An August Morning Bike Crash

Greetings Readers

"Son of a bitch!"

Life is funny. So there I was this morning with Rebecca going to work. We were turning the corner and lo and behold we went horizontal. Fuck me.

In the movies - when the people in the movies see an accident coming or happen they say something funny or smart like saying "This is going to hurt" or "Hope you can kiss your ass goodbye."

However. Not with me. I fucking cuss going down and even during the event. "Son of a bitch" and the ever so elegance Mother F word. So there I was going horizontal, with Tiesto's song "Dance4Life" thrumming loudly and the morning sun ever so bright shining this morning. I was holding onto my handlebars breathing easily and waiting for the cold concrete crash that awaited me. Yes. Holding on baby! You do not want your arms hands to do anything else because you could twist, break, sprain, your arm/hand if you are trying to break your fall. My MO is to hold and curl up in a fetal position and hope for the best. It is funny that I can remember those few seconds so clearly. Well, I can tell you readers that landing was not picture perfect. I hit hard and bounced a foot then skidded another foot or so.

"Fuck me" was what I said after I got up. I really got hurt. Er... I am hurt. Even now on my lunch break my left thigh and outer left bicep are throbbing. I got a deep gash on my outer ankle (you know that bump down there) and right above my elbow is going to another road rash scar. Well, probably road rash on top of another road rash scar. Fuck me.

I was a bit shaken. So I half walked to the side of the road to compose myself. This was and I guess still a beautiful Friday to the beginning of a 3 day weekend, but dang I went down when I should not have.

The tires that I have on are really new about 250 miles or so on them. Perhaps I leaned to far into the turn and my new tires lost traction on the smooth concrete and that is what caused my accident. I looked at where I went down and I did not see any liquids or anything else that could of caused me to fall down. I think I better buy my Pro Michelin tires that I always buy (every now and then Hutchinsen tires). You know when you buy the best you feel safe.

Anyway, I walked my post-accident off a few feet and then got back on the bike and continued my journey to work.

By the way readers, I did not get the 42 " LCD TV. But I did get the Colorado Athlete Club membership. So, if any of you see me walking/cycling with my nose way up in the air. You now know the reason why.

The picture is of me years ago during the start of the Courage Classic that is held in the Rocky Mountains over a three day period.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

US Open 2007 - Day 3

Greetings Readers

"You're not the one for me. oooo - hooo!"

The song is Black Horse and the Cherry Tree. This is the perfect song for this women tennis player I know not. Her name is Ahsha Rolle (pictured). Who? That is what I said on Monday. Who?

I am now behind this girl - 100%. Here are the facts - Ahsha is from the state of Florida (USA). Her birthday is 03/21/85 and her height 5'8" and weight 159 lbs.

This is probably the first time I noticed her name, but I am sure I have heard her name before but ignored this unknown name.

Now, this has all changed by the end of Monday's opening day.

On Monday, this match was the upset of the day. Tatiana Golovin (17) vs. Ahsha Rolle. I heard and also saw clips of the match when I got home from work that evening. Nothing really out of the ordinary, but I was in awe because the way that Ahsha looked. Ahsha was not someone that I would even give a chance to beat Golovin on Monday. The results were 4-6, 6-1, then 2-6. This is "The Upset" that I was looking for on Monday to begin the US Open. Boo-yah Ahsha!

Then, listening to her match this afternoon Ahsha Rolle vs. Karin Knapp, I was rooting for the underdog Ahsha. "ooo-hoo!". Well, the first set was a "bit messy" and I could hear the faults, errors and everything else that these two were giving each other. I was sort of shaking my head in disbelief, but on the opposite end I was pumping my fist in the air whenever Ahsha won a point. Eventually she won the second set, but not without some mistakes by both players. I was unable to listen to the 3rd set, since the night session was beginning and the US Open.org Radio switched to the Serena Williams (8) vs. Maria Elena Camerin match. US Open.org radio gave us periodic updates, but Dammit I wanted to listen to Ahsha's match!

In the end, Ahsha pulled another match win and she's onto the next round of the US Open. The results were 3-6, 6-4 & 6-3.While listening to the announcer say "Ahsha is talking to her racket" "Ahsha screamed in disgust" and you could also hear Ahsha shriek in the background. Listening to this was pure enjoyment for me. This is a "Dark Horse" giving all she's got and does not care about what may or may not be proper at the US Open or on the Tennis court. I hope Rolle can "roll" over her next opponent.

Martina Hingis (16) won yesterday - in easy sets! Hingis played Mathlide Johansson and the end results were 6-0, and 6-3. That's my girl!

Lleyton Hewitt (16) vs. Amer Delic - Hewitt won 6-2, 6-4, & 6-2. "Come On!"

David Nalbandian (24) vs. Ivan Navarro Pastor - Nalbandian won, but each set went the distance 7-5, 7(7)-6(4) & 7(8)-6(6). Alright!

Today Marat Safin (25) vs. Frank Dancevic - Safin won 7-5, 7(7)-6(5) & 7(9)-6(7). I can not wait to watch this match I taped earlier today.

Good to see Henman won. Tim Henman vs. Dmitry Tursunov (27) - 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 & 6-4. I would like Henman to make a good showing this US Open since this will be the last US Open for Henman.

Mikhail Youznhy (11) vs. Nicolas Devilder - I want to see if Youznhy put his racket on top of his head when he won the match easily. 6-0, 6-1 & 6-2.

All three "vics" won their matches - Jelena Jankovic, Ana Ivanovic won today and Novak Djokovic won yesterday.

I know that there are a lot more players that I can mention, but I guess I better wrap up since I need to get going.

In closing, did you see that "Ass kissing" Maria Sharapova did after her match last night ?! Holy Shit! Her knees and lips must be sore from kissing ass to the fans of New York. I have not forgotten nor has New York about Sharapova's behavior on the tennis court this past year. Her coach/dad coaching from the box last year at the US Open (the banana eating sign). At least Yuri got fined for that.

Then, all this year Sharapova has been making her opponent wait to serve when it is not her turn to serve. Unacceptable. Totally un-fucking acceptable. Her bracket looks easy, but I am hoping that someone will derail "her train." And is the red dress that she wore "New York"? To me, I don't think so. Of course, I do not know New York so I really do not know.

Until the next time readers

Daryl Charley

The Fallen Athlete

US Open 2007 - Day 1

Greetings Readers

Well, I got a PG version of the opening of my first submission and I have the original version in almost in its entirety. And today's picture is the first victim of the Davydenko train - Jesse Levine.

Greetings Readers

“Ready. Set. Go!”

Welcome to the legendary Grand Slam stage of Tennis. This is the premiere event that concludes the Grand Slam Tennis series for the year of 2007.

I thought about getting poetic about the beginning of the US Open, but I will not. I will leave that up to Dick E. to read from the teleprompter to read the poetic passage that opens the 2007 US Open.

Many of my friends recognize that this is the event, second behind to the Tour de France, which I will faithfully watch from the beginning to the end, almost. I set aside my way of life for two weeks and watch the US Open in and out. I know of New York, but I really do not know New York until the US Open. Yet, during the duration of the US Open my household “becomes” New York and I also convert to New York Time (EST).

What is extraordinary to me is that there are moments that happen during the US Open that do not transpire anywhere else in the world. The day matches are noteworthy, barring any rain delays/outs. But then as evening advances this is where the game of tennis at nightfall becomes something one cannot truly write about. Matches can go swiftly or they can perpetuate late into the night. When I mean late in the night I imply well past midnight (i.e. like 1:30 AM and seeing “The Match” of the US Open). Pure mesmerizing.

We viewers, faithful watchers, do not know when that will happen. As in the case of last year in Agassi vs. Pavel that was held in Arthur Ashe Stadium on the opening night of the US Open. Little did we know that this first round match would go the distance. This also made us faithful watchers pull for Agassi to win and to advance to the second round – which we viewer were treated to another 5 setter. Yes, I am proud to say that I saw this memorable first night match.

On the opposite end – how about two years ago when Roddick lost in the first round of the US Open. American Express had a massive campaign surrounding Roddick on “Where’s your Mojo?” I, of course, wished a Happy Birthday to Roddick for losing so prematurely.

Beyond the lengths of the matches, we viewers have the women “Screaming, yelling, and grunting” and we have the men “grunting and yelling.” We see some of the rivalries getting on each other’s nerves. We more often than not see the upsets in the first week of the US Open. We will see some grueling set points, set matches, and the 30 plus hit rallies. We also get to see the smiles and concerns from each of the players after a set that put us viewers on the edge of our couches.

However, we viewers now have to put up with “those” commentators – both Mary’s, both McEnroe’s, Trautwig, and a couple of the others who get less television time. And I know that I am going to hear that 7-letter word from my ever so “favorite” Mary C (most likely regarding Sharapova and her shoulder, I bet). And then everyone behind the USA Network Today desk will ask and/or predict it will/may be a Federer vs. Nadal Final.

I can tell you straight up - No fucking way. Nadal is a first rate player and I do acknowledge that, but his record on hard court playing and at the US Open could be a lot more better – to be blunt A lot fucking better. And the bracket that Nadal is in is congested of highly very respected tennis players who can “whip” Nadal and “his fingers picking his thong (I am assuming, of course)” out of the crack of his ass every other shot. Why does he do this? Why? Why?

Conners. Jimmy (Jim) Connors was/is distinguished. Presently, Conners seems to be doing great with Roddick, but give us a fucking break - give the TV time to Roddick and not Conners. We/I could care less how Conners reacts after each point Roddick plays. We are here to see Roddick play, not Conners and him watching Roddick play. Conners had his time in the limelight. Time to let him go. And I have to admit – I am sure that Roddick is reasoning the exact feeling I am. Roddick is not stupid, he is a young one and not ignorant.

Nadal and Sharapova also better watch their “delay of game antics” those two impose at every tournament. If they do that they better get a delay of game warning and then the next delay of game will cost them a point.

Starting today is the 128th start of the US Open. This will be a US Open without Agassi following his last match at the 2006 US Open last year (retirement). Who will New York support this year? Mauresmo is out this year as well as Lindsay and Cljisters who both retired from professional tennis (well tennis in general). My girl – Hingis is back, but I do not have my confidence in her that I usually do. And then there is the return of Hawk-eye. The US Open is the event that brought Hawk-eye into the Tennis world last year. Since then the other Grand Slams have adopted the system on the main courts of play.

I have no predictions for the finals and will take each round as they happen (I bet I win more Coca-Cola’s than lose this year). That is what the US Open is about to me. The best tennis players in the world are in New York City for two weeks and that is why I watch the US Open. Whether it is a match I really know each player or a match that I do not know either of them. Deep down I want Hingis to go as far as she can and eventually win, but in the second year of her being out of retirement and the matches to date her chances are not looking good.

In conclusion readers, I am reasonably opened minded and not one-sided. So please, follow me during the US Open and I should be able to give you an UN-bias view of the matches. Well, I make no promises for the Nadal, Sharapova, the William's sisters or Roddick matches

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

An August Momentary Lapse

Greetings Readers

Yes, I have been a bit busy. A lot of things have happened the past few days. Back on Wednesday night (perhaps Tuesday night), there were loud and flashy thunderstorms that happened between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM the made it's way through the Denver metro area. I was woken up at about 1:30 AM and about 2:25 AM on that night. The lightening was loud, long, and crack-boom! sort of sounding. But then off in the distance you.. well I could here the long rolling thunder that was probably 10 to 20 miles away in the East. Once the Flashes and Lightening woke me up I was up. Though, I did not get out of bed. I was facing the East and my curtains & windows were open so I had prime view of the thunderstorms. Not to mention that I can hear the rain falling heavy and steady. I wanted to look and see how hard the rain was falling, but I was content just laying back watching the black sky. On both occasions that I woke up I was immediately up. Then, eventually I fell asleep and the next thing you know it is 5:20 in the morning. I have to say that was the type of night that I wished Jaci was over. Or maybe that is another part of me wanting that. So, when I got up I was not in the best of moods since I had an interrupted sleep throughout the night. I went to work pretty much with an attitude, but kept it to myself so I would not make anyone else suffer my misery of a morning start.

So, then... let me see... oh our little department went to the Rockies game on Thursday. We were up in the cheap seats, never-the-less I enjoyed myself. There was not going to be a repeat of last year's game when I, we, showed up at the game until the 3rd of 4th inning and then the next thing you know the game was over. So, I made sure that I caught a ride from someone else, and also left a few minutes earlier. Then, that was basically made sure that I was responsible for myself and no one else. I also sat with some other people to be sure I had a nice time, in my view. Barring that incident, I kept my head and I was also excited about the Rockies game since the Pittsburgh Pirates were playing. I have no clue who is on the Pirates these days, but at least a team I care to like was playing. As oppose to last year when it was the San Francisco Giants with Barry Bonds - Boo. Enough said on that subject. Pirates won 5-1.

I spent a lot of money, but the money and the time off (Half day from work) was worth it. After the game, I then went to a couple of shops Downtown. Since I was down in the area that was the reason that I went to look around. Also, since the RTD Light rail tickets were free I decided that I did not have to go back to Lone Tree for a bit. I bought a couple more things while downtown and not to mention the time I was down there that was when the work day was done. I saw a lot of women in Power Suits (which is a big turn on for me) and other women that were just fucking Cute in general. Those blondes. But I digress.

Let me see. There is more, but I do not want to mention those boring tidbits of info.

Nip / Tuck is schedule for October. There was another brand new teaser trailer for the show. It shows a woman's back and then the camera pans down the woman's back and you see a map of the United States and a "dotted line" goes from Miami to Los Angeles. Again not much, but oh so glad that Christian and Sean are back.

Then, the series that I got into last year - It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is set for Sept 13 (FX). Charlie, Mac, "Sweet" Dee, Dennis, Frank and his ex-wife (forgot her name readers) I have seen the comericals for the show the past week and I can not help laughing my ass off with a huge smile on my face. The show's subject matter to date is sort of taboo, in a sense. Not your typical regular tv stuff. They take on Cancer, Rasicm, Steriods, Betting, Drugs, Underage Drinking, Nazi's, uh physically challenged people, doing people you really know, Transvesite, Abortion, Gay Issues, Owning a Gun, and so forth. A lot of subject matter in the past two seasons - 1st season (7 episodes) and 2nd season (10 episodes). New subject matter for this season and old characters showing up is making me so excited to see "The Gang." Who is my favorite? Very tough, but I am going say "Charlie." with Mac and "Sweet" Dee next. Pictured on today's blog is "The Gang" from the Show.

Tomorrow - The US Open begins! Woo Hoo.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The August Draws Announced

Greetings Readers

The brackets for the US Open were announced today! www.usopen.org Something new this year for me - I actually looked at the Men's Brackets.

Since I covered and followed the other three Grand Slams this year I actually care who (the men's draws) is playing and who they may be up against. I, of course, ignore Nadal and Federer. Monfils should breeze into the round of 16. "Come on!" should make it the quarters easily to hopefully face Moya. Yet Youzhny and Fish are potential players to upset on what I forsee.

Roddick vs Gimbelstob - could make me fist pump if Roddick can get eliminated. Gasquet, Ferrero are others who I would like to see advance, but all in all these guys will most likely be eliminated by Federer in the end.

Then, the bracket that is intriging to me, is Blake, Baghdatis, Grosjean, Hrbaty, Murray, Haas, & Davydenko, yet again Federer could be awaiting in the semi's.

Note: Update 08/26/07 - 4:50 PM - (Pictured) - This is the official poster for this year's 2007 US Open.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

A Sultry Character Arrives in August

Greetings Readers

Babies do not sleep as good as I did like I did last night. (Let me watch Fight Club to quote correctly) I got caught up on my sleep from the vacation. So, having done that I can now get motivated to get caught up to speed with the Internet. Not that I have a following, but never-the-less.

Guess who I saw in the Sunday Paper? Specifically the Comics section. I got to open my Sunday paper last night and yes I was right. Lola Granola! There she is - not that I really remember how she left Bloom County. I think that the last time that I saw Lola was she had second thoughts about marrying Opus and her thinking "He looks like a toadstool" or something to that nature. And that was all I remember - granted there was the wrap up towards the end of Bloom County so perhaps I missed where Lola went off to.

Yes, I am excited to see Lola Granola back, but she is really not a true character of Bloom County. Only when Opus and her fell in love, meeting the parents, bachelor(ette) parties, the vision of the future (2008, if I remember correctly), and that is all I can recall. I guess I am going to have to pull out my Bloom County books and research. Hah hah.

Readers - If you are not familiar with Bloom County. Lola was a love interest of Opus, they got engaged and were to marry when Opus "had an accident" and had a vision of the future with Lola. After the vision Lola and Opus came to the opinion that they should not get married. Lola, in the comic world, is a hottie, perhaps not worthy of Opus (then again who is for Opus) and yes I remember thinking Lola was a pretty "hot" comic character back in the 80's. Then again, what other comic had a "Sultry" character as Lola. =) And not to mention those sizzling outfits.

I went to Breathed's website and I see that his Sunday Comic will not be printed (carried) in a lot of the Sunday papers beginning 08/26/07 and ending 09/02/07. I think it is due to the subject matter of the script. There was a preview (one pane) and well I think I can see why, but then again.

I think Berkeley Breathed has finally re-established himself with Opus and now is fulfilling us faithful readers by bringing back "our characters" we have come to know by Mr Breathed. Breathed has subject matter to work with these days and really only has only comic a week to worry about as opposed to do doing a full week.

In closing, it is good to see another "old friend" from Bloom County in the Sunday Paper. Not pivotal for me, but never-the-less good to see her back.

The heat wave continues - another record to be broken today. I think that the news (Fox News) said the record for today is 97 degrees and we most likely will break that record.

Update 6:37 PM: I went to see my Chik-Fil-A "Amigo" and got my Gallon of Sweet Tea. Tis been a week or so since my last visit. I saw Rafael this time around and he was busy. Sort of unusual for him to be busy this part of the night. At lunch, I also read that the Dallas Cowboys beat the Denver Broncos. Woo Hoo. Go Dallas. Of course this is pre-season. But I just want to "Woo Hoo!" every time the Broncos lose. Woo Hoo! See how much fun that was for me. The Moonlight Classic happened this past weekend and unfortunately I was out of state and I could not attend. You know what that means - no more fucking training - to a T. No more strict diet. No more schedules. I am retired (or as my co-workers / friends would say to me - "You are not retired Mr.C") Anyway, you know what that deserves ?! Another Woo Hoo! I got on the bike after a four day break and was okay. While I was on vacation I saw my Motobecane. The pride and joy of my bike collection. Old school, as myself. The Space Shuttle Endeavor is suppose to come back to Earth on Wednesday. A bit early due to a Hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico. I hope the best for the Shuttle and the crew. The US Open - in 6 days! 6 DAYS BABY! I realize this is a mish mash of information and a lot of labels. Most or all may be worthless, but thought to mention just in case someone out there in the Internet world is tracking the world through my eyes. Yeah right. I can dream and will continue so...

Until the next time readers

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

August in New Mexico, for a bit

Greetings Readers

I am back from vacation, but it was not a vacation. I left the past Wednesday night for New Mexico 8:00 PM and I came back to Colorado this morning at 5:30 AM.

I took the time off - well I made myself take two days off and the weekend so I had a four day mini-vacation.

Little did I know that this was the week that we were taking care of our cattle that were born in Dec, Jan and Feb of this year. I am sure that I blog some of this info when the events happened.

All in all, we branded, gave 8-way shots, powdered, doused the 8 calfs in medicine. These calves sure did grow in the past eight months. They were big and a couple of them were a bit jumpy. I was a cussin, cursin, getting dirty, being a cowboy, and enjoying the time with my parents and brother.

Today's picture is the "Lotaburger" burger. Basically, anytime that I go down to New Mexico this is the place that I get a burger at. Double lotaburger, with lettuce, pickles, mustard, & Green Chile. 86 the cheese and that's it. Do not ask me anything else. Period.

That is short version of the vacation and I will go into depth later. I need some sleep!

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

An August What-Would-You Do Situation

Greetings Readers

I am sorry I do not have time to catch up/post. I may be gone for a bit so there will not be any posts for a bit.

I will leave you with a question.

What would you do if you saw a "office night cleaner"(basiscally the janitors cleaning up the office after work) taking a piss in the building shower while leaving for the day?

I can not give you a back story, my feelings, etc. - I just do not have the time currently, so I will have to answer back on that later.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

An August Pickle

Greetings Readers

An "August Pickle".

Decisions, decision. I have this pretty big decision -get into a nice athletic club (10x times better than a 24hour fitness club) or get a nice 42" LCD tv. I know what I want, but getting feedback from some of my friends and co-workers are not really helping me out. I have my mind made up then something else is brought up then I start to think about the other thing.

Both would bring happiness and long term happiness. On puts me into shape the other brings me into the 21st century. I have a deadline for tomorrow so I guess we will see how/what happens in the meantime. Either would be great. I could have both, but I really made my mind up to choose only one.

One thing of note - I beat the PS2 game God of War this past weekend. I know it took a while, but I have not had any time to play regularly and also I got "stuck" on two parts of the game, which held me up a week - a piece. Otherwise, the gamble of buying this game new was well worth the money.

Nothing more to say, so

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Cherry Creek Reservoir in August

Greetings readers

Yesterday was the day to take Rebecca out for a ride. Saturday was good too, but I made Sunday the day.

I got up early Sunday and took Tracey along and we went to the store to get some breakfast material and the Sunday Denver Post.

Readers - Am I suppose to assume that is "Lola Granola" in Opus? I think that would be her, but what would she be doing there? I might have to do a bit of research, if possible. Or I am going to have to wait until more information surrounds this Lola.

Me and Rebecca headed out to Cherry Creek Reservoir to do a couple of laps. Low intensity and high intensity, depending on how I felt when I got the reservoir. Oh yes, the day was already hot, but more importantly - NO Humidity! I grabbed a couple of Mountain Blast Powerade drinks from the gas station and that was all I needed. I had my Santa Fe Century jersey on today. I wanted to be bright. Readers! I was pertaining to physically bright since I know that I am mentally bright. Period. So there I was in the orange and yellow jersey with the Sunday shining ever so brightly. You probably could not look at me directly with the sun light reflecting off my jersey. LOL. Anyway, I decided to ride into Cherry Creek and see how it goes. I was not in the mood to start off fast.

The wind was blowing lightly, in from the East. I saw many riders going the opposite direction, which was good. Any time I see a rider in front or pass me that competitive side comes out from within me. Me and Rebecca were just keeping a nice pace and getting the feel of each other out at the Reservoir. We managed a nice gingerly pace on the first lap of the Creek.

Second lap, me and Rebecca were passed by a rider, with a few pounds on, at a reasonable pace, but by no means flying. We watched him get ahead then I heard the gears of the bike (through my earphones) and see the rider move his hand down to the down tube of his bike. No way. Old school. Me and Rebecca were not going to be passed by an out of shaping, non-looking, rider on an old school bike. We picked up the pace and within 50 yards we were in the slipstream, drafting, the rider. We drafted for about 2 miles or so. Yes, we enjoyed the 18 mph draft and definite slow paced pedalling we were doing. As oppose to him pedalling away. Sure he looked back twice, but I made no effort.

Sorry readers, me and Rebecca had no reason to do any work at the front. Sure in hell I took full advantage of the "free" ride. He did not seem concern about me and Rebecca drafting him. If he did he would of slowed down and made us pass. Then after about 2 1/2 miles he was turning left as oppose to going straight, which was the way me and Rebecca had to go.

Then, the last four miles we were passed by another rider, more hard core looking, and that was the time to draft once more. Well, we played catch up and then we reached a 4 way intersection, but a 3 way stop with one right of way (no stop sign).

This is what separates the people who give riders a bad name for breaking the law. All three of us were approaching the stop sign and yes we are required to stop. The only people who have the right of way that do not have to stop is the people coming into Cherry Creek Reservoir. There is truck turning South, which is the way we were biking. At the same time there is a few vehicles stopped going East. This rider in front of us decided to "cut behind" the person waiting at the stop sign going East. While about 6 to 10 vehicles were turning left, right or going straight.

As much as I wanted to do the same thing. I did not. That is breaking the law, not to mention, giving another reason why cars/trucks "hate" cyclists. I waited for about 2 minutes (until everyone abide the law) and then me and Rebecca took off. Two minutes ahead of us and the guy in front could ride. We "dropped the hammer" and decided this was going to be last lap at the Creek and give what we could to catch this law-breaker. There are twists and turns, trees, and shrubs all along the route so could not really see very far in front of us. Our average for the first mile was about 30 to 31 mph. About mile and a half we saw the "red" jersey of him in the distance. Not a speck, but very far. I bet his speed was about 20 mph, Needless to say, the red jersey was getting closer to us, but we could not close the distance within the exit/entrance on the South side of Cherry Creek. I would estimate about 75 yards, but we were exhausted for really giving all we could in those last four miles.

All in all, we worked up a sweat and tried our best to catch up within the distance we had. No loss since we obeyed the law and waited our turn at the stop sign. The other rider was in the wrong for doing what he did. Would I have done that? Yes, a long time ago, but now I know better and more wise about riding. Otherwise, it felt good with all the adrenaline and lactic acid in the muscle, not to mention sweat pouring off my face. I was breathing heavy, but all so good. =) That my friends is one of many reasons why I ride.

Me and Rebecca finished up our ride with a post ride drink on the steps of the Arapahoe marketplace with a cold Coca Cola from the vending machine outside Albertson's. Boo-yah.

Update 08/14/07 : I added a picture of the location of the intersection in question in Cherry Creek Reservoir State Park. Yes, this pertains to this blog's entry. Yet, this is a daily occurrence on almost every rider who thinks they do not have to stop.

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

A Very Nice August Surprise

Greetings Readers

Let me take you off the beaten path - for a bit. Not that this is something new.

There I was last Sunday, up before dawn, with the fan going on the window sill blowing in the early morning air. Yes, cool air, but not as cool as it is going be in a month. Pretty soon I will be putting in the fan away for the summer. I digress.

I was enjoying the coming of a new day and the faint blue glow on the horizon that indicates that dawn is approaching. I was pondering what I was going to do for the day, but I was pretty well limited. Why? Well, I had to be in my glasses since my eyes were acting up. Yes, I wear contacts and something was irritating them this morning. I thought this was going to be a day to just stay home and do some things that I have putting off for a while.

I stood out on the balcony looking to the East and listening to the birds starting to chirp and sing in the coming of a new day. Beyond those sounds I can hear the automatic water sprinklers "click, click, click" and the faint gurgling of a water fountain nearby. Nothing out of the ordinary. For me very soothing. I am also not alone on the balcony - I have Heidi. Poor Heidi. With Rebecca being the new woman in my life and Tracey now being the girl who I go out with regularly Heidi is hardly in the picture anymore. Heidi is not forgotten in my book. She has stories to tell and yet to tell.

Why this particular account? Nothing really and I can not give you a reason why readers that I elected to tell you. I am not going to say that this a regular thing I do every day, but it is something I do almost every day. Nope. I do not drink coffee out on the balcony, but I do have a Coca Cola or Sweet Tea from Chik-fil-A. This of course does not count the bottle of beer, glass of wine or Frozen Margarita that I have on the balcony at other times. I have to say that this is favorite place that I go and it is also the favorite place in my humble little abode. With the kitchen right behind in my list of favorite places.

I progress in time and an hour later - I came back from the store with some breakfast materials and the Sunday Denver Post. This is also something of a weekend ritual. Breakfast and the paper. Some say that print is dead. I disagree. I still enjoy the paper and I hate to say this, but I fucking like looking at the Sunday Ads. Yes, pretty shallow. I like to see what is out there and what is possible to buy. I do not dream. If I see something that I want I will get or save up and get. But, beyond looking at the ads, I also like the Sunday Comics. Granted, paper industries are shrinking the comic size and getting rid of other comics readers are not reading anymore, but I still buy the Sunday Paper.

I did enjoy the Sunday paper more, but with the newspaper industry shrinking the TV guide it is worthless. The TV guide is very thin and they have put in Monday thru Friday on two pages and then sub categories for Morning, Afternoon and Overnight. The only details that they have left alone was the weekend programming and evening program. Otherwise, most of the listings have "Varied programs" which helps shit to me when I need to set my VCR and/or DVD recorder to tape a show/movie. Again, I digress.

I grabbed the first section of the Sunday comics that is always covered with an "Ads flyer" so you have to open to page 2 to start reading the Comics. I opened the paper and I see my favorite Sunday comic second from the top of the page. "Opus". Opus is a character from Bloom County, which is a comic that I grew up with. Berkeley Breathed is the creator. Bloom County was/is funny and I still have numerous original clippings from newspapers of the comic stored in a box. (I am recalling from memory so forgive me readers if a name is spelled wrong) Steve Dallas, Milo, Bill the Cat, John Cutter, Hodge Podge, Portney, Rosebud, Milquetoast(?) Binkley and one of another my all time favorite characters - Oliver Wendell Jones.

I have to admit I did not breathe for a couple of seconds. There was the nighttime galaxy, a huge telescope and sitting next to the telescope with his glasses on - Oliver. (Pictured on my blog today) Oliver Wendell Jones. I also got a lump in my throat and perhaps a bit watering of my eyes. I was extremely happy seeing my old friend. Yes, I consider this cartoon character my friend - a true friend. Oliver looked the same, but with the coloring and shading of the Comic it appears that there is grey in his hair, which would make sense. But it is not, just the shading to give the night and comic some definition. I read the first pane slowly and continued to do so throughout the comic. Oliver was discussing, er doing all the talking to Binkley, Steve Dallas's son and Opus (the usual suspects). Oliver was making us think about things and make us wonder. That was/is Oliver to a T.

Tis the little things that make us happy. I am so glad Oliver finally made an appearance. As well as Binkley did on/around Memorial Day of this year. That was even more touching because of the mood of the comic and topic. Opus was doing what I would be doing if I could. Two new/old characters have made an appearance in Opus within four months is so, as a former co-worker would say, "awesome". Prior to these two characters we have also been re-introduced to Steve Dallas and Bill the Cat.

Thank you Mr Breathed. I am a loyal fan and you have continued to keep me entertained and bring a bit of joy to my life. I am not disappointed that this is a Sunday only tradition. Yes, I want more, but I am not complaining at all. Something is better than nothing - in the particular case.

This entry took more than that I thought it would so I will save the entry I was planning to do for a later date.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

An August Heat Record Today?

Greetings Readers

We may break the record temperature today. On record, it is 100 degress. So, I guess we will see around 1 to 5 this evening.

Otherwise, I really have nothing to write, so...

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The Beginning of an August Heat wave

Greetings Readers

I received the rest of my shipment from Amazon.com yesterday. I now have all the CD's that I ordered. All were by Dj Tiesto aka Tiesto. That was the evening for me. Putting in Tiesto while eating my spaghetti and salsa from the day before. I could say that was an evening to cherish.

Yes readers, sometimes that is all it takes for me to relax at home. I would like a good book to read so I can open a bottle of wine - alas nothing has really caught my eye. Well, I do want to read the last, I think that was I read, the last of the series involving Duane and his family in the Larry McMurtry (spelling?) books - "When the Light Goes"

Oh, the humidity, is almost gone. Let me tell you readers I was sweating a little bit last night, but at least I was not glistening with sweat in the lights last night. However, I guess that means Jaci will not glisten and as I mentioned early this month - that is sexy. Oh baby. I know you readers probably do not care either way, but at least this is something that I think about that is a turn on for me. Alright time to change subjects.

I am happy that the Endeavor made it to space safely. I get a lump in my throat when I think about any/all space shuttle launch(es). No, I do not watch and hope to catch some terrible. I just want to know that the Shuttle(s) are okay. I have heard/read that NASA was/is close to keeping the Shuttles grounded. But obviously that is not true since there have been two or three launches since the last incident. I do care about the astronauts, but only in name - my caring is in "the Space Program" and the continuance of the Space Shuttle missions into space. That's it - nothing more nor nothing less.

I called my parents yesterday and my mom informed that the Hatch Green Chile are now in season. I guess the time for a mini vacation to go get some Hatch is about in order. I am going to try for next week, but some of my co-workers have already booked some time off for the next two weeks months ago. I hope I can a day or two, but if not, then not a problem. I will have to schedule a time for September.

I was biking home the other day and I see that Gosh-Damn fucking Dairy Cow outside Oscar's and then I see another item. It is a banner flying in front of Oscar's "Under New Management". I do know readers. Should I/my family give this place another chance? Nayh, that is tempting the gods. Oh, I know you readers are still waiting for the ending of the story I started. I am not sure if I have the entry on my laptop or not. If not, I guess I better but the ending together from memory and post to my blog so I can get some closure on this open ended story...

In closing, Rebecca got some riding in today since there was no rain scheduled for today.

Until the next time readers

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

An August Rain Drenching

Greetings Readers

Damn, Damn, Damn. I looked out the office window last night and I see that the afternoon / evening predicted rainstorm is right there coming in from the Rocky Mountains. I knew that I was skirting the line of being wet or dry for the bike ride home. That was also why I rode Tracey yesterday as opposed to Rebecca.

With the threat of getting wet I finished up for the day and then headed downstairs to change into my biking gear. Well, in five minutes I guess the heavens opened up and it was pouring. Not just raining or whatnot, but pouring. "Oh Shit" I said and shaking my head with a smile on my lips. I did not want to wait this storm out so out the parking garage I go and immediately I was drenched. Drenched. Thankfully with all the humidity in the air I felt the rain was warm to the skin. I started biking home and the rain was not letting up. "Sucks to be me."

Overall, I was in a good mood. No sense for me to be in a bad mood for being caught in the rain. If I did that I would be sending myself to an early grave, metaphorically speaking. The street gutters were overflowing and I was literally riding in all the water that was going to the street drains. I then decided to get onto the sidewalks since I have my new 2 month old rims on. I know the routes I go home and know where the potholes, cracks, and other things that could ride into, but with the water flowing so heavy I could not see the street/road. I decided I would take my time home and be safe with my rims.

That I mean is once you are soaked to the bone, there is no sense in riding as fast as possible home nor is there a reason to take cover from the rain. You are wet and that's that.

With that mentality I decided to stop by the Grocery store and buy some Salsa and Spaghetti stuff in order to make some home made Salsa and Spaghetti last tonight. The rain had eased up by the time I got to the store and when I walked in the store, the Air Conditioning in the store made me very, very cold. I could feel the cold easing into every part of my body since I was wet, wet.

I only spent 5 to 10 minutes in the store, but by the time I got to the check out lane my teeth were chattering (and I could not stop!) and I tried moving my body as little as possible. Why? Well, every time that I moved my bike jersey fabric would adjust and I would feel the cold on the part of the fabric that was not against my skin. Oh. The bike shorts were okay since they were molded, snugged against my body. Once I stepped outside the store I was warm immediately and the rain had stopped. The sun made an appearance and as I was biking home west I felt the sun's heat and saw the evening sunset about to begin. The sun's light was an autumn yellow and in full radiance. Yes, there were rain clouds here and there in the sky, but my view was clear.

To top off the evening there in my mailbox was the new CD I order by Tiesto - In Search of Sunrise 4 Latin America. I popped open the new CD and have been listening to the CD for the past 18 hours. Nope, I have not had the chance to get onto the Ipod.

This morning on CNN and Fox News I saw that the Shuttle launch of the Endeavour (Endeavor) is scheduled for 6:36 PM, but not sure which time zone. I would assume EST, since that is where the launch is being held. When I mentioned last month about the Shuttle Challenger I did not know that this launch was scheduled nor did I know that it had ties to the Columbia. Christa McAuliffe's back up is going to be on this launch 21 years later. It was sad for me to see the video's of Christa they were showing on Fox News. Anyway, I hope for a safe launch, mission and re-entry.

"Morgan, a former McCall, Idaho schoolteacher, has waited and worked through 22 years and two shuttle accidents for her planned evening launch aboard Endeavor. She first joined NASA in 1985 as the backup for New Hampshire high school teacher Christa McAuliffe, the first Teacher in Space who died with six other astronauts during the 1986 Challenger tragedy"

Pictured is the Endeavor before the launch. What a picture for me.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Now Quit Your Whining

Greetings Readers

Immigrants. I think you readers may know my stance on immigrants since I have made comments here and there on my blog. Anyway, there was an article in this past Sunday's Denver Post that talked about Immigrant and also the people who do not have identification.

For me the article was a bit bias. This time I think The Denver Post only took two writers to put this article together. Anyway, I do not know how to summarize the article, but I will give some personal thoughts about the article.

Sorry readers. I am going to have continue later... the thoughts are not quite coming completely together, so let me organize my thoughts. Yes, I keep typing, deleting, typing my thoughts and I seem to be out of order.

The title of the blog? How did this come about? I have this co-worker... let us call her "Sha-nay-nay." For the past week I see this bottle of Coca Cola on her desk and every time I go into her cube (let's be honest-when I walk by) I zero in on the unopened bottle coke. Oh yes, I want that coke. I think every time I go into her cube I say "You still have not opened that coke?" Yes, something stupid to say since I know that it is not open, but never-the-less I still utter that question. She knows that I drink Coca Cola like there is no tomorrow. And she mentions that she drinks coke once in a blue moon.

Anyway, the hour was late last night before leaving work and Sha-nay-nay stopped by with the bottle of Coca Cola in hand. I was busy powering down my computer and cleaning up before I left last night so I did not see that there was a note on the bottle

Sha-nay-nay says "Oh you're still here? I was going drop and run" and I said "Why?" "Well look at the bottle" There was a blue post-it note with the words "Now Quit your Whining." We both laughed. In the end, I got the Coca Cola and this morning on my bike stop to work I usually make at Jenny's Market I got my usual Coca Cola and then I bought a bottle of Desani Flavored water - Raspberry for her. Yes, I felt guilty last night for her handing over the Coca Cola, but I made sure to get her something in return. I had to ease the guilt somehow.

7-11 has lost my business since the last incident I had there. Yep, that is 1.59 times 5 that they are losing. Not to mention any specials on pop, or a newspaper or magazine that I should/could buy in addition to my usual Coca Cola purchase. I want courtesy and not to mention someone who is not from South of the Border (yes I am assuming, but I know she had to be an immigrant) that can not speak English clearly. This is sort of an isolate incident...

I almost forgot - 11 days til the end of my biking season! Or I could even say - til my retirement. The last scheduled event is pictured on my blog. The Moonlight Classic - http://www.moonlight-classic.com This is the last official event that I close out my biking season. It is also the time I get to date and drink. Although, this year since I came out of retirement I have sort of been doing both throughout the season. I will admit this is the day I get to "get wild" since I normally do not get to do the drinking and dating during my biking season.

For my readers not based in Colorado - this bike event is an annual event (15th this year) that is held at night in the month of August. The ride times have fluctuated throughout the years, but always at night. The ride is either 10 to 20 miles long and you start and end at the State Capital. I usually do not leave the State Capital until 3 or 4 in the morning and get home between 4 and 6 AM.

Oh the stories I could tell you about my end of season Moonlight Classic rides. Then again, you probably have read my stories so perhaps there is no surprise. Two words for you - Shot stop. Woo Hoo.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

August Thunder & Lightining at Midnight

Greetings Readers

Three more weeks until the US Open! Woo Hoo! I can not wait. I checked the website last week and I saw the US Open towels for this year. (the on-court towels). $ 38.00 dollars. Yes, I am going to order one, perhaps two, towels. I still have last year's towel hanging on my wall in the living room. Damn straight - I am proud to own and show that I am a die-hard fan of the US Open.

Three weeks baby!

I re-watched the stages 16 through 19 yesterday of the Tour de France. I have made my notes and I just now got to get them organized. I also watched stage 9 from 2005.

Last night, this morning. I was awake when the storms came through Denver. The Lightining was pretty neat to see. The Thunder was not loud, but sure did "roll" for 5 to 10 seconds. That deep rumbling noise. Not that close, quick lightining noise. It rain hard and steady and then slow and steady eventually I fell asleep on the couch listening and watching the storms.

You know after putting the title of my blog yesterday I did not even bring the subject up. Sorry readers. I guess when I posted the picture of the day well all thoughts were lost. hah hah. So, readers, in Colorado the past two weeks or so we actually have humidity. Not just some - alot of humidity. With me from the same state as that "Little o' band from..." I know humidity. Granted, the humidity does not match the humidity that I grew up with, but sure felt it. Matter of fact, I am so close to turning on the AC. Hence, why I used the words Sweaty, Hot & Humid. Oh, the Sexy, is seeing Jaci uh... well... that is sexy.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Humid, Hot, Sweaty, Sexy day in August

Greetings Readers

I have been blogging for a good 9 months or so and I have learned a lot about myself and also about blogging, the art of. As you readers can see I think I have done a good job of trying to blog about me and my life.

But, I do not create a blog entry because of every place that I went during the previous day. Yes, I am sure that there is less than one percent of the population that might want to know every move and every site that I saw/visited. Yet, I am not going to do that. Personally, it was pure torture for me to scan blogs that show where one has been every moment of his/her life in that particular day. So, when I surf blogs if I come across a bunch of pictures and no words - well time for me to leave that blog.

I am also not going to show you every meal that I eat/ate or every meal that I have had at every restaurant I visited during my reign of blogging. Gosh Damn! You gotta pretty hard up for making a portfolio of food. I sort of understand baby pictures, but food?! I fucking love food, but not enough to take pictures of the meal itself from the front, side, top and at a forty-five degree angle. Fuck - Might as well as take a picture of the "porcelain god" and show the entire meal in its life in the toilet water. Hah hah.

I hope you readers get my drift. Yes, blogging is good and blogging is bad, in your own personal view. I love a good read and a not read that say "I got up, made coffee, called my boyfriend/girlfriend, went to work, blah, blah, blah". When I signed up for this service I thought that I was just going to publish my "athletic journals" and that will be that. But as I started to get warmed up to blogging I sort of saw a halo of light.

I could even coin the term "The Halo Effect" On that moment, I saw that there was a light and there was also more in that light. I know readers, I am not making sense, but to me right now that is the only way that I can describe the event leading to me actually embracing blogging, thank you very much. (Oops - yes you got readers, time to take a shot!)

Even more with blogs/blogging I see that people will "reprint" type songs into their blogs. Yes, the entire song. I guess I might have done that in the past, but for me I usually limit any song reference to one or two lines. Or better yet a couple of words.

I have also seen other bloggers type the Song/Artist that they are listening to on their I-Pod.

So, with that.... well when I started this topic I was listening to

"Paradise City "- Live Bootleg cut by Guns N Roses

I guess listing that song was not so hard, but by no means am I going to start that ritual.

In closing, there are many sorts of blogs and there are all sorts of ways that you may present a blog to the world on the Internet. I am not saying that mine is the best, but I know that it is many more steps better than the blogs that only have pictures galore on their site. Yes, there are others that I could list as example and more importantly, specific blogs, but I am going to let you readers find out for yourself should you ever decide to venture beyond my world that is currently located one mile above sea level in Colorado.

Okay, readers now that is out of the way I can tell you other than that I have nothing else to write/upload about. Yes, I have the epic tale of the last week of the Tour de France. I am not going to promise that this will be great or even good, but this will be a wrap-up for me and the rest of readers may stop wondering what happened to me during those finals days in tour.

Oh, this week was the premiere of "My Boys" on TBS. I am glad to be back in the world that I enjoyed watching the first season. PJ and her group of friends. The two episodes that premiered were okay, and the events of the show picked up 6 months after the season one finale. But we viewers got flashbacks on what happened right after the season finale.

Today's picture - A while back someone asked me about a woman who I would absolutely think that is hot/is desirable in the Movies. Well, I thought about it and then forgot then remembered once more and once more now I remembered the other day. Well, here she is pictured. K Beckinsale. Yes, that is my type of woman. And the accent is a bonus. Oh my gosh, that could push me over the edge. LOL.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

2nd Light Rail Incident in 1 Week

Greetings Readers

There I was getting onto light rail a couple of evenings ago and I was minding my own business, as usual. Everything was right in the world - dogs and cats were not living together.

I reached my stop that I was going to debark off. The train came to a stop and I proceeded to get off the train. I grabbed my bike and hoisted partly over my shoulder so I can step down the steps to the ground safely. And then that was when the trouble started.

I noticed that a few passengers were waiting for the train I was on to arrive. Common courtesy, for the world, is to let the passengers debark/exit first. Well, I see all of them waiting for me to get off with my bike, except one that was walking across the entrance/exit. Or what I thought.

All of a sudden this immigrant, or my fucking luck, an illegal alien, stopped and started to put one foot on the step of the entrance I was getting off from. Well you know me readers, I saw this rudeness and immediately addressed the situation.

The person looks at me with no emotion or perhaps "the pissed off look" this person was trying to convey to me. Not in this person's lifetime. Granted, this person may have not been an immigrant or an illegal alien, but this person could have been Puerto Rican or Hispanic or may be a Latino. I say I could care less, but I fucking bet it was an immigrant. Regardless, I stopped going down the steps and looked at this person, with my sunglasses on and say quite loudly and firmly "Excuse me." I saw the crowd outside the door all of a sudden look at me and not to mention the people near the exit/entrance of the train. I did not hesitate nor did I move one inch. I got all the time in the world. The crowd sense/heard there might be an event for the 10 PM news so everyone's eyes were either on me or the other person.

While all that was transpiring around us, I got the continued look from this person getting on the train. After about 5 seconds or so the person took their foot off the step and stepped back onto the platform. (Pictured is a the best picture of the Light rail train and the entrance/exit) Then, I continued to step down and off the train. I purposely moved my bike toward this person so they would have to wait and back up until I pass by/get off completely. Oh yes, this person did not expect this sort of confrontation, but sure in hell will get a response from this American. Metaphorically, this person's "train" stopped with me. As I got off the train I immediately set my bike down on the platform directly in the person's path and said "No Habla Anglais? - Get the fuck out of my way." politely and walked my bike off. I did not look around. Nor could I hear was was being said by anyone or if there was silence I could not hear that either. I once more had Tiesto playing "Just Be" in my earphones and really did not care what someone had to say about this incident.

And that was that. Does trouble come looking for me? Do I look for trouble? I do not know.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The Days of August Have Arrived

Greetings Readers

Once more I have nothing noteworthy to write for today. Yes, I have been busy. Still working out my thoughts, final thoughts, on the Tour. Note - Iban Mayo has tested positive for EPO. Too bad. Yes, that is Mayo pictured on today's blog.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete