th-wheel camper for 2 weeks... chillin in da UP. (Upper Michigan...)....

Much to my surprise and delight, he has started a blog. Here is the first line of his first post:

"Vacation to the Upper Peninsula!
Ya so den ve deicded it vas time for da vacation and decided to go to da U.P. eh?"

It is called "Hayweird" after the town I grew up in... HAYWARD! (Also known as the greatest place on Earth. Cari would agree). Anyhow, check it out at: http://www.dan54843.blogspot.com/

As for me, I have been taking a bit of time off of my bike for rest, and also for healing! My annoying knee issue has disappeared and I'm feeling better from my crash last week! Lets just say it was a horrible ride to work that day! :) Aside from the bike, my time has been occupied by learning to relax and chill, and also getting a regular yoga routine. I've been doing some hiking-- including a summit attempt to Bear Peak early last week and a successful summit later in the week! Fun times! I'll be toting my camera more often!

I didn't take either of these photos... but we put our names in the canister at the summit. Sounds awesome, but there were numerous papers shoved in and most were unreadable. We could tell it was monitored regularily...

until then...

K

Photos taken from: www.coloscisoc.org/fieldtrips/ft1.html and http://wendyellenms50.blogspot.com/2007/07/different-sort-of-12-miles.html

Favre's Legacy...

2008-08-26T21:39:00.000-07:00

My Dad sent this next photo to me in an e-mail... I thought I'd share with everyone...

If you're not from Wisconsin, or you don't follow the Green Bay Packers... this is what they are all devastated about:

I'd say that it is just weird.

~~
k

Boulder Roubaix.

2008-08-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

Check out http://www.teamamericasdairyland.blogspot.com/ for my latest race report... and photos... Here's one to keep you interested!

Dad's Wood Pile...

2008-08-15T22:08:00.000-07:00

Last week, I was able to head up to Hayward with Gabe to visit the Hayward Fam! We had an excellent time-- got in some rides, a mini-reunion/bbq, and even went to see the BIG FISH! Any how, here is some photo documentation of the past few weeks! Sit tight...

My dad acquired a whole lot of wood throughout this summer... I have seen domestic woodpiles before, but never this size. You can't see it, but you should know that he has already been chopping wood... 3 nights a week-- gettin' buff. His grand plan is to stay away from natural gas- Pretty cool I reckon.

I am only sharing two photos- I have more, but I think I'm going to bed instead-- race tomorrow- Boulder Roubaix-- hopefully it isn't too much of a sloppy mud fest!

tutu

Breif update on the return from Wisco.

2008-07-25T08:05:00.001-07:00

After the race on Sunday in Evanston- Clare and I headed south a bit to my mom's and spent a relaxing day chillin' by the pool, basking in the sun. We drove home on Tuesday- through Kansas. We hit some storms- but made it safely. Here are some photos of the past week.

A photo of the Sram guys that worked Superweek... and are probably STILL working superweek- Jose rocks!! Thanks to ya'll for taking care of us.

Before the race, we met up with John Hanson, a good friend of mine from Chicago- he is a pro photographer and wanted to get some shots of us. Check it! http://www.hansonimages.com/

John was able to get some sweet shots during the race- there are more!!

I have some photos from shelbyville and will be posting them soon... sorry Mom! :) hang tight.

This is where we were in Kansas. Kansas is a long, long state. for sure. Almost as exciting as Nebraska.

Clare is a good driver.... I was able to get some rest and some zzzz's.

Off to work.

gotta RUN!!!

tutu,

If you like Eastern Colorado... You'll LOVE Nebraska!

2008-07-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

Before heading to Superweek yesterday morning, Clare and I stumbled upon some GREAT morningtime TV while flipping around on the tele waiting for the tour to come back on... We found the best aerobics show ever. Anyone can do these aerobics because they are specifically for senior citizens... they even had big band music to work out too and silk flowers lingering in the background.

Off too Galena IL for the night, then Chicago Sunday morning. We ended up getting a late start b/c our car wasn't ready... etc...etc. We left at 10:00 mtn time and made it to Galena just before midnight (cst). We made good time, listened to a lot of bad music, looked at a lot of cows, and ate some good snacks. Here are some photos. This is what it is like to drive from Boulder to the Chicagoland area...

Hour #1--- excited to be on the road... loving Eastern Colorado.

Hour #2--- still loving Eastern Colorado...
Hour #2.5--- Colorado Cows- probably happier than California cows, but LESS happier than Wisconsin cows.
Hour #2.75 Welcome to Nebraska... Home of "Arbor Day" Thankfully someone had the foresight to plant some stinkin' trees around the Arbor Day sign...

Hour #4-- Clare isn't showing it, but she LOVES Nebraska.

Hour 5--- I love sandwiches.

Hour 6-- Nebraska Cows... See Colorado Cows... (still happier than California).

Hour 8.15-- What is worse than driving through Nebraska ? Driving through NE in the afternoon... worse than that??? Driving through Nebraska with road construction, traveling at 55 when you could be driving 77.
We found this independent burger joint that had a bunch of gorillas in front of it. They were all chained to the ground... We would have probably taken one if they hadn't been secured to the cement ground.

Hour #7-- IOWA

My friends Kelly and Joe hosted Clare and I last night in Galena, IL (where I lived for a good 3 years). We got in around 11:30 and left at 9 am-- her kids are great-- Nick and Mia- Nick is the next Shaun White and Mia the next Picaboo Street! :) It was great to see them-- the kiddos are getting so big! I was also able to make quick stops to see my friends Jim and Josie (and new baby Lilliana Sophia) AND my bud Jennifer!

I do miss Galena! It is a great place. Here is a photo that Peter Fraterdeaus took a couple years ago:

good night!

It's embarassing.... but....

2008-07-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

While usually, we're training-- working on bikes-- eating... and resting... Today we've been packing for our journey to Superweek--Today is also the day that happened to to be the day that MTV aired the entire season 7 of America's Next Top Model. Clare was VERY excited about this reality tv marathon. I, well, I'm honestly pretty sick of the television. BUT after the first episode, I was very interested... I did do some errands, work in the yard, go on a short ride all while this marathon was airing... but It was fun!!! And Clare and I would like to congratulate CARIDEE!!!

America's Next Top Model:
Okay... don't hold this against me. But if you haven't seen it... it is a pretty cool show-- I have to confess that I liked it and we were pretty excited when Caridee kicked Melrose's ass. Sorry Melrose.

tutu.
Kate

Happy Thursday!

2008-07-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU BRIAN "intergalactic" PIERCE for sharing your stellar mechanical skills!! I work with Brian at Ubikes-- he has wrenched for navigators and lipton in the past... he was kind enough to help me rebuild my bike (I didn't help much though...)! My frame is being sent back to Trek for some inspection- I'm using a different frame, but many of my same parts- I needed to swap the handlebars and crankset from my bike to an extra team frame... intense. For sure.

Clare and I decided that we would venture down to Pearl Street last night to get some food-- she was ravenous, so off we went. This singletrack photo is the trail that we take to get to Pearl St. You can see a fence on the left-- it is actually doubles as a fence and one beautiful piece of metal sculpture.

Thursday night in Boulder is happenin'. While eating on the patio at Old Chicago-- the Thursday night cruiser ride. We didn't see any naked people... but we saw many cross dressers, funky bikes, and crazy outfits. This is a big deal. We probably saw 300-400 people cruise by. No joke. "Happy Thursday, Happy Thursday"

What would make the night even better? Gelato. WOW... we stopped here on our way home. I chose coconut and Clare chose dutch choco and coconut.

Today we're getting everything packed and ready to go for superweek. We're heading out tomorrow AM- driving to Galena, IL and then to Chicago on Sunday. We begin racing on Monday and continue racing until the next Sunday. Sounds like a party! I'm pretty excited.

until later--

K

Watch the video on my new "video bar"...

2008-07-09T07:34:00.000-07:00

Interesting. You my not be able to solve the the energy crisis entirely by riding a bike, but this guy is ridiculous. Obviously he could stand to ride a few km's. Perhaps he's a little jaded because his bike sucks.

Easy day?

2008-07-06T22:39:00.000-07:00

When I got home from work around 5:30, Clare and I got ready to ride. I had an easier spin on par for the evening and Clare was stressed about her flight info for her up coming travels. On our ride, we took some weird turns and ended up on the Diagonal Hwy. We took the very first exit (only 50 yards after the intersection) to get off the highway-- and we had to go over some speed bumps. Since Clare has MAD mtn biking skills, she tried to jump them... so I thought about yet another ridiculous time to document stupid things we do for entertainment... enjoy... unfortunately, most of the photos document absolutely NO air. So, don't be surprised.

After our ride was ALMOST finished, we stopped by Cari's... Moo their dog (actually named Elka) began to lick my bike. Thanks to Elka, I don't have to wash it! I think she likes cytomax...

After our visit w/ Cari, Clare and I trudged back Mapleton to our apt... it is a super steep climb from a dead stop. I totally beat Clare up the hill... (haha).

tutu,

4th of JULY!!! AND another blissful saturday.

2008-07-05T18:40:00.000-07:00

Fourth of July was too much fun this year!! My boss, Doug, invited all of his employees over for a barbecue that included steaks, chicken, ribs, great salads (green... not macaroni), apple pie ala mode, a half barrel of Fat Tire Ale, dangerous hand-held fireworks and SOFTBALL! We could bring a friend, so of course I brought CLARE!!! Since they don't party on the 4th of July in Australia like we do... Clare had quite the American afternoon.

Here is Clare on first base-- she hit a single the first time she ever picked up a bat. I guess she is quite the cricket player.
I'm getting ready to bat. Although softball was fun... I am really sore from running the bases. I don't get to run much... and I will tell you, once I got up to speed while running the bases, I felt like I was a freight train that couldn't stop. I had a lot of forward momentum that felt unstoppable. Luckily, I managed to stay upright... but during my ride today, my adductors hurt horribly. I don't think I'll be doing too much more softball.... hmm... that whole sprinting from base to base thing just doesn't work with me right now.
To top off the evening, Doug hosted a "zany bike race." This bike was AWFUL to ride. It was a time trial...we had to ride down the alley about 25 yards, circle around an empty case of MGD and sprint to the finish line. I opted out from racing, because I didn't want to get too overzealous and crash on this thing. I could barely ride it. Take a look at my face. This is PURE fear. Here is the bossman getting ready to race. He did a lap in 25 seconds, but the winner... broke 20 seconds!!! Crazy. I did an informal race and made it in about 34. Clare opted out too...
Clare's FIRST root beer ever.

A successful forth of July, although I didn't stick around for the big fire works-- I was too tired! Lame-O. Went to bed instead.

Saturday ride on the Peak to Peak:

This is the guy who owns the Raymond Store- he was PISSED because some cyclists take water from his water jug and do not contribute to the fund. Please give him money to get more jugs of water!! :) He is a pretty cool guy-- he gave me directions to a place to take some great photos, but I didn't go- perhaps next time. He had already sold 50 bottles of gatorade by the time I arrived at 11:30 am. Pretty cool. You can even purchase vienna sausages there... if you ever get the hankering.

I started with Clare, but she wasn't feelin' it so she headed back down to town-- she only needed to do 3 hrs anyways. Good thing-- I was able to get some good riding in with my buds: Tom Ashbrook and Ira Glass...

Here is my bike seat and a couple ladies working a hot dog stand in front of the BP in Ned... I took it secretly... but they were totally going crazy dancing to a song by Jessica Simpson. I was inspired.... so I'm hosting a dance party on our patio sometime soon!

until tomorrow!

tutu,

Winterpark MTB and basking by the creek.

2008-06-30T19:07:00.000-07:00

Since the promoters of the Dead Dog Classic wouldn't let us register 3 hours after the registration deadline, Clare and I planned an epic weekend. With a sweet ride to Estes on Saturday under our belts, we packed up the Jetta and headed up to Winter Park for a mountain bike race on Sunday. The race was one 16.4 mile lap... which I thought was pretty short (soon to realize that it still took almost 2 hrs for a reason!!!). 2,500' of climbing, 3 near-death experiences and 109 mins later... I finished the race. The race took off with a 1.5 mile climb varying between 6 and 18% grades. Ouch. I wasn't off the back, but felt awful. The course was awesome and much of it was above 10,000'. Tough breathing! There were 3 major climbs: 2 service road climbs and 1 single track climb. The singletrack climb was much more enjoyable than the service roads for sure-- and even better than all the climbing: the descents! Descending was gnarly-fast, and it is where I could pass the ladies (and some guys) that passed me on the climbs! Rocks, roots, switchback-craziness. FUN!!! I can't wait to head back to the mountains! The mountain photo is one of the views from our drive back to Boulder from Winter Park. Vaaaarrrrriiieeeee NICE!
Midwest mtb racing: climb, descend, climb climb, descend, climb descend, descend, climb
Mountain West racing: climbclimbclimbclimbclimb, descenddescneddescenddescend, climbclimbclimbclimb, descend, climbclimb, descend descend descend descend drop descend descend.
On our way back down from the mountains, I couldn't resist from stopping to build a mini-snowman. Clare sat in the car because she "couldn't be bothered" to get out... even though she has NEVER made one in her life. ever. Alas, I think I'll try to make a snowman every month of the year from now on. Some people try to ski every month... I'll just stick to making snowmen.

That brings us today. While I had a turbulent morning, it ended really well. I had a rest day (easy ride to the grocery) and Clare didn't return until 2 from her epic voyage on the peak-to-peak. Soon after her return, we headed to Chipoltle for a burrito. AND what is better than a chipoltle burrito? A FREE chipoltle burrito! Thanks Garrett!

While at "chi-poodle," we met up with a cycling friend, Robbie, by chance-- He also stopped to chow and the was heading down to the Eben G. Fine park to hang in the creek. Sounded fun to us- I had never gone to chill in the park.
Clare is definitely enjoying her time in the grass!
I am contemplating jumping in, unfortunately, the sun had gone behind a huge cloud for sometime and it wasn't as HOT out... so I just chilled the legs.

In the park, you'll run into some strange folks! Here's Robbie- trying desperately to walk on his hands... he was inspired by a woman who had actually been doing yoga-stands on her hands and arms. Impressive!

Cheers to fun days and more to come!!! Can't wait for more barbecues and more times hanging at G.Fine Park.

tutu.

Bouldericious.

2008-06-28T18:58:00.000-07:00

I have had a stellar day in Boulder! No bike shoppe until next Wednesday... so that means... tons of riding and getting things organized!!! I'm pretty excited. For sure. Today Clare and I got in a nice ride- we took a road that led us to the bustling metropoli of Lyons, Ramond, Allenspark and Estes Park. The day couldn't have been better.

For the past couple hours, I have been getting ye'ole Fuel race ready for tomorrow. It has been my trusty steed for about 5 years-- although now that I'm in the mtns, I really need some disc brakes. I'm planning for a full-on forearm workout tomorrow! WinterPark is hosting a mtb race-- I've never been to Winter Park AND I've never raced my mtn bike in Colorado, so it should be interesting! I'll take some photos. for sure.

Okay. So now that I've been done working on my bike, I've been chillin' out on the patio with Jerry our delightful domesticated deer . In the photo he is about 20 yards from me... and at the moment, he is being harassed by some neighborhood kids. Poor Jerry. He's getting bothered and I'm sipping on a glass of wine, computing, with my feet up during a perfect evening! Anyhow... I keep hearing from multiple people that "there are NO mosquitoes in Colorado." Well. They are all wrong.

I found one latched on to my shoulder. Don't worry. I killed it. NOW there are NO mosquitoes in Colorado. This one is probably an invasive species that came to CO with my luggage from last week in Wisconsin. Thank God it wasn't full grown. (wishful thinking?)!!

Until tomorrow.

~~tt

If you've ever wondered what goes on...

2008-06-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

At our host house in Minnesota for Nature Valley, we were pleased to find a sweet collection of wigs. You can tell that Clare wishes it was still 1982 so she could rock out with Whitesnake and sing "here I go again" at the top of her lungs.

Here am I before our race in Sheboygan... I was riding around trying to find amenities and I ended up getting a flat. I had 9 aluminum shards in my back wheel and 3 in the front. Seriously. Don't ride around construction sites.
Here is Cari- this is after the race in Sheboygan- She is shown here AFTER I untangled her sports bra and this tank top. It was almost tragic... and she could have possibly been arrested. Thank goodness she wasn't.
Finally, here is a picture of me pondering WHY my helmet is always on crooked. If there is anything more frustrating I don't know what is. For some reason, it always falls to the left. Is my head crooked? Who knows. The helmet never stays adjusted right. Cari will just keep reminding me to straighten it. :) thanks Cari.

We had a fun weekend- the 'giro de Grafton' was an excellent event it was a fun and active race-- lots of attacking, covering, and countering-- At Sheboygan I was in a break with 4 other girls-- Kristin Wentworth, Rachel Eichers, a girl who was the collegiate national champ and another girl who was super strong. Cari Clare and Anna did a stellar job of letting us get away. For the final lap, I came around the corner in 2nd-- a couple girls sprinted around me with plenty of time to get on their wheels-- unfortunately I was way over geared and I didn't have the snap to recover. This week: practice leadouts. :)

tutu. k

Alert...

2008-06-24T18:49:00.000-07:00

Clare doesn't really drink clam juice... but she does like to eat bison occasionally.

Hangin' in P-ville & recaps from the weekend

2008-06-17T11:40:00.000-07:00

Meet my Pa! He came to the race in Stillwater on Father's Day- I do wish I would have been racing, however it was nice to hang out with him!

Here is my new t-shirt. I thought Cari would like this one-- it is a nice new white tee! :) Since I'm planning on being really eccentric when I'm 50, I figured I need to start wearing something other than plain tees... I'm beginning to branch out. Tweet.

For all of you who didn't know, Clare is primarily sponsored by Clam Juice and presented by Bison. Yes. Bison meat. Ever since she has made the switch to Clam and Bison, she has become faster. We believe it is the rare electrolytes and minerals in the clam juice that expedites the delivery of ADP to the glycolosis that occurs specificly in liver cells.
Okay... so maybe not.

Meet Judson Steinbeck. He is a middle school teacher for a Waldorf School in LaCrosse, WI. He came to ride in Platteville while passing through-- apparently during his first year of teaching, a family of one of his students talked Judd into taking a rabbit for his classroom. He obliged becasue the family promised to take the bunny for all holidays AND buy the bunny's food. After thanksgiving of the FIRST year he had the bunny the family sent a NOTE with the student to school stating that they "couldn't take the bunny home for any more holidays." Now Judd and Joy own a bunny AND buys all of the food for it. **Note to self... if an offer comes from a student/student's family with some sort of pet.... don't take the rabbit!!

Finally--- Here is a photo of our back patio in Boulder. Again... absolutly Amazing-- I'm looking forward to hosting some evenings w/ evening beverages. Thanks for reading-- HI MOM!

tutu,

Stages 2-4

2008-06-14T06:16:00.000-07:00

All things considered... this year's Nature Valley went much better than last year's Nature Valley. You may not remember, but last year I raced my first criterium (ever) in March of '07 and within a couple months upgraded enough to go to Nature Valley with my team. Turns out, my first 5 day stage race lasted 18 minutes and it isn't because I'm just that fast. Anyhow I made it until the 4 stage this year- I'll give a brief rundown of this years events...

Stage 1: St Paul Criterium. Rain and carnage. Everyone started the next day.

Stage 2: Cannon Falls Road Race. I had a good starting position and was moving up ever so slightly... and then we crossed a wooden bridge... and then... everyone stopped and we were directed to turn around. Within a half mile from the start, the comm 1 car took us the wrong direction. So, the people in the back were now in the front and vice versa. For me, bummer! All that good momentum was lost. Anyhow, the "neutral" start was anything but neutral. I think my HR was about 240* for the neutral start. There was more confusion when we took our first left turn- the lead moto ref went on the left side of the median and the lead car went on the right. Clare burned up her matches hauling herself up on the other side of the median.

*I'm exaggerating, the highest I have ever seen my heart rate is 187-- actually a new high for me this week.

The first Queen of the Mountain (QoM) was soon after the first turn and the pace was high. Maybe I didn't get a good enough warm up or whatever... but I found myself dangling... and then passed by the moto ref, then passed by comm 1, and then passed by team car and team car and team car... you get the point. I was fading and working really hard to get back to the group. I could see that it would be so much easier up there! Next thing I knew, I was by myself-- but I could see Clare just up the road, so I chased her for a couple miles. I beat her up for the 2nd QoM and we worked to catch 2 more riders (just so you all know that is a joke, by this time-- no one was even at the QoM line). I didn't realize, but there was a group of about 12 right behind us. I know it may sound crazy, but I was relieved to see that I wasn't DFL. We were fairly organized and things were going well- I thought. Our "chase group" was smooth for the most part, although we did have a couple surgy susans in our group. All in all, it was nice to race through the country side in MN-- kind of like being home. yah.

The stage finished w/ a 5 lap circuit that I was able to watch. Cari hung in strong and did well, finishing just a couple minutes behind the main field. Tina Pic came away with the win-- check out her credentials.

Stage 3: Time Trial
An approximate 6- mile time trial- out and back course with a steep hill tacked on to the end. Not that I am GREAT at time trialing, but I am beginning to enjoy this event. Among some of the teams I think there was some confusion with the rules. They were time cutting at 125% of the winners time. Translation: anyone who came in with times above 125% of the winner's time was to be cut. Some riders chose or were told to "roll" it and ended up getting cut. Bummer for them. Kristin Armstrong won the time trail by 42 seconds-- she finished with a smokin' time of 13'44" and second place was 14'26". HUGE win, especially over a such a short course. I finished in the top 88 of 123 and didn't get cut-- Clare top 71, Cari top 64.

Stage 4: Minneapolis Criterium
Second race of the day (TT was that morning)- I felt good, excited and ready to race. But, for me a series of unfortunate events unraveled infront of me and I was cut from the race early. Bummer. Here's went down.
1. Staging. We were planning on staging 15 mins before the race, we got to the start 20 mins before the race and everyone was there. We had to start in the back.
2. Kristin Armstrong sat at the front for the first 8 laps and drove the pace at the beginning- super fast. The field was completely strung out the entire time I was in the race.
3. I'm learning to be aggressive.
4. The back of the field was beginning to gap and I was moving up one by one clawing my way back to the main field. The girl in front of me almost crashed in a corner when we were very close to closing the gap. I had to slam on my breaks to avoid running her over. The thought of actually crashing went through my mind... crash and a free lap or being done. At that point we had a group of about 4 and we were working to get back on, but we couldn't recover from that gap that had just formed.

I was pulled, along with 5 others. I was pretty bummed. I know that pace was hottt for a long time and the teams are stacked with world-class riders-- It is still tough not be able to hang in. Clare almost made it to the end until she detonated... Cari hung in until the end and finished with the field!

Gabe and his friend Mike came to watch last night and I was able to get a bite to eat with him after the race.

For me, that is it for Nature Valley 2008... until next year... 3rd time is a charm???? The girls race today in Mankato, an 86-mile road race-- and Sunday for the Stillwater Criterium. Today, instead of the RR, I am pretty sure Missy is going to send me out on a ride to get some miles!

Getting to MN and Nature Valley Stage 1-- St. Paul Crit

2008-06-12T07:43:00.000-07:00

So here it goes...
Tuesday we made our pilgrimage to the bus station. $20 will get you a round trip bus ticket to Denver International Airport. The plan was to drop Missy off at the station and I went to drop my car off and walk to the station.
12:06 I drop her off
12:09 I drop my car off at Greg and Cari's, begin walking to the bus station
12:13 realize I left my phone somewhere, turn around ad RUN back to my car--
12:15 not in the car, but on Cari's counter top... As I got in the phone was ringing. Missy was stalling the bus driver. I thought the bus left at 12:30... but It actually was supposed to leave at 12:15. One thing we forgot to discuss before hand.
12:16 Bus is waiting for me. I start sprinting (with my heavy backpack & my helmet flopping about) back down towards Pearl Street, three blocks down, I realize that I still have the KEY to Greg and Cari's in my hand. Turn around. RUN BACK UP 16TH STREET. AND BACK DOWN.
12:20 After sprinting around downtown Boulder I found Missy @ the bus stop, on the curb, with no bus. Bummer. No worries though, the next bus would get us to the airport in time, but not with a lot of extra time.

Making a long story short, I flew Frontier- probably the worst flight ever. I sat in the last row (no reclining seats). Next to me was a Mom a 5 year old and a 1 year old sitting in 2 seats-- the row across from me, a mom and two kids. Screeching and screaming. Anyhow, I felt bad for the moms having to travel by themselves. But get this, 15 mins left for the flight the little girl starts yelling for her daddy... who was sitting across the aisle and two rows up. WTF. That is all I have to say!
_________________________________

Nature Valley Stage #1: St. Paul Criterium

It was wet, the weather forecast was dismal. It was pouring for much of the day, and then let up around 3 when we pulled in to downtown St. Paul. I had made some sort of comment to someone about how it is nice that the volunteers don't have to set up the race course in the rain.... 20 mins later it poured.

My dad, Phyllis and Jen showed up to watch the race! It was great to see them and I wish there was more time to hang out with them. I got a good warm up in and all the ladies started the race in pouring rain. Right away the race strung out and people were slamming their breaks for the second corner (a decent going into an off-cambered left turn). The tight course was 1.1 km with 150 racers on it. Needless to say, it didn't take long for the front riders to begin lap the riders off the back. It was a cluster. I raced for about a half an hour and then was told that our group had 1 more lap. On my last lap, I went down on the 3rd corner. I slid out and slid across the pavement-- an easy crash really- except for my elbow and my 2-day-old bar tape! On the same corner people were crashing at least every other lap. It was carnage! crazy! Everyone is starting the road race tonight.

For some photos: http://www.minnbikefestival.com/Gallery/Photos/tabid/111/Default.aspx

The officials ended up cancelling the men's race after a moto ref went down in one of the corners.

Stay tuned for 5 more stages!

Friday + new apt video

2008-06-06T22:11:00.000-07:00

Okay, so here it is. Friday. I woke up and "unpacked" for an hour. Went to work... doughnuts and coffee.... or just coffee for me. Anyhow, we had our specailized rep in town to tell us all about the FSR mtn bikes and HOW cool they are and all of the "kool-aid" to go with it. At u-bikes, we call most techy garbage Kool-aid. It is good to know, but most customers won't understand a lick once you start even mentioning the word "components." So mentioning the horst link, the brain, rebound, sag.... and others can make for once confusing conversation.

Anyhow after that I prepped to go on one epic solo voyage. I left at noon- rode from Boulder to Lyons, Raymond, Riverside, Ward, Nederland and back to Boulder. This ride took about 5.5 hours and was absolutely gorgeous. I wish I had my camera. I was going to pack it, but was out of space. For this ride, food was more important. Once I was up in Raymond (after about a 20 mile climb...) I was riding on the Peak to Peak hwy. This is a beautiful road. At one point, a car quickly pulled to the side of the road and the driver jumped out w/ thier camera.... I thought I had better smile, because they were taking a photo right of me coming up the hill. I looked over my shoulder, and there was longs peak. Absolutely beautiful. I can't wait until Gabe and I climb it later this summer/fall.

I finished up my evening w/ a well deserved shower and a crappy dinner. The best part of the night was Missy, Kris and Craig coming over for adult beverages! oh! and my phone conversation with Gabe. It is so nice to be able to host people now!

"Happy Thursday"

2008-06-06T06:48:00.000-07:00

Even though it is Friday, I need to tell about some adventures yesterday. I had the alarm set for 6 so I could get my ride and efforts in before going to work. Unfortunately, I awoke to more RAIN! So needless to say, it was easy to hit the snooze... or actually just turn the alarm off. I worked from 10-7 at the bike shop.

Here's something that tends to be common in Boulder (the bubble that is 20sq. miles surrounded by reality). A gentleman and his wife came in the shop yesterday at about 5:45. I began talking to the wife as Catherine was showing the guy some sweet carbon road bikes. Turns out he was planning on going on a ride the next day (which happens to be today) to Jamestown, so he 'needed' a new, light bike.

So, I stood to the side and cracked jokes with his wife, while he test rode some bikes, both $4000, both sweet. I left Cathererine with the couple to go dust some bikes (or something to that effect). Next think I notice.... she has him test riding a specialized s-works... which retails for about $5200. The guy is going on a 30 mile ride. He isn't winning the Giro! He bought the S-Works. Crazy! Most importantly, the guy is super happy and loving his bike! I'm sure it will help him beat his friends to Jamestown.

So after work, I busted home, changed and ran out of the house to get my workout in. All things were successful, only thing is that I was coming home in the dark. I brought my back light so I was safe (don't worry Mom). I took the Boulder Creek path all the way home when it was almost completely dark. I have to say, I was smiling the entire time. This multi use path winds along Boulder creek under all major roads and past numerous parks. I happened to meet up with some people who were on the Thursday Night cruiser ride. They dress up their bikes, turn on their boomboxes, and cruise the town shouting "Happppppy Thursday!"! It was great. So the last crazy cruiser I saw was a guy in costume riding a 3-wheel bike. he had something in the back basket (stereo?), tiki torches (lit) on either side of the basket, and a green light underneath his bike... throwing out some sweet ground effects. Mind you it was completely dark, so all I saw was green ground effects and tiki torches. I passed him and told him that his bike was the best bike I had ever seen. He laughed.

New PL-ACE

2008-06-04T07:36:00.000-07:00

We got back from Tulsa, OK on Monday and I was able to get all of our stuff moved into our new place! The new place is beautiful- in an excellent neighborhood with cool people and a Trail that takes you down to Pearl Street-- in 3 mins. And I'm happy to report that the ride back up doesn't' take that long either.

It is considered a studio apartment because it doesn't have a door on the bedroom, but it is definitely big enough-- plenty of storage, a nice secluded patio, newly remodeled, bamboo floors, and a sweet bathroom. I am already enjoying it! My things are still in boxes in the middle of the floor, but I figured I'd take my time unpacking!

As for Tulsa, it was a good weekend for the team. Overall , we didn't take home any wins, but for us I feel like we worked well together and learned a lot AND had fun! The community of Tulsa really pulled through to run the race on Sunday. They had a crazy storm come through-- knocking down power lines, trees that closed roads-- all in the middle of the day on Sunday. They cancelled the races before ours and worked together to get the pro races going! How awesome. Thanks Tulsa!!!! Tulsa update Coming soon w/ photos!

8 day hiatus from the internet...

2008-05-26T21:55:00.000-07:00

What began as a 3 night 2 day visit with Gabe, turned into a week long escapade through the Colroado Plateau! Since Gabe was/is a faculty member on 'The Western Field Trip' from UWP, we planned on meeting up to hang out for a few nights while he was in my neck of the woods. It just made sense! I requested the days off of work when he was slated to be near Boulder and then was planning on heading to Moab with the class (20 students and 3 faculty). Turned out that I wasn't scheduled to work the entire week. I made one last call to be sure that I wasn't scheduled to work and the plans were set. With some logistical support and ideas from Cari, my week was set perfectly... Moab Monday-Wednesday, travel to Zion National Park, stay until Saturday morning, travel back to CO-- Durango-- just in time for the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic Crit on Sunday.

Since I was only planning on being gone for 2 days, I didn't bring my computer. Weird for me. No e-mail for 9 days. crazy... and honestly, I didn't have too much to catch up on when I got back.

The week was great. I packed my bike, a bouldering pad (from Missy's sis Kris), and a couple changes of clothes. I got my workouts in and Gabe and I were able to spend some excellent time together driving through CO and UT AND gallivanting through some of the most beautiful scenery in the US. Here are some photos to document the weekend...

Golden Gate Canyon State Park-- Beautiful, yes... but it took me about 3 hours to get figure out where they were camping! When in doubt... jump the locked gate and walk back to the campsites... just to make sure that your party isn't there. In my case they were and it took me an extra 2 hours to get back to the correct place!
Gabe lecturing in Professor Valley outside of Moab- he was actually doing a talk about climbing Castleton Tower and also about the rock that is found in the Moab area.

We were taking a break from bouldering. I actually worked (climbed) two problems... attempted about 5. Then I was tired. You can tell that he is absolutely as thrilled as I was about the prickly pear flowers. Believe it or not, they opened while we were bouldering at Big Bend.
Zion National Park. We hoofed it across this stream (the Virgin River) that is running at full capacity to get to the other side so we could hike the approach to a climbing route. The stream was cold. very cold.

My head is covering the 'mittens' of Monument Valley in northern Arizona. When i busted across Southern Utah and Northern AZ to get to Durango-- I saw the Glen Canyon Dam, Lake Powell, Monument Valley, some really seedy gas stations and many roads with no services for miles.

The race in Durango was tough! It started fast from the gun. What I have been learning is that I do only have a book of matches to burn... not a box. I'm learning my limits and when and how hard and how long I can go. Tough lessons, but good ones. Watch for more photos.

Check out this collection...

2008-05-14T22:01:00.000-07:00

Just think of what happens over the years if you tell someone you like "frogs" or "giraffes" of "snowmen." Don't be a hector collector. At least I can put my entire spoon collection into a shoebox.... if you need to know more about the frog collection, feel free to e-mail me.

The Hurley-- where everyone should go... or not.

2008-05-11T21:35:00.001-07:00

So I made it back from Gila. I have much to report from that week, but that will come in a post following this one! It is much too late to provoke such thoughts about the Tour de Gila this evening... But I need to let you all in on a couple sweet photos.

First of all, when we were in NM we didn't stay in Silver City, we stayed in Hurley. Now for all those wisconsinites, who are reading... we all know that Hurley is where hwy 51 ends and the fun begins. It just so happens that Hurley, WI is on the border of Da U.P. (the upper peninsula of Michigan)-- AND the reason why it is where fun begins is because the last establishment in Wisconsin on Hwy 51 happens to be Shooters Strip Club... So wouldn't you know that I had a few chuckles when I saw the Hurley Bar.

Missy and I did some investigation one night to see what this place was like-- we had no idea of what to expect. I may have built this story up to be some crazy story-- but it wasn't. We met a friendly bartender who insisted on "frying me up beans" she kept asking me what kind of beans I wanted... of course, I didn't understand- and asked a few questions. Come to find out she just wanted to know what to pour me. It was a short lived escapade and we found no prospects in the Hurley Bar for Missy.

What we did find for Missy was this guy-- unfortunately he had just left an hour before we arrived-- he had stopped by the pub in Silver City to drop off his photo. Missy says she likes the photo of his bike the best... right... sure you do Missy!!**

My cool bike shop job is paying me for 2 hours tomorrow to GO mountain biking on demo bikes this week! I'll be testing a Specialized Stumpjumper tomorrow and two different treks this coming Thursday and Friday.

As far as racing goes, the Cowgirls will make an appearance at a couple local crits this weekend in Denver and in Longmont.

FYI This is actually a photo of a photo at a local brewery in Silver City.
We just thought it was hilariously gross! Sorry if you're offended... I know its risque...

Gila... rar!!!

2008-04-30T04:48:00.000-07:00

We're at the tour of the Gila in New Mexico all week! Check out the website and/or Race Bible.

http://www.tourofthegila.com

~~

kate

Meet Bernie.

2008-04-24T21:19:00.000-07:00

Meeemmmmmmorrrrieeeeeesssss....
Photo from the archive--

This is from the Cowgirl ride in Madison a few weeks ago- Gabe and his bro joined us for the ride from Madison to New Glarus. Classic photo- Gabe looks like he just finished a shot of espresso... and I'm, well, probably talking. It was a good day, but we were all glad to get back to the arboretum. AND I'll be glad when Gabe gets himself to Colorado! :)

OK>>>> fast forward to now.

I work for Joan and Bernie in their yard. Remember the sunburn? Well, Greg (Cari's husband) emailed me a photo of Bernie. Take one look and you'll see that he is wise. A retired dept. head of psychology department at CU. Yep-- it's a bronze sculpture of his head w/ his glasses on it. His hat was made for Greg by Joan, it has rottweilers on it.

If you're wondering, my sunburn hasn't peeled yet, so I trust that I just won't blister and it will turn into a sweet, sweet tan. Maaaaarumph!

Here is another sweet shot of the track yesterday--- It is steep! But not as steep as the one that will be built in Boulder County. This track in Colorado Springs has '33 degree' banking and the track that is going to be in Boulder Cty is going to have about a 48 degree bank... or grade... all we'll say is yah. that is steep. damn.

Remember in life... "when in doubt, string it out"

Quick photo from tonight at the bike shop. We closed at 7 pm... and that is when it gets crazy! Not too crazy... it is just that the guys pump some rockin' metal and work really fast. You can't tell really, but there are 6 stands that you can see in addition to about 5 others stashed throughout the shop. Big store-- I even had a couple bike sales today! party on.

I showed up to Cari and Greg's house about an hour ago. Bowl'o'pasta waiting for me, Cari watching Grey's Anatomy and Greg watching stupid videos on the internet....waiting to read this blog. Anyhow, much is happening, big day tomorrow! Only 3 hours left to be 26. I should probably go do something crazy. hmm...

Just another day at the track... or my first one...

2008-04-23T19:30:00.000-07:00

Here is the track bike-- a Specialized Langster. It is actually a bike that was made for the national team- and it was a fun ride! Now if you'll notice, this bike has no breaks OR gears... and a lesson for my mom-- When the back wheel turns the crank arms do too... if you go fast on a bike like this, your legs go fast too... if you want to slow down, you have to slow your pedal stroke! This was my first day on the track AND my first time trying a 'fixie.' And I guess you'd say that I'm addicted already...

Here is the locker room that we used-- I definitely felt like I had some special treatment! Thanks to Cari and Greg.
Track bike storage! This is where we dropped off the Langster after my maiden voyage AND you can see Cari's pink Tiemeyer.

Here's Cari after working on the tandem with Karissa--another GREAT facial expression. :) Miss Clare is wrappppped to get on the track. finally.
Serious track face.
Greg- the guy who waited patiently for us this morning... as we were running BST (biker standard time)... our lateness made the three of us right on time for the worst grid-lock traffic I have ever seen. ever. gotta love Denver.

Thanks again to Greg for making my first track day impeccable.

And a little pic of us on the track! Mucho fun. It doesn't look that scary... but the turns are banked quite high- we may have more photos from Cari's camera.

Tomorrow is a special day... only one more day to be 26. hmm...

New Job, sunburn and a mtn bike ride that rocked!!!!

2008-04-22T21:24:00.000-07:00

Today, I started helping Joan and Bernie in their yard today. I cleaned a couple beds and pruned some trees. A lot of raking and pruning.... pulling grass, etc. They are quite the couple- truly fun to be around and I think I'll have a lot to learn from both of them! The interesting fact is that Joanie actually officiated Cari and Greg's wedding in the mountains! How cool is that!? I'll be introducing you all to Marvin who is actually a statue that resides in their garden...he has lived in Boulder, Hawaii and then was shipped back to Boulder... hmm...

Well, I thought I'd share a photo with you all... I was just reminded of a place on my body that has not seen the sun yet... my lower back! While at work, I spent a large majority of my time with my back side towards the sun and needless to say, I forgot to put sunscreen on my back. OUCH. You can see for yourself! It does look bad, but no worries, I think it is much worse than it looks.

After working at J & B's, I met up with Missy and Greg for a sweet mountain bike ride. We rode up some dirt mountain roads-- they could be compared to Iowa's level B roads... if you've ever been on them. Anyhow, we specifically rode up the long grueling way up to the top, we didn't have time to do the Betasso loop, so we basically rode up to ride down... The ride down was fun though. Lots of rattling and banging on rocks and roots! My kind of riding. Although, I must say that I will miss the singletrack back in Wisco and Iowa.

Good night all... be prepared for the post of my lifetime tomorrow! It will be Kate Ross: visits the velodrome OR picks up another hobby OR needs another bike. Who knows!

good night all.

Snake Alley...and FRANKIE!

2008-04-18T20:08:00.000-07:00

Upon talking to Leda--- Snake alley came up. So I searched for snake alley and a video came up. What a great way to show her the crazienessss of snake alley. We watched a couple and we all definitely groaned at the thought of climbing. The second video we watched was done by www.missingsaddle.com . Funny. So this is what we saw-- Frankie Dierking! Anna! Have you seen this?

Watch and laugh! (but be warned... they do drop an f-bomb or two...)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sRcjrPeme8&NR=1

A week since the last post?? what!?

2008-04-18T07:35:00.001-07:00

From hearing from a few people... the University Bikes webcam has been a hit! I received an email from my dad today saying that he could see me on the web-- lets hope I was working! :)

Today WAS an excellent day at work. I am in the middle of taking my written 'mountain bike test' and am actually having a hard time with it. To be honest, I haven't really paid attention to the techy mountain bike stuff and now... I'm 5-6 years behind my high-end mtn bike knowledge-And there is a lot to learn. Here it is: you have Horst links, ABP, G2 geometry, hydraulic disc brakes (w/ different types of oils...), float technology.... I don't know!!! WSD, FSR, ABP, EX8, EX7... All I know is that I am behind and I am learning a lot.Basically, working and training... that is about it.

Last Sunday, Clare and I set out on a wonderful adventure- to Estes Park. The ride ended up being 90 miles and was very beautiful. We climbed 9,685' feet and my garmin said that I burnt 4932 calories. (That is either 3.72 large chocolate malts from DQ OR 8.56 Big Macs). It was a beautiful ride with excellent views. The next time, clare and I go we will stop at The Stanley Hotel- the very hotel that the Shining was filmed... and we'll also take a ghost tour.

Clare doesn't know about this yet, but that's okay.

She'll just have to be scared!!!

redrum... redrum...

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

Warm-up music.

2008-04-11T20:49:00.001-07:00

I have had a realization. While at Illegal Pete's (a hip burrito joint) for dinner with Greg and Missy, Rage Against the Machine began pumping over their pretty sweet sound system in the restaurant. A bit edgy, yes... but it got me all pumped up! It made me think of when I saw them in Chicago (probably 8-9 years ago), and to put it plainly THIS is what I need to listen to before races!

This is embarrassing, but I'll put it out there...
the current warm up mix:
Gotta Get Thru This- Daniel Bedingfield
everyday people- arrested development
beercan- beck
devil's haircut-beck
Everybody wake up- dave matthew's band
Rodeo-g-love and jack johnson
unknown track - g.love
Doublewide- galactic
Ronin- J. Davis Trio
LDN- Lilly Allen
Smile- Lily allen
I've committed murder-macy gray
life i chose for me- nappy roots
track 1- slightly stupid
runnin' with the gun- slightly stupid

New warm up mix (well not quite yet):

Rage Against the Machine x 100

done.

This week was pretty eventful! I worked for about 2 days- it is really great to get working again- especially in such a hip place... which is located in an even hipper place. Here, I'm working tomorrow, so if you check at the right time, you just may be able to see ME at work. Check the instore web cam:
http://ubikes.com/page.cfm?PageID=42

And outside of the store:
http://ubikes.com/page.cfm?PageID=41

And check the MTNs:
http://ubikes.com/page.cfm?PageID=214

For the weekend, Clare and I will be riding up to Estes Park on Sunday! I think she is even making me cookies for our ride. It shall be an excellent all day adventure-- we will be sure to take some photos.
~
ciao. kate.

PS... No matter what... Just know that I NEVER listen to Tom Ashbrook while warming up-- only for my cool down.

Wisco for the Weekend!

2008-04-03T05:24:00.000-07:00

Time to head to Madison for our Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board Photoshoot-- It is always a good time! I mean, who wouldn't want to get their hair and make-up done AND drink vanilla shake AND get a series photos taken of you with a bunch of serious camera equipment!? Oh, AND hang out with some great women! :) I am very excited. Even though I couldn't possibly get more excited... check out the weather for this weekend-- it might even be better than the weather in Boulder, which would be very surprising... but welcomed.

FridayPartlySunnyHi 55°F
FridayNightMostlyCloudyLo 32°F
SaturdayPartlySunnyHi 61°F
SaturdayNightMostlyCloudyLo 41°F
SundayChanceRainHi 58°F

Nice. We can deal with that!
On the list of things to do this weekend:
1. buy cheese curds, so I can bring them back and make more friends in Colorado
2. have a many glasses of coffee & vino with Rebecca
3. wear as much blaze orange as possible...

4. try NOT to snuggle with Clare...

5. AND have plenty of cowgirl funtime time!

6. Give Missy an immersion course on Wisconsin Beer. (and cheese curds)

time to pack...

Lee Hill & Jamestown delight!

2008-04-01T22:11:00.000-07:00

Who knew. Clare, Leda, Greg (team mom) and I went on a great ride today- Up Lee Hill and down the back side, up to Jamestown and back into Boulder. The assignment 4-5 hrs today. All of us but Greg are supposed to ride in the hills today! So we did. Lee Hill was a pretty steep, long climb. I felt like I slogged up the thing, but Greg was convinced I wasn't working hard simply because I can still look and appreciate rock formations as I am riding... whatever... I was convinced I started going cross-eyed. And besides... who doesn't get excited when they see a great example of exfoliation?

When it came time, Leda, Clare and I departed from Greg and headed up to Jamestown- he had to go do sprints in the 'warmer areas'. We began our climb. It really wasn't too cold until we actually got to Jamestown and quit climbing. Clare and I decided we would ride up past Jamestown for a little while, as did Leda. We decided we would meet at the top, however Clare and I began to get really cold... so we turned around, and hoped that Leda's hands would be okay. When we got back to Jamestown, I went in this cafe and picked up these magazines to put under our jerseys. I couldn't believe how warm they kept us. I definitely couldn't feel my hands for the next 1.5 hrs, but our cores were kept warm by the peak to peak restaurant guide! Thanks to all who advertised in this free guide... it kept us warm and probably saved us from hypothermia! Clare will be the first to tell you that it was a bloody cold descent back into Boulder. We were surly destined to stop in at Amante for some tea and a latte so we could warm up.

Back to tucson weekend. Here are a couple funny things that happened...

This guy IS actually warming up in the back of his pickup with a spin/exercise bike. For real. This was the warmup for the Circuit race on Sunday.. you'll never believe this, but he actually had the bike dropped off at the start of the Time Trial course on Friday. I wonder if he actually ot THAT great of a warm up!? Hmmm......

For this next photo.... I do not need to say anything more. This photo is for all of my Wisconsin home slices. Cheers to your next Pabst.

And last but not least... here is Cari... If you notice, she has something STUCK to her hand. It is literally stuck. She tried to put it down but it wouldn't allow itself to be set down. I don't know what she will do, I am worried about her hand getting sore from holding it.

:) Good night all!

Back in Hayward.... + report from Tucson

2008-03-28T20:51:00.000-07:00

While I'm in Tucson--- My neice Nikki, my cuzzzz Sara (+fetus), and her husband are enjoying a warm spring day... check out 3 things...

1-- the blaze orange gloves...

2-- snow + grill

3-- the packer attire

Welcome to Hayward! :)

The TT went pretty well today. The four of us ended up in the top 10: 4-Cari, 5-Leda, 8-Clare and 10- me. I am pretty happy with my results- the course was very short with a nice downhill start, a couple rollers, a slogging incline, a couple rollers and a decent climb to the finish. I did manage to throw my chain, but it didn't hinder me too much (although it probably affected the finish). The RR is tomorrow morning at YES.... 6:30 am. the only good thing about that is the race will be done around 9.

Until then.

KATE. OUT.

Back to Tucson!

2008-03-27T16:30:00.000-07:00

We made it to our host's house last night around 6:30. Apparently Tucson doesn't participate in daylight savings, so going from pac time, to mt. time, to non daylight savings time... to thinking about central time... I have no idea what time it is-- even after one day! Another thing... I don't even remember what day it is. I just need to figure it out by next Wednesday, which happens to be my first day working at http://www.ubikes.com/! oh yeah. :)

The house we are staying in is beautiful, a utopia right in the middle of the city. Our host's have the most amazing succulent plant collection I have ever seen... and I can't wait to start my NEXT plant collection which was almost extinct after the move west. I definitely need more green in my room on Euclid Circle.

Today we prerode the TT course for the weekend's race: http://www.tucsonbicycleclassic.com/ . check it out! I think it will be a fun weekend.

last weekend, this week/weekend coming soon...

2008-03-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

Here is a little something to keep you occupied until I can write more. Gabe was in town this week-- we had a great time in UT and CO. The team raced this weekend and I will update more soon. check out our team blog for some good info! www.teamamericasdairyland.blogspot.com

WATCH THIS:It is the last corner of the crit in Visalia. About 20+ riders hit the pavement. ouch. You'll even see a nice close up of Clare picking herself up after a hard hit to the pavement.

http://ibnsports.com/cycling.asp

ciao... off to climb up to Ward.

Visalia!!! My weekend report, two weeks late.

2008-03-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

Sequoia
At Sequoia this weekend, the fields were stacked—the announcer summed it up nicely by saying “this is the strongest field we’ve seen in a long time.” With a good chunk of money at stake, many national and world champions showed up ready to throw down.

Time Trial
A 40k course that took us through some of the most amazing scenery in Central California. Before I get too much into how the race actually went, I’ll tell you all that the green hills/mountains, were blanketed in yellow flowers—it was absolutely amazing! We pre-rode the course so we were able to enjoy it too! Yesterday, we got there early enough to have some time to hang out and prepare for the race- after a decent warm up, my start time was at 1:22. Kristen Armstrong started 2:30 behind me… She ended up passing me after 16 minutes and absolutely killing it. She was 4 min 30 seconds ahead of 2nd place, and would have placed in the top 20 for the men’s race. It was wild, she sounded like a freight train coming up behind me—Anyhow, I rode hard and tried as hard as I could. I definitely tried to keep it positive—it was a very tough course mentally, with two substantial climbs. I finished in the ‘top 50’ (50th), which wasn’t the best; however I need to keep everything in perspective! And keep everything positive! As I mentioned earlier, it was a very strong field and this is my 2nd race of the season.

Crit…
This morning, I felt pretty good. My legs weren’t really hurting, however, I could tell that I worked hard yesterday, but in a good way. I had a nice 40 min warm up on the rollers listening to the band Slightly Stupid. (As dumb as the band name sounds… it is actually pretty cool). Our race was at 1:30 just after a run/walk. We lined up and they did the call up. Needless to say… mistake #1 for me: I moved back when the race promoter asked me to— to make room for the call up. I’m so nice. Anyhow they did the call up and I would be lying if I didn’t tell you all that I was a little impressed at the line up. After that, they allow everyone else to move up towards the start line. Everyone is always crammed in like sardines. The official blew the whistle and we were off. I (and everyone around me) clipped in successfully—and we went for the first corner. Immediately within the first lap, I realized that I was in the back... right where I started. Not just in the back a little… but in the BACK. So I could hear Missy saying “move up… move up.” So I did, in the first few laps, I managed to move up about 10 places and I thought that was good… well it isn’t... mistake #2. I needed to just keep on moving up places. The next thing I knew, I was on the back again. WTF! so I move up again… and then found my self in the back again. Not to mention, I was sprinting around the corners, moving up 1-2 places and then hitting the breaks… sprint, move up 1…. hit the breaks… repeat…. sprint, sprint, move up… hit the breaks… repeat. Sprint, move up, think “I really think that this is not good,” hit the breaks around the corner, sprint out of the corner… get gapped… close the gap… sprint to catch up (no breaking around the corners anymore because I have room not to break…)… close the gap… get gapped… react to the attack that probably happened 20 seconds before…finally get gapped enough for total discouragement… next move: take a right instead of a left! Take a nice cruise through some downtown Visalia neighborhoods… answer some questions about what race is going on … in which I have to answer “the Women’s Pro-1-2” I’m still all geared up and I’m certain that they are wondering why I’m not racing… I find myself going back to see Missy. I did notice that there were 2 other women riding around that should have also been racing… sadly, that makes me feel a bit better… Get the keys. Change and watch the rest of the race. Not the best race today for me, but I will get better, and not make the same mistakes.

The rest of the race was crazy. Clare and Cari were looking very strong and working hard. They both got caught up in a huge crash with 70% of the field involved. Cari’s ran over a couple pretty big bumps and ended up having her seat come loose and point straight up to the sky—I’m positive it was knocked loose from her earlier crash—she went to get it fixed for a free lap and the official wouldn’t let her back in. Total bummer. Clare on the other hand crashed a grand total of 3 times… got back in and STILL finished with the main field (well almost). She was caught up in a massive crash on the very last corner of the last lap and didn’t end up crossing the line. Laura Van Gilder slid out in the corner when she was sitting on the 4th wheel getting ready for her sprint finis—she went down, and since the field was so strung out… it took a while, but I’d say that 25 people there ended up hitting the deck. I found some of the EMS guys to come over and clean Clare up. The guy radioed to the officials that Clare was 2% road rashed. Meaning that 2% of her body is alllll scabbed up. Her nicely healing skin from last week is now scraped up AGAIN, and she is glad that she joined the frequent bandage buyer club at the local drug store.

until later...

Visalia!

2008-03-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

We made it to CA yesterday-- over the past few days, I have been pretty busy-- as normal. My good friend Rachel came to visit me / move out to Boulder. She dropped some things off and will be heading to Indian Creek to do some climbing. We had a fun couple days!

On Thursday, I had a job interview at www.ubikes.com and ended up getting the job! So whenever I get my schedule all ready for scheduling, I can start working. It will be really nice to have a couple extra $$.

Today we're doing the Time Trial at the www.sequoiaclassic.org . Just for the record a time trial is a race against the clock. Each participant starts anywhere 30 secs to 1 min apart-- the racers job: go as hard as possible with out blowing up. The person who finishes the selected course the fastest wins. Today, I start around 1:30pm. Kristin Armstrong (time trial world champ) starts only a couple mins behind me... chances are that I'll probably see her out on the course! The course is absolutely beautiful-- the Central Valley of CA looks a lot like the green hills of Ireland. I'll post some pictures when I get them from Cari!

Check it out, you can even see the start list and he course profile: http://www.sequoiaclassic.org/tt.htm

Wisconsin Needs More Snow!!!

2008-03-11T20:05:00.000-07:00

I just received this photo is from my friend Erica. Erica lives in Platteville and I miss her very much, along with all of my Wisconsinite/Iowan/Illinoisan friends and family. One thing that you all need to know about Erica is that she LOVES to shovel snow! In fact, when I lived by her, I helped her shovel all the time, and then we would drink coffee. She has this HUGE, metal, snow removal device that you push. That is right.... push, it traps all the snow and pushes it out of the way-- just like a zamboni, except without laying down the ice. And if you are wondering, this is not a picture of Erica's yard... but I wouldn't be surprised if you do see an exact replica in her yard after the next snowfall....

Anyhow, this photo is for all those who are suffering.

I am sad to report Boulder's weather for the day:

Temperature for today:

Mean Temperature: 50 °F / 10 °C
Max Temperature: 68 °F / 20 °C
Min Temperature: 33 °F / 1 °C

Although the temperature was excellent, the wind was a little gusty! It was very windy and posed somewhat of a mental struggle for our family ride today with Cari, Greg and Kevin. We had a steady head wind (20 mph with gusts of about 30!)-- after our efforts (prescribed workouts)-- on the way home... back to boulder. It was an excellent ride, but I was happy to get into my LOUNGE pants. For sure.

Babysitting tomorrow morning and then my friend Rachel Melville will be in town for a while. I am pretty sure she is moving to Boulder-- more CO converts. nice. :)

Frostbite/DU Crit

2008-03-10T21:25:00.001-07:00

Saturday-- Frostbite Time Trial. Windy, cold, windy. And Hard. Enough said. For more, go to www.teamamericasdairyland.blogspot.com . :)

Sunday:
Cari picked up Clare and I to head down to Denver’s City Park. It was a nice spring afternoon, but a little on the chilly side. The wind was calm and did not turn out to be a major factor in the race. We lined up at the start/finish (indicated by the white arrow) for the Women’s open race along with about 35-40 other women. The course was interesting with 2 major turns and 3 roundabouts.

Clare wanted to animate the field and just after the first few laps she attacked. After a few more laps the group came back together. This is where the race became a completely different race for me! I found myself working very hard, but moving backwards in the field. I was thinking that ‘I must be unfit!’—or— that I really needed to do more speed work! As we got further into the race, I was beginning to feel more and more sketchy going around the roundabouts… I kept thinking that my tire was going to roll off of the rim! FINALLY, after the 2nd roundabout, I glanced down and realized that my tire was completely flat. Hmm…. no wonder why I felt sketchy in those crazy corners! That is when I leapt off of my bike hoofed it to the wheel pit. If you look at the aerial photo... you will see that it was a long mad dash (through a ton of goose poo)! As I ran up, the announcer was aware that I was coming and was nice enough to explain EXACTLY what I had to do and also EXACTLY what Missy and I were doing to the crowd…. fun to listen to, but kind of distracting… especially when he told everyone to look at how my legs were shaking while I was waiting to get back in the race AND also how bad they must feel after running across the field! Missy had to tell me to calm down J I was pretty excited! Thanks Missy—she’s solid as a rock! Success—we changed the wheel and I got right back in the field.

As soon as I rolled back into the pack, Cari had just attacked. Two other riders were with her—and there was a 3-4 second gap between the break and the field. Since Cari was already in the break, I held up and settled in the front of the field with Clare—now our job was to block, to protect Cari. There were only a couple attempts to bridge the gap, but we stopped them and brought the field back together. With 4 laps to go, I almost got taken out by a rider who ended up crashing pretty bad. She faltered while going around the first round about and I noticed her starting to totter, so I took the corner wide… on her way down, she bumped me in the thigh! I thought I was going to hit the pavement, but safely made it around the next tight corner. phew.

Long story short… Cari played the last lap smart and was patient--- she made the other girl chase down the girl who attacked… Cari stuck on her wheel and took ‘em alllllll at the line. Nice work Cari! The team work was awesome! J

Sequoia is coming up on Saturday and Sunday. Missy, Cari, Clare and I are flying out on Friday morning. Gabe is driving out to Boulder to hang out with some friends for the weekend! He’ll pick me up from the DIA on Monday and we’re heading on a short excursion to visit his Aunt and also some sweet powder!! This will be my first powder ‘out west’ in over 5 years! I’m really looking forward to it…. AND for all those who are wondering, I AM bringing my rollers and Gabe and I have already been looking at a nice route for my long training day on that Wednesday (before we hit the powpow).

Clare--- It's true!!!

2008-03-09T17:50:00.000-07:00

Clare... I know it was hard to believe, but it is true. Your super-secret-cycling-crush has a 16 yr old girlfriend. Bummer. Maybe it will all be over between them when you meet him. :)

(photo obtained from:http://www.vorb.org.nz/ftopicp-1582196.html )

Some inside riding--

2008-03-07T20:36:00.000-08:00

Boulder! 70 degrees one day, 20 the next, snow the other, sunshine today!Congratulations to Clare-- this is her very first time seeing snow in surburbia... so I made her scrape my windows! Thank you Clay (or Clare).
Indoor training at it's best! My new room in the basement of Dr. Dance's house... stay tune for more photos of our basement, and indoor training! Oh yeah.

Last SATURDAY, Clare's first ride in Boulder-- she crashed hard coming down from Ward. The road crews put plenty of gravel/sand on the corners and she took one a little aggressively and had to slam on the breaks... and the bike went right out from under her. OUCH. All I can say is that she is one tough cookie! She is awesome. Stay tuned for pics.... it is nasty. Remember to wear gloves. Safety first.

Tomorrow is the Frostbite Time Trial-- Sunday is the DU crit. fun fun. More updates coming soon!

Catching up! More to follow soon.

2008-03-06T07:39:00.000-08:00

This was my first road ride in CO with the Rocky Mounts crew-- You see me, Jill, Andy C., and Michelle. We returned from Tucson the day before (Friday the 29th) and March 1 ended up being a very warm day with record breaking temps! The next day, it snowed. Our first encounter with unfavorable riding weather.

Again, riding with the crew--- on the left is Greg-- team mom and Cari's husband. Fun ride! After, Greg gave me a bicycling tour of Boulder and the UC-Boulder campus. It was beautiful, and I'm excited to live here!
Meet Amante. Amante is the coffee shop that many rides start at in North Boulder. I don't know the girl in the back of the photo... but it looks like she is posing.

Yesterday March 5 in Boulder, we did our workouts inside and ventured out to run some errands.

This photo is from last night... we went for an evening americano-- and get this... this morning Clare informed me that I bought decaffeinated beans the other day. We have been fooled, and not drinking 'real' coffee in the mornings. Bummer! I thought something was fishy!

Yesterday we went to target to get some towel hooks for the back of our bathroom door and we found these ridiculous pants on the super duper reduced price rack. We figured they were perfect lounge pants. And, after one night, I'm happy to report they are.

Watch Steel Bodingsworth.... NOW.

2008-03-04T21:04:00.000-08:00

After our ride today... I promised Greg (Cari's husband) that I would update my blog. I am all to tired. I will post in the morning, with new pictures! A mini update... Clare and I came back to the house and cooked a bomber meal: steak & salad! Yum. After, we watched Team America... I did have a couple laughs, but after a while, I have to admit I was getting tired and I chose to fall asleep (and I was happy when it was over).

Okay, for those of you who have time for a laugh... watch this. you won't be disappointed... probably about 10 mins. Gabe (the narrator), his bro Ryan (Sherpa), and his friend Weiss (Steel Bodingsworth) made this video not too long ago.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSHbpKIsLhk&feature=email

Let me know what you think of the video! :)

Until tomorrow-- ciao.

~~
k

Tentative TAD Schedule

2008-02-27T23:02:00.000-08:00

Hey all-- here is our schedule as of last week-- It is true that some of our plans can possibly change mid summer, depending on any sort of circumstance that may arise!

Tonight we had dinner with Cari's cousins and her grandmother-- Apparently, it was Clare's birthday!!! It wasn't really, but she totally enjoyed the flan AND the mariachi band!

Tomorrow is my last AZ day-- looking forward to a nice easy 2hr spin and an Arizona Wildcat B-ball game! Cari's Grandma has excellent season tickets (for the past 25 years...). Also, we'll probably have Mexican food for the 4th night in a row! I guess I just can't get sick of it! Too good! :)

Until later...Kate

scroll down for the schedule!

MARCH
15-16 Sequoia Classic Cali
28-30 Tucson Bicycle Classic Tucson, AZ

APRIL
4 Photo Shoot Madison, WI

MAY
April 30-May 4 Gila Silver City, NM
13-18 Mt. Hood Hood River, OR
24 Tour de Leelanau Traverse City, MI
30-1 Tulsa Tough Tulsa, OK

JUNE
11-15 Nature Valley Twin Cities--MN

JULY
21-27 Toona Pensylvania
11-27 Superweek WI, IL
9-13 Cascade Bend, OR

AUGUST
6-11 Road Nats
16-17 Elk Grove/Downers Grove Chicgo area
22-24 Colorado Stage International Cycling Classic Vail, CO
29-31 Green Mtn Stage Race Burlington, VT

Week Wrap-Up

2008-02-27T07:49:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos from last week!

Our up Oracle Hwy-- to the Biosphere 2! Rebecca-Bunny-Missy-Cari-Kate!

Remember Mt. Lemmon? This is only one tiny section of road... but you can imagine the descent--- and the climb. 7,000'+ or climbing for that day. My legs are still burning. Being a flatlander, a 23 mile climb was incomprehensible to me. I was in for a surprise!

We made it to the top and came upon this ski hill. As much as I love skiing, I just couldn't fathom the thought of putting on a pair of sticks to shred the ice sheet that blanketed the top of this mountain! Someday maybe! Interestingly enough, the ski hill at the top of Mt. Lemmon has 425 vertical feet MORE than Chestnut. Weird. Anyhow, I think that Chestnut does have more skiable acres, though...

Here we are! We went for a ride and found that we could get an excellent view of the 17th green at Dove Mountain. Click here to see the final results.
In the photo: Me, Clare, and Cari. and TIGER Woods and Aaron Baddeley.
Here's Tiger...

The last day of the tournament-- We rode over to the course and waited only 8 mins for Tiger to come through! Missy and I watching the action. We had a great view!

Week 3 of our Tucson Excursion.

2008-02-25T06:32:00.000-08:00

I'm hanging out here, Cari just took one load of stuff to her Grandma's house-- which will be our home until Friday! Clare is still sleeping.

Everyone went home, and the 'Boulder Crew' is all that is left in Tucson... Rebecca, Bunny, and Missy-- we miss you already! We had a great week-- 18 hours on the bike, 14,442' of climbing. I think the highlight ride of the week was defiantly climbing Mt. Lemmon (a 24 mile CLIMB, with a rockin descent!). Another more interesting happening was seeing Tiger Woods at the 17th green, twice. We took some photos both time and I will post them soon!

If you're interested in reading another guys version click here.... I found it entertaining.

Until later.

k

Javalena sighting!

2008-02-22T10:30:00.000-08:00

And you think is is bad to have Coyotes running around your house?? What about these things roaming around your condo?!? This makes me think twice about going outside at night to chat on the phone! :)

Yesterday we rode to Biosphere2 It was a perfect ride-- climbing the entire way to the DOME, and descending back into OroValley, working on our pace lining skills. It was excellent!

Our group was at it's maximum size last night: Cari (CO), Missy (CO), Bunny (WV), Rebecca (WI), Clare (AUS/CO), and me! We had an entertaining evening watching Clare talk with her sister through Skype. Clare is going to fit right in. She is great!

You'll probably guess, but there will be more photos put up later today.

All I can say is HOTTT!!

2008-02-19T21:35:00.000-08:00

Here it is. My new ride!!!!!

They are defiantly excellent. Yesterday, Cari, Missy and I bonded with our new bikes by going on a 3 hour ride that lasted 5 hrs... that's right we were bonkin'. The maiden voyage was nothing short of EPIC and EXCELLENT. We even saw Tinker Juarez out on Silverbell Road.

Training Camp Commences!

2008-02-19T20:55:00.000-08:00

Ahhh!!! First of all-- the internet connections have been patchy and THAT is why I haven't been able to keep up with diligent postings.

The weekend wrapped up nicely-- Cari won the crit on Sunday with the help from Betsy G. Perfect lead out gave Cari the chance to take the win! Very cool to see. Hanging out at Valley of the Sun is definately getting me excited to race!

This is Cari being interviewed by team ROCK's own videographer-- He says "so, tell us about how the crit went" Cari says jokingly "Yeah. I won. Sorry TEAM ROCK." She was very joking, but I don't think that he understood her humor!!
Monday, Monday. I went for a nice 2hr ride on a river walk/bike trail that was pretty flat, with relatively no wind... my dad's dream ride! We went to pick up Missy T- our team road manager from the airport. She is a very experienced cyclist and a good coach. She defiantly will be an excellent addition to our team. (and she is hilarious). Our bikes didn't arrive from the UPS guy until 6:30-- after eating we went straight to Cari's uncle's house to pick up a few bikes. We sucessfully put 2 bike boxes and one bike in the back of her wagon... with no room for the 3rd person. It was a long ride back to the condo sitting on Missy's lap, but we did manage to wear our seat belt.

Tuesday is for Totally Epic.

We pieced the bikes together, ate breakfast, and hit the road. The ride itself WAS beautiful-- we set out to ride for 3+ hours-ish... but because of MAP DECEPTION we were foiled. Our ride turned into a 5 hour epic adventure that included 75 miles and not enough food. Bonk we did and we couldn't get back to the condo fast enough. Now we are patiently waiting for Rebecca to show up. She has had a delayed arrival due to the EXTREME weather in Wisco.

enjoy the pics.

Tuesday Morning AFTER "happy new bike day." We enjoyed a nice breakfast. Meet Missy. Our very own Team America's dairyland Road Manager. She really LOVES snow, so that makes me like her aLoT.

The morning deal. This is what I wake up for in the mornin'. And usually it takes me a long time to get it all down!

These three photos are from our 5:30 am excursion! No one could sleep, so we woke up early and dug into our new digs. New sweet kits, hats, stickers... and oh yeah!!! BIKES BIKES BIKES!!! the new WSD 5.1 madones. Check in about an hour for another update with more photos.

Yeah!!

My poor Wisconsin Friends!

2008-02-17T09:29:00.000-08:00

Here it is... the Doppler Radar! All I can say is "bummer." Rebecca was supposed to join us here in Phoenix, however due to the sheet of ice over the entire state; her travel plans have been delayed. Apparently she schlepped all of her stuff to the airport to find that SHE HAD TO GO HOME. Too bad they don't have little airport lockers so she didn't have to haul all of her stuff BACK to her car. Argh. Hopefully she'll be here tomorrow.

Gabe is in a parking lot somewhere waiting for his friend Dusty to pick him up-- they are heading up to Devil's Head to shred the freshies... The snow is super heavy and will probably be like skiing mashed potatoes! Either way they are destined to have a blast in the snow... WET snow.

Cari rocked it yesterday! She ended up 3rd in the road race that she called a "tea party" of a race-- at least for the first lap. My teammate who is a self-proclaimed non-timetrialist AND non-climber-- proved to do well in both the tt AND ended up winning the Queen of the Mountain! She obviously isn't a climber... (yeah right!). Get used to it Cari!! She's a rockstar.

During her 3hr race, I rode for an hour and a half on the hwy near the race (don't worry mom... there was a HUGE shoulder). Although the scenery is pretty-- the road ditches are full of broken bottles, chairs... old nasty blankets, etc. Pretty creepy. I turned on to a road for about a half mile-- the blacktop worsened-- I did a quick u-turn and sprinted back to the hwy!!

More exciting news- I am getting a little more caught up with all of my podcasts-- I converted Cari- so now we can listen to things like Tom Ashbrook, Grammar Girl, This American Life, Fresh Air, etc. I can tell that Cari's favorite show is "It's All Politics"

Talladega Nights...

2008-02-15T21:05:00.000-08:00

Cari and I made it to Phoenix-- it has RAINED most of the day. She is racing Valley of the Sun-- and I'm helping her out. Of course the past couple days have been AWESOME. Riding a lot and enjoying our times. Read the Captions for a better idea of how things have been going.

We rode around 'Star Pass' a resort-esque community near Tucson-- At the end of the ride, we rolled up to an intersection and had to wait for the train to pass-- notice this guy-- no helmet & a nice snot collection happening on the back of his shorts...

Cari's uncle Jeff and aunt Sydney's house decided they needed to get rid of some furniture-- we were all taking bets on how long it would actually sit on the curb. They were right, it didn't sit long and here is the documentation of the last sighting of the love seat... I was found out and the woman who was taking the couch gave me huge smile and waved-- I was mortified... This covert photo operation was obviously not that discrete. bummer. I'll work on that.

We rode in Saguaro National Park East on Thursday-- They have a most excellent 8 mile, one-way loop that is windy and hilly. Riding here felt like a video game-- we didn't really have to worry about car and the foliage (super cacti) came right up to the side of the road. BEAUTIFUL. Because Cari was preparing for the race this weekend, she did one lap and left me to do one more lap and then to ride home.

Although the extra lap was almost as excellent as the first, Cari wasn't there to pull me off of this huge saguaro... some old lady was kind enough to help pull the spines out of my rear. My ride home was good urban riding training! Cari was able to get her bike fixed and I got in a great ride! Mission accomplished! (and no worries, the picture was a staged self-photo and no injuries were incurred while taking it).

That night we went to an Arizona vs. Cal basketball game! 14,200 people packed the arena! it was quite the game. Arizona won.

Bio-lesson #1. Meet the Ocotillo. A desert plant with some sweet modifications. Of course it has a photosynthetic stem (my favorite plant evolutionary feat), but also you'll see that this specific one has leaves that have grown under the spines. With rainfall the plant becomes lush growing small ovate leaves that appear within 24 hrs! CRAZY!!!! Who knew.

Destination Phoenix. The beautiful Desert sky. Just awesome!!!
You can see, Cari is really excited about the time trial. It was cold ~40 degrees and WET. Valley of the Sun Stage race is this weekend and I'll update tomorrow!

Arizona! Finally... a post!

2008-02-13T15:35:00.000-08:00

After a couple EPIC days in beautiful CO, I made it to Arizona for 3 weeks of training. Before I start talking too much about AZ- I just want to give a huge shout out to Rachel, Andrew and Cecilia Couch-- THANK YOU so much for making my first full day in CO amazing. When I pulled in to their house on Saturday night, they had a nice meal prepared-- followed up with great conversations-- and a comfortable bed! On Sunday Rachel and I went Mtn biking just outside of Lyons at Hall Ranch-- REAL mountain biking-- in the MOUNTAINS!! It was pretty cold in the parking lot- but once we got climbing, I was defiantly sweating by the top! We concluded our evening with a nice night out at a Mexican restaurant with our Team Mom: Greg (Cari's husband). It was a delight to meet him too!

Cari picked me up from the Tucson airport at 4 on Monday and we headed to her Uncle and Aunt's house (right in Tucson). It is a great location and a most excellent residence! (more photos to be posted soon...).

Yesterday, Cari and I got out for a nice 65 miler- Vail to Sonoita AZ. Beautiful. This ride included the longest climb AND the longest decent I have ever experienced. The Sonoran desert is beautiful, and the weather is even better. We have been working on our biker tan that I have been patiently waiting for all winter. I have a great line established right across my arm, and I have a feeling it is only going to get better...

Photos from our ride yesterday:

A fiberglass horse at the Denver airport-- I'm sure it is unwrapped by now...

Cari and I FINALLY made it to Sonoita-- Both of were unsure if we would actually make it there!!!
The start of the longest descent I have ever experienced. Santa Rita Mountains!!!

WET Stones.

When we finished our ride on Monday-- this is the first thing we saw--

a few girls rollin' big up to the DQ.

Crazy few days!

2008-02-10T22:10:00.000-08:00

To catch up... will be posting some photos VERY soon.

Wednesday:
Huge snowstorm-- blizzard-like conditions, great day to take a drive to Galena. While I was slogging around in Galena taking care of some business before leaving town and Gabe totally surprised me!! He called and told me to hang tight in Galena- he was on his way WITH my skis/boots/parka/pants/helmet etc. Everything I needed to go skiing! Awesome. We met up and headed to Chestnut. Although it was a treterous voyage, we made it and proceeded to experience the best day skiing in pristine, pure mid-west powder. My favorite memory of the day is totally crashing on one of our first powder runs... I hit the soft powder and slid down the hill a bit. I looked up at the sky while wiping the snow off of my face and glanced over my little snow divot to see Gabe only about 20 ft away doing the exact same thing. Our powder riding skills improved dramatically throughout the day and by the end, I was definitely wiped out!

We made it back to Platteville with hopes to catch the Wundo's Wednesday with Russ and Bethany-- We went to the venue, but ended up taking toooooo long with our dinner! The entire day was excellent! NICE!!!

Thursday: (4th projected moving date)
Due to the check engine light that appeared and also a weird issue with my shifting, I couldn't depart to CO on Thursday-- I took it into the shop and found that it was a sensor that helps my car recognize when to shift. NEXT moving date: Saturday. My part wouldn't be in until the early afternoon.

Friday: found out that the auto guys had an "unfortunate situation." Guy at VW in Madison sent the wrong sensor. My only choice was to go get the part from Madison OR wait until Monday... BUT my AZ flight is on Monday. Bethany was kind enough to take me to Madison-- we did do a teeny bit of shopping too! Car fixed. done. next: Friday night fish fry at St. Mary's church in Platteville. NICE!! (Friday=defiantly my last night). I packed into the late night and ALMOST fit everything into my car. Gabe was kind enough to let me leave a bin in his garage AND he took a trip to the thrift drop off area for me!

Saturday: Drive to COLORADO... Awesome drive, except for the first 45 mins. My car didn't seem fixed at all. Same issues. I stopped for a short while and turned off the car-- restarted that Jetta up... and the issue seemed to resolve itself. THANK GOODNESS!!!
In the 13-14 hr ish drive went by fast and the car seemed to be fine. I arrived at Rachel and Andrew's house in Longmont CO-- just north of Boulder. I walked in the door to see my very own plate with a fillet mignon. YUM. We all chatted for a bit and decided to hit the hay.

Super Tuesday!!!

2008-02-05T20:45:00.000-08:00

Super Tuesday!!! I’ve been watching MSNBC for the past 7 hours and will probably continue to watch for the next few. Interesting things going down- Hillary, Barack, Huckabee, McCain. It is interesting to see everything unfold. My favorite (or actually… least favorite) quote has got to be “TOOOOO close to call.” I guess if they didn’t say that I wouldn’t be hanging on the edge of my seat, waiting for the next bit of ‘breaking news’ to scroll across the bottom of the screen! Another quotable quote has got to be from Bill Richardson, who donned the screen with a full neck beard—saying “The democratic party is gaining more votes from different races, genders, ages, and other ethnic groups.” I know what you were trying to say Bill, but I think it just came out a little awkward!

Tom Brokaw has also made this evening’s political adventure a bit more amusing as well. He can’t seem to get it straight… to put it bluntly, he just seems out of it. I think he just needs some more rest, maybe a vacation or even retirement.

Here is McCain and his ‘lady in red’ addressing the crowd—how do all of these old politicians end up with hot babes? Remember Fred Thompson??? Weird.

Back to me. I packed up quite a bit today, went through a bunch of old bike gear and donated it to my bud Tim at www.MomentumBikes.com . He is fixing up junker bikes to send down to New Orleans- That is awesome Tim—hard work, but will be well worth it to people who need it.

Tomorrow will be filled with running around getting things done! I need to get a new drivers license before I head to CO- The one I have was issued in April of 2000, and 8 years later will expire this coming April. I remember a distinct thought when I received my ‘regular’ license in 2000… “Wow, I’ll be pretty old when I have to renew my license in 2008.” Looking back at my thought, I disagree! Now I think I’ll be pretty old the NEXT time I have to renew my license in 2016 (I’ll be 35). Yikes… time flies and I know it will only fly faster.

Until next time…

Monday-Funday!

2008-02-04T06:25:00.000-08:00

New Blog! Here goes. I couldn't think of a better way to keep in contact with all of my friends and family while I uproot, move out west, and live the life I've always dreamed about! Only a few days until the grand departure-- and I'm trying to get organized enough for my trip-- Driving out on Thursday, flying down to Tucson AZ on the next Monday... packing for this while packing everything I own into my little Jetta wagon. My car will probably look ridiculous crusing down the road-- 3 bikes on top, packed inside to the BRIM, miscellanous ski gear strapped in between the bikes... You get the picture. I'll be sure to post one. Today will be a day to get myself collected. First it will start with coffee. a good day can not be good with out coffee. After that-- roller ride/yoga then I'll start trimming the fat... really getting rid of things I don't need.

Yesterday was one of the best days ever. Seriously. We all got up a bit early-- Gabe, Ryan and I and piled into Ryan's '94 Saturn-- along with our ski gear-- and headed down to Chestnut Mountain. The light was flat, but it was early enough to have all of the snow still on the mtn, so ice wasn't too much of an issue. Usually after 1pm-ish, skiers and boarders push so much stinking snow DOWN the hill that all that is left to ski on are these huge glacial-like ice sheets that make me all too nervous to shread on. The skiing was amazing, I made some sweet turns and am glad we went.

Ryan had to work, so we put in a solid 3.5 hours of skiing pretty hard. We left c-nut and headed back into Galena... the guys dreaming of Culvers. At one point only a few miles from Galena, Ryan told Gabe to pull over-- he heard something abnormal... and true that was. We had a flat tire. Ryan would be late for work! All things said and done, the floppy tire was swapped with a mini-doughnut and we ventured back to Platteville. Nice! Ryan wasn't even 15 mins late for work AND the boys were able to get their 'butterburgers' afterall!

The day proceeded with the left-over chicken carcus that Ryan cooked up last Wednesday. I made him save it because I would make my mom's kickin' chicken' soup. Ryan worked, Gabe and I lounged, made soup, used the breadmaker for the first time, and watched a movie. The bread didn't rise so we ended up with yet another dense brick of bread. It still tasted good, however it was just way too dense. My synopsis... old yeast. Who knows. The evening ended with a game of chess!

That is it for now. I imagine I'll get more precise while posting, but for now you are going to get my ramblings. Deal with it!! :)