May Day - Opinion Day

Greetings Readers

Tell me Readers. What do you think, in my ex-co-workers words, would look “just so awesome” on my bike I have chosen to take for the Ride the Rockies next week.

I recently received my new HED front rim and have installed on Andrea.

I have the H3D front rim on with the yellow Michelin tire and then I kept the back Jet C2 HED rim on the back with a blue Michelin tire.

The HED rims do not match, but after riding on the mis-matched HED rims for about two weeks I have come to look upon Andrea and the mis-match HED rims do not look that bad.

I want Andrea to match, but riding on the HED H3D front rim for the past two weeks I have to admit it really does not look that bad. I was worried about the not matching and perhaps looking pretty awkward, but in reality it looks okay to me.

Both are deep-dished rims and made by the same company. When I mounted the front rim and had the back Jet C2 rims on I have to admit that the rims actually work together.

The coloring and the rims actually worked together – harmony.

So Readers, I ask of you, should I use the two Jet C2 HED rims I have or should I use the H3D front rim and the rear Jet C2 HED rim?

I have less than a week and I need some input. I have an idea and I am going to go with it, unless I feel (hear) you Readers think otherwise. Sorry Readers, I cannot tell you Readers what I think works.

So, please tell me. I have posted a picture of the mis-matched rims and then you can see at the top of my blog site the 2 HED Jet C2 rims in matched harmony. Ignore the color of Michelin tires and see if you can decide if mis-matched or matched rims would be better. I did change the color scheme of the Michelin tires since this post, but that is irrelevant since I am asking if the matched or mis-matched HED rims work together.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Star Trek Day

Greetings Readers

The new Star Trek movie.

Blasphemy.

NOTE: I talk about the movie on this post so this is a spoiler alert!! I am going to talk about the movie and certain parts of the movie and in case you do not want to know please do not read any further.

I was against this new movie when I first heard someone (a certain director) was going to make an early Star Trek movie based upon the Starfleet academy days of Kirk. After all, in my mind there is no way that someone could make a prequel Star Trek movie and make it work. Look at the Star Wars Prequels – Great, but just not right.

A year ago I saw some of the cast’s name and I have to admit I did not know about 7/8’s of the characters. Though I saw the actor from “Harold and Kumar …” who was pegged to play Sulu and then I saw the actor who was pegged to play Scotty. That actor played the lead road in the movie “Shaun of the Dead.”

Perhaps you may know of these two actors who were chosen from comedy movies they have made. I saw this and assumed how these two actors could represent the new Star Trek movie seriously. How?

As the release date got pushed back from 2008 Christmas to this 2009 Spring I was worried about the movie. Any time a movie gets “bumped” to a later date you start to wonder if the movie’s editing was not good – at all. Or if the movie just sucks.

Well, I was bias and it showed. After all Readers – there is no Star Trek movie better than Star Trek II - the Wrath of Khan.

Needless to say, I was actually hearing good things about the new Star Trek movie. The “young” characters actually were “in line” with the old series characters on the original Star Trek TV show.

That being said, I had to see the new movie, which at this point of time the movie has been out for a month. I admit Readers; I saw the trailer and was a bit turned off on what I saw.

But it was the words of my current boss that changed my mind.

Little did I know I was wrong on my initial opinion, but the new movie is still blasphemy as I write this blog post.

I have to admit I got drawn into the movie in about 10 minutes or so. I believed in the character of Kirk and then what sealed the deal was “Bones.” I could actually see this younger “Bones” being the “Bones” I knew of. Dr. Leonard McCoy. That actor got Dr. McCoy down to a T and I am impressed.

He did look like a younger “Bones” and had the same attitude of “Bones” would have had.

In the first 15 to 30 minutes of the movie I was sitting with my back against the movie chair set. Little did I know that I would be sitting at the edge of my seat for the next hour and a half.

The Young Spock and the rest of the Enterprise Crew were the crew we “Old School” viewers knew of.

Now, the movie was far from perfect. I did not like the idea of Spock ejecting Kirk from the Enterprise. I did not like the idea of Old Spock seeing young Spock. I did not like seeing Wyonna Ryder as Spock’s mother, but I have to say it really worked. I did not like the “new” timeline of this new Star Trek movie, but I understand that this was the really only way that this new movie could work.

I did enjoy the movie and I especially liked the part when the Enterprise, supposedly in control of Sulu emerges from the clouds of Saturn. Fucking awesome to see the Enterprise rise from the clouds of Saturn. I also liked seeing that Spock was the creator of the infamous no win scenario, even though thinking about that scene it was not true, since Spock sacrificed himself for the no win scenario.

I know, I know “the needs of the many outweigh the few, or the one.”

I also had a hard time in accepting the young Scotty. To me the acting was over the top, again - in my opinion. He acted like Scotty, as if he was drunk, but there was no sign(s) of any bottles or glasses that would assume alcohol.

I did have a hard time accepting Spock ejecting Kirk from the Enterprise. The Spock I know of would not have done that – even being half human. Spock was a stickler to the rules until Star Trek II, when he “exaggerated.” Spock did not lie, he “exaggerated” and that was due to him knowing Kirk. Otherwise, there was no leeway

I hated to see Spock’s mother died, I hated seeing Planet Vulcan destroyed, I did not like the Kobayshi Maru simulation and I disliked the idea of the this new Star Trek movie from the pre-production. Yet, after seeing this new movie of Star Trek I was able to accept was told from the director’s point of view.

However, I do hope to see a future Star Trek movie, but in my mind it will be a parallel universe. Right or wrong – it is wrong to me and that makes all other Star Trek lore false.

J.J Abrams got the young Star Trek cast to match the old cast characters persona and even incorporate the old sounds of the original Star Trek series. For that I am ever so grateful.

In closing, I really want a movie poster of the Enterprise that is shown on this blog. I know what that scene means to me and that is the Enterprise under the command of Kirk escaping from a certain death in the movie.

The Enterprise and her original crew are what make Star Trek what it is.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - An Award Plaque Day

Greetings Readers

I am very proud of my parent’s plaque they received at the end of last year – 2008.

My parents received a wooden plaque from the Sandoval County 4-H Amigos.

How many of my Blog Readers can admit to their parents getting something like that? There was even a dinner thrown for my parents, but they did not know about the dinner until after it had taken place. This was due to very limited phone access and our mailbox being 50 miles away. My parents did apologize to them and explained that they did not get the notice until after it was over.

You Readers may or may not know, but I do respect my parents very much. So, when I saw an award plaque hanging at the Ranch and heard the story I was moved to tell and show you Readers of my parent’s recognition.

Yes Readers, I have taken out my parent’s name on the picture. If it is that important then I am sure that you Readers could perhaps find out, but otherwise I protect the privacy of my parents.

The plaque is hanging in between the kitchen and living room in my parent’s humble abode for all to see should we have company. After all, how many can brag that they were honored by 4-H in our area of New Mexico.

I am bragging Readers and I am not going to apologize for bragging. I am happy to tell you Readers this. There is nothing for me to be ashamed of. My parents helped out and were recognized at the end of 2008. The plaque may be just a plaque, but to me and my parents – it means a lot to be recognized for helping out.

I know Readers, some Readers do not care and could care less and I do believe in your opinions and views. If the roles were reversed I too may or may not think this means anything at all.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Manure Day

Greetings Readers

There was nothing specific, well urgent, that needed to be done at the Ranch by me. Oh Readers there are a lot of things that needed to be done. Yet, I wanted to do something that I wanted to do. Meaning, I wanted to be able to complete in a day or in the time I am down at the Ranch on my supposedly “vacation.”

I saw that the winter-feeding area was full of cow shit.

From past blogs I have always told you Readers what I have done, but never had the camera to take the before and after shots of my work.

This time I was ready!

So, Readers I decided to take the before pictures of the area that I was going to clean up all the cow manure in the winter-feeding area. And boy oh boy there was a lot of manure to clean up. Thank goodness none of the manure was fresh. Oh the picture was taken about 3:25 PM.

I took some pictures on where I thought I was going to clean up. Little did I know that my Mother and I were able to clean more manure up than we thought. So, you Readers are only seeing about 2/3 of the area that we actually cleaned up together.

Yes, my Mother did come and help out after a while. No Readers I did not ask for help or even hinted for help. This was something I wanted to do and something I wanted to see accomplished – preferably at the end of this day. And further yet – of course to brag to you Readers of another work duty I did on the Ranch.

Two wheelbarrows, a rake and two shovels were all it took to clean up the winter-feeding area. Oh, there were a couple cans of Cherry Dr. Pepper and Sun tea to help with the work out in the afternoon sun.

The area looks small from the pictures, but once I got started I did not know how tough raking manure around was going to be. I planned to have several large piles of manure as opposed to a lot of small piles of manure. Yet, raking and raking manure around the vegetation and rocks proved to be more difficult than I thought. Not to mention that raking manure over the areas where I have already raked was kind of discouraging to do.

I changed tactics and starting raking in a circle. I stood in the middle of an imaginary circle and then starting raking 360 degrees. Once I cleared that circle I moved onto the next patch of ground and repeated. Soon, that got to be tedious so I raked in a rectangle.

The only part that we did not clean up was where the cow died the day before. Her calf for the past day was staying in the exact area where her mother died. We were worried that the calf would go wondering all over the Ranch land, but instead in stayed in the area where her mother died. That was a good thing, so my Mother and I raked around and left the area untouched were the cow died.

Now, the after pictures have the sun in the shot and I think the time was about 6:19 PM or so. The light and picture contrast was different, but I hope that you can see the area is clean. Pretty darn clean as far as the eye can see from this point of view.

Now, cleaning up manure is nothing new and will forever be there. Yet, there is a certain satisfaction in cleaning up an area that is full of manure.

Oh this was just another warm up for what was to come the following day. Just like the day before burying the cow – just a warm up.

Now, we have Branding and giving medicine / shots to the cows, heifers and calfs. Usually, it is myself, Mom and Dad – sometimes my brother. This time around it is going to be three people. I often say I don’t look forward to this part of my vacation, but once I get started I really get into it.

Oh Dad messed up the cleaned area the following day by feeding the cattle in the newly cleaned area of cow shit. No, I was not mad – not at all.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Back from Vacation Day

Greetings Readers

I am going to recap some moments while I was on vacation…

This is the first sighting of my first lizard of 2009.

I did not think it was proper to show you the cow that died within hours before me showing up at the Ranch so that is why I am posting a picture of something living. Also, I would hate for any of you Ranchers try to claim this dead cow as yours and try to write it off on next year’s taxes as a loss.

Damn Readers.

I have not even reached the main gate of the Ranch when I saw that we had some work to do ahead of us.

Usually upon arriving at the Ranch I go to the room that I stay in when I come up for vacation and get situated. Also, we unload our groceries and whatnot before leaving Albuquerque. More often than not I sometimes just lay down to catch some sleep after unloading. Not this time.

I unloaded my stuff and then it was time to get the cow buried.

I do not know what other Ranchers do with their dead animals, but I have seen them basically do nothing. Meaning, they leave the animals lay as they died. And there is a reason why. You Readers, you try moving a dead horse, a dead cow, or a dead bull. Dead weight. I will tell you it is almost impossible to move by hand.

And us Ranchers in this part of New Mexico do not own tractors. Tractors are kind of useless in our part of the state – not to mention nothing really to justify owning a tractor at the elevation we are at.

Unlike our neighbors we bury our dead animals. Such as the horse who passed away the past six months or so. Let me tell what is even sadder – it is not even our horse. We were taking care of the horse for a family member and the horse has past away from old age. Not since the horse died has our family member even inquired about his horse is doing.

Well, their horse died outside our corral and there was no way to move that 1-ton plus horse. Also, the ground was solid and frozen. That being said, we just covered the horse with dirt and now there is a mound outside our corral.

Cows, Bulls what not do not really look for a place to die at. If they do die they die right where they are. Unlike some animals that know death is near they try to go the place they know.

I digress. I changed clothes and then headed off to where my Dad had already dragged the cow to a nearby arroyo for burial. My dad hooked up the Ford, the tow cable and the dragged the cow to a nearby arroyo.

I shortly arrived where my Father towed the cow and then we discussed where to put the cow. We located a spot in the arroyo and then tried rolling the cow. No fucking way. That cow was heavy with dead weight. Heavy. We pulled and pulled as hard as we dared, but the cow did not move an inch. So, My Dad hopped into the Truck and then drove to the other side of the arroyo. We were going to have to hook up the towing strap and then drag the cow into the arroyo from the other side of the arroyo.

Ten minutes later we got the cow into the arroyo and now was the time to place rocks over the dead cow. Reason being, we do not want any coyotes, wild dogs or black birds to ravage the dead cow carcass.

We could not use small rocks, but large rocks. Coyotes and wild dogs are able to move small rocks when they are hungry enough for food. So, we had to go and get some large rocks and bring them to the arroyo.

Oh man oh man. That was tough. All three of us. My father, my Mother and I walked here and there looking for large rocks and stones. My Mother had the wheel barrel while my Father and I had to carry our rocks to the Arroyo.

About 10 to 15 minutes pass when I decided to head over to the area that my Dad was picking up rocks from. I see that he moved a rock and then steps back. I kind of looked at him and decided to help him get a hand on the large rock.

I position myself on one side of the rock. And then I hear my Dad calmly say

“Watch out for the snake.”

Readers, in our part of the United States when you say snake you automatically know what to expect. Rattlesnake. There is no other snake that you can really count to see or expect. No Copper mouths, no Water Moccasins snakes, no Gardner snake. Just Rattlesnakes and the Diamondback Rattlesnakes.

Fuck me Readers. I fucking moved like a football wide receiver going for the game-winning pass. I zigged this way and zagged that way. I know that a snake is not fast, but my thinking at that moment I heard my Father say “Watch out for the Snake” was to run and run not in a straight line.

I can fucking laugh now, but at that moment I was worrying about not getting bit - I was scairt. In the area where we reside any snakebite could be fatal if not treated in time. We are literally in the middle of nowhere and the only help is the flight for life, via helicopter. Otherwise, after getting bit by a rattlesnake you have a very long drive to the nearest hospital / clinic for an antidote / treatment.

Readers, I moved like my ass was on fire. I was worried since I literally did not know where the snake was since I did not see where it was, until I was about 15 to 20 yards south of where my Dad said that statement to me.

I finally looked back and saw my Father almost in the same spot looking at where the snake was. Baby Rattler, pink and resting under the large rock. Baby Rattlers are the worst since apparently they are more poisonous that an adult Rattler. Even more of a reason for to run like I was running from five O. Hah hah. Again Readers, I can laugh and make this humorous, but when this actually happened it was not funny.

The snake was eventually killed since we could not afford to lose a cow to a snakebite by a cow accidentally stepping on a Rattlesnake. The snake was close to the area where our cows, heifers and calfes gather so we had to be sure to get rid of the danger of losing cattle to a Rattlesnake.

Readers, My father would never put me in harm or in danger. And with him knowing this particular son he knew that I would fucking move like my ass was on fire. He was right and there is no resentment or anything from me to him. Damn, I saw the smile on his face and then registered that he had just woken up the Rattler and knew there was no immediate danger. Thank goodness, I can run and have a few Marathons under my belt.

However, for the next 30 minutes I was scarred and scared. I was being very, very careful on moving any rocks I saw and needed. I moved, lifted the rock and then listened very, very carefully for that unmistakable rattle of a Rattlesnake.

Again, I can laugh and write humorously about this, but at that moment in time I was like a scared bitch - waiting to be slapped, in a manner of speaking.

Eventually we got all the rocks we needed for the burial of the cow.

Not to leave you Readers on a sad note, but let me tell you Readers, there is nothing sadder than seeing and hearing a calf standing in the area where it’s Mother died. The calf mooing and waiting for its Mother to come. Sad to see and sadder to hear the cow’s mooing in the dark of a moonless night in New Mexico.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Sticker's Day

Greetings Readers

I got these two stickers from a lady who helped us "Urban Bike models" out at the 2009 Green Festival.

I have seen these stickers before and I have to admit that I have ALWAYS wanted one for myself.

Now, I have one. Well, I have two stickers, as opposed to just one. Nope not Greedy, I was given two stickers - so there.

And, well the stickers are just not that cool. Meaning, the stickers are not cool enough to adhere to any of bikes. Or to be blunt – there is no fucking way that I am going to put those stickers on my bike.

Basically, the stickers represents the amount it costs to ride a bike. Zero dollars.

I still do not have a clue on what or where to put these two stickers. I do like them, but I just do not know where to stick them. If I had a bike trailer then I could see myself sticking those stickers to the trailer. Other than that thought I do not know what to do with them. With that said, I guess I will put them in my bedroom and forget about them until I think about them again.

If there is a moral to this blog post – sometimes when something you desire you get - you really do not desire anymore.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - No Permit Day

Greetings Readers

In the past week I guess the required RTD Light Rail Bike Pass has been eliminated, in a manner of speaking.

What I mean is that my Light Rail Bike Pass is obsolete.

I kind of compare myself to that fictional character Carlito Briganti in that movie Carlito’s Way.

“Old School.”

How many of you bike riders in the Denver area can claim and show their RTD Light Rail Bike pass?

Up until recently I was more than legit (and probably the only blogger that can verify) that could actually say that I had the right to bring my bike on the Light Rail Train. Whereas, all you bike riders out there could not back up that fact with the required RTD Light Rail Bike Pass.

Does that make me better than you? No. Yet, it does make me one step better than you, meaning at least I had a RTD Light Rail Bike Pass and you didn’t. And I was not breaking the law.

What inspired this blog post was that I saw a huge sign on the driver’s window between the cab and light rail passenger car on how to load and stay on the Light Rail with your bike.

My first thought was who in the world fucked it up finally for the rest of us bike riders who have been following the rules (guidelines).

Who has to be the asshole to not to stand with their bike at the end of the Light Rail Car? I see riders from time to time stand with their bike in the aisles or even in the middle of the Light Rail Car. I do not have a problem with boarding from the middle of the car if you know the Light Rail Car is going to leave at any moment. After all, I do not want to miss a Light Rail car and have to wait for another Light Rail Train, which could be up to another 15 minutes. Let me tell you Readers I curse like a Sailor if I missed that Light Rail Train, because I try boarding at the end of the Light Rail Car as the doors are closing. And most of the time the Driver has done something in the cab that makes the doors stay shut once that close and will not open even if I push that green button to open those doors. So, if I see those doors a closing then I will make haste to the nearest door, which most of the time is the middle of the Light Rail Car and stick my leg into the doors to interrupt the door from closing. I then board in the middle of the Light Rail Train and then head to the end of the Light Rail Car.

Who was the motherfucker who would not move from sitting on the sit with his/her bike at rush hour while other passengers were looking for a place to sit? What I mean is that every now and then I see some bike riders sit on the seat while holding onto their bike in the aisle during morning and / or evening rush hour. These riders ignore the other passengers who do not have bikes and will not move from their seat. I do not have a problem if there are hardly any riders, but I have seen this type of situation more often than not and these bike rider(s) refuse to give up their seat, when in fact they are required to stand at the end of the Light Rail Car.

Those are just a couple of thoughts that I immediately thought when I saw that posted sign on the Light Rail Trains driver’s window. Again - Who in the world fucked it up for me and now how harder are the Light Rail Security personnel going to be on me? I despise them already (but not for the reason you probably do) and I did not need to feel more spite for them, in case they are going to be watching us bike riders closely when on and off the Light Rail Train.

Most of the time I have my Ipod on, my Oakleys on and trying to mind my own business. Yes Readers, trying. I know that I do not do a good job of minding my business, but there are times when someone else (another passenger) is breaking the rules posted, I have an attitude and decide that is the moment for me to get involved or start some shit. Whether to be right, to be an asshole or just to get myself pumped up for no reason than just to see how my interaction is going to turn out.

After that morning revelation I decided to check out the RTD website and I see on the web page that the required RTD Light Rail Bike Pass has been eliminated for good. No longer required.

Now, it is time for this old dinosaur bike rider to “retire” his RTD Light Rail Bike Pass for good.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - T Shirt Day

Greetings Readers

Over the weekend I decided that I needed to wash some T-shirts. When I say some – I meant all of my T-shirts.

And there is a lot.

With me running and biking over the past 12 years I have accumulated a lot of T-shirts. I think all of the T-shirts I have all came included with my registration fee. Meaning that I have never paid extra for a T-shirt. Oh yes, some events like the Run the Republic… Oops no longer know as the Run the Republic… but if you “raise” money to a certain level, I think it was (is) $ 45.00 dollars, you get a free T-shirt. Otherwise, you usually get a “free” T-shirt with your registration to the event.

Yet, as I have written in my past events I pay for everything myself. I do not believe in asking for money from other people for an event that I want to participate in. I am not comfortable asking for a contribution nor do I want to put anyone in the position to think they have to contribute.

Believe me Readers, I know people who cannot shut the fuck up nor stop asking me, or others, for a donation to an event they are competing in. I have to admit I do hate those people, but only for what they are doing – asking for a contribution. Beyond that I do not hate those people.

Well, I digress. I have talked about that subject before and it seems never to get old for me. After all, at work in the past month I knew a co-worker who was posting on our local classified ads that this person needed to raise money. Well, not like that, but this person needed x amount of dollars before they are able to run in a marathon relay. If this person wanted to race then that person should have set aside some funds in order to compete.

I believe in contribution, but believe me readers that person is not going to be the determining factor in whatever event he/she is contributing to…

Damn, I am still digressing.

Okay – T-shirts. I have lost some T-shirts from some events, but overall I have all my T-shirts for the past 12 years. And most of them I keep in one of those blue plastic tubs you can pick up at Wal-mart or Target.

And the rest, which I would have to estimate I have about 20 T-shirts on my shelf. Mostly I, and sometimes when I have company, they borrow a T-shirt to sleep in or to use in the morning after she spends the night.

I do keep out and wear my favorite T-shirts, but then I also have the T-shirts that I can get dirty. Dirty, meaning grease, what not that could ruin a T-shirt. I know Readers, I know, it is just a T-shirt. And you are right, but sometimes I see a perfect T-shirt and well I just have to wear and show that bad boy off.

With that being said I really decided to look at all the T-shirts I have and take a picture of them. Unfortunately, I could not lay them all out without making the T-shirts small in the picture. So, I laid some on the living room floor of my humble abode and then stood on the end of my couch and snapped away.

The picture did not even come close to what I thought it might look like. I thought all those T-shirts in the picture would be cool looking, but after taking a few shots the pictures did not come out the way I thought. Perhaps the layout, perhaps the lighting, or perhaps it was not a picture to be taken.

I try to wash all my T-shirts every now and then. Even though that blue plastic container is air tight, there is a smell that gets into my T-shirt. Not mothball like, not musty, but just some smell – perhaps from the plastic container? I do not know. No big deal to wash them to get the smell out.

I get to see those T-shirts again after being in storage for x amount of time. Remember the past, remember that day and remember another accomplishment in my life that I am proud to have done for others and myself in need. I personally helped out MS, ADA, Children’s Hospital, to name just a few charities. Besides the first couple of years in my athletic life that I did ask for donation, I have not asked for any donations since then. All donations have been raised and paid personally for by me.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Happy Mother's Day

Greetings Readers

Happy Mother's Day - to all the mother's who may have read this from a stranger and needed to hear this from someone to feel that they needed to hear this from someone

And also to my mother - Happy Mother's Day - just in case we do not get to talk to each other live. And that she may be reading this blog today. Also, yes I will cooking a meal for you when I do go down to the Ranch within the month

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Free Chicken Day

Greetings Readers

“I want my free Chicken.”

The shorter of the two African-American (Black) men said to the KFC employee who was also an African-American man. And this specific person did not even say the magic word – please – when asking for his free chicken.

Note: If something is offered for free you should say please – common courtesy. That was the way I was raised and really Readers this is just fucking common courtesy anyone should know.

“Listen up. There is no free chicken,” the KFC employee said to the short African-American man. Then, the KFC employee stood tall and then looked at the rest of customers waiting in line to order.

“There is no free Chicken for anyone!” He repeated so everyone in line could hear and understand.

I looked over the customers behind me and the customers looked bewildered. Matter of fact, each of those customers had an 8 ½ by 11 white piece of paper in their hand. They looked and murmured amongst themselves.

I stood there with my arms crossed on my chest and a smile – I was busting.

Busting, but keeping quiet.

My friend that was with me in KFC also stood just like a statue next to me. The taller of the African-American man in front of us then started to talk to my friend

“Hell, they should give us free chicken for making us wait.” He said to my friend.

“Hm-hm,” my friend replied.

“I have been waiting for about 15 minutes to order” the taller African-American man uttered so that all the customers, including the KFC employee, could hear. “I am getting really hungry. Matter of fact it might be until 5 until I get to order.”

I kept silent.

An Asian woman behind us asked my friend “I have this coupon - does he mean this?”

“No, he’s talking about that free 2 piece coupon that was available to print out and you can take to KFC for free chicken.” He pointed to the others in line with that white piece of paper in each of their hands.

“Your coupon is okay.” My friend finished.

Meanwhile, that shorter of the two African-American men was at the counter, shaking his head in a manner to show that he could not believe that he was not going to get his free chicken. He also whispering (I could not hear) to the taller African-American man and I could tell he was pissed. Not mad. But pissed-off. Matter of fact Readers, he would be at the state of pissed off that I might have been in that same position if it was me, perhaps.

The taller African-American man then looks at me and then starts to talk to us once more.

“They should have told us that they are not giving out free chicken before I waited 15 minutes in line.”

Readers, my friend and I have been waiting about 15 minutes also. We saw a few people come in and leave since they saw the length of the line. In that time, I have been minding my manners. Matter of fact, I was not the son of a bitch I usually am in a situation as this. Which by the way – screams get involved - to me! Come on and start some shit!

But I did not. Two reasons why, first and foremost my friend was also an African-American man and anything I might say to the two African-Americans men may be taken the “wrong” way to my friend. I could offend my friend with my actions, well in this case, my words. What I may think may be funny, may not be funny to my friend.

The second reason is I needed a ride back to work. Granted, work was about a mile away, but that still a walk as opposed to be being driven back to work.

As the taller African-American man finished his sentence to me I politely, softly, and calmly replied.

“Well, if he would have read the sign…” I replied loud enough for the shorter African-American to hear me “posted on the front door he would have read that this KFC is unable to give any free chicken away and in order to get the free chicken you would need to fill out a form and get a rain check.” And I pointed to the front door.

The front door still had the white piece of paper with the words telling customers what was what and what needed to be done to get free chicken.

I smiled even more so that was even possible.

The taller African-American man followed my pointing finger and then I saw the shorter African-American man follow the same path line of sight.

Fuck ya. I was polite and I was right. Fuck me - I was fucking proud pointing this out to the shorter African-American man.

I know of this particular KFC employee since I have seen him almost every two weeks when I come in for lunch at this specific KFC and I am sure that he knows of me. I did not particularly care that some customer was getting upset at “my” KFC employee for not giving away free chicken. After all, I do stick up for the “little people” and at this point it was my time to say something. I could not hold my tongue any longer.

After the two African-American men looked at the front door that was the end of the complaining and comments that were being made in line for amusement, I assumed, to themselves and the rest of the customers in line.

Minutes later, my friend and I were ordering our bucket of wings. I saw the shorter African-American man walk to the restroom and that was the end of that.

As my friend and I were leaving I could see that someone tore off the posted paper on the glass door that indicated to the customers that they would not get their free chicken and needed to fill out a form. I just shook my head in a no manner and even though I do not know for a fact, but I am betting that the short African-American man ripped off that sign in anger for my comments five minutes ago.

My smile was still good and I have to say I got a bigger smile since in the end I was right and I did it politely, without arguing or raising my voice in a pissed off way.

In conclusion, I could have agreed with everyone in line and even added my two cents, but I did not. First of all, I was not there for free chicken. And two, I could fucking care less – I had my weekly allowance of $ 30.00 these days and I was ready to buy some KFC hot wings. I had no reason to ask, debate, riot, protest or support for the free chicken offer.

Believe me Readers – there were a lot of things I wanted to say out loud in line – “If you are so hungry then you can go to Taco Bell. There is no one keeping you from leaving right?” “If you would have had read sign, which I presume you can read, the you would not be complaining like you are right now, right?” “Subway is over in the strip mall and as that jingle goes five dollar foot longs” and as my former boss would say “Sucks to be you”

And so forth. No need to give you Readers something to say since this sort of situation may happen to you.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Happy Birthday

Greetings Readers

Pretty Simple - Happy Birthday to my Brother.

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Apology Day

Greetings Readers

“I Apologize”

You faithful Readers know I rarely apologize and hardly apologize for any of my actions or interactions with others unless it is truly something I need to apologize for.

Yet, I do have to apologize - today - to my Readers and to the unknown people I have met in my travels that are not aware of this blog I have.

Flashback – The first day of the Green Festival Bike Show at the Colorado Convention Center in Downtown Denver.

There I was standing in line with about 20 other bikers getting ready to show off their bikes to the attendees of the Green Festival. Specifically, to the woman from San Francisco with the old style Bianchi bike that now lives in Denver.

Before actually saying “Hi” to her I looked at her bike and thought that looks likes a piece of shit. What I mean Readers, that bike does not look anything special to me. It does not look vintage, hell it does not look beautiful. More to the point, she spent 2K and to me it still looks like a piece of shit. (P.O.S.)

I think, about 6 hours later I soon came to realize that was I in her shoes at a point in time in my past. Yes Readers, that woman was me.

Meaning, my French racing bike – the Motobecane.

I am so fucking proud of my Motobecane that she is the only bike that does not have a “Girl’s” name in my collection. When I say “Motobecane” - old school riders and bike riders who think they know bikes know the word Motobecane look and listen to what I may have to say and show. Hell, the people who know about bikes stop and comment when I ride my Motobecane.

Readers, with that said here is what I realize. I talk about the original metal clips I have for the pedals, the rim that I had to have restrung, the original paint job and gearing located on the slant frame as opposed to the handlebar area of the bike we bike riders are used to seeing. I also brag about the weight of the bike and the steel that is on the bike. I like telling people that I have the original braking parts that I still have on the handlebars.

Now Readers, you just read what was said to me about their bikes at the Bike Denver Fashion show and what I say to people when talking / showing my Motobecane.

I do not have a clue whether or not an old looking bike is from the 70’s, 60’s or 50’s or even from Europe. To me, the old looking bikes look like shit and are just old looking. BUT. I just realized that is me from a road bike perspective as opposed to the everyday old time bikes that were made during those decades in the past.

If I was just an ordinary bike rider I would have most likely taken an interest in most of those bikes at the Bike Denver Show, but I did not. To me all the old “so called” vintage bikes looked the same to me.

Then, I realized that I was them when I ride, talk and show my old school Motobecane to other people and riders who are not familiar with old French racing bikes. To them my Motobecane probably looks like a piece of shit. Matter of fact, they are probably wondering the same thing – How much I paid to have one of my rims re-strung? How come I have not painted my Motobecane? How come I have not replaced those old broken metal toe pedal clips?

With that realization “I am sorry Readers.”

I guess the thing that I did learn was that I found this out all by myself as opposed to someone else pointing that out to me.

In closing, those old bikes were and are nice and I am sure were a hit of the Bike Denver Fashion show. I just hope that my bike, the only road bike, was not too “odd looking” at the bike show. In my view, I was not showing the entire bike off – just the rims. But as seeing this was a bike show I neglected to realize that I was not just showing off my rims, but the entire bike. At least I did clean up Andrea and put on new White Bandannas.

Again Readers “I apologize” for thinking that bike of yours is a P.O.S. not realizing that you too may be thinking the same exact thing about my Motobecane.

P.S. I am only apologizing to the vintage bike owners. I am not apologizing to you bike riders who have bikes that look and are P.O.S. bikes. Rust, dents, and just plain fucked up bikes are just P.O.S. bikes.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Cinco de Mayo Day

Greetings Readers

Let us remember Cinco de Mayo - the day Mexico defeated the French.

Or in the context that us Americans really celebrate Cinco de Mayo

To fucking drink and party. Shallow, but mostly true I have to admit.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Bitch Day

Greetings Readers

“Bitch!”

I shouted as I rode down/up the street in the gutters of Dry Creek. Seconds later I faintly heard the car horn as she apparently laid into after hearing or seeing my mouth form that word any lip or non lip readers would know what was being said.

I had the light and I was actually riding the crosswalk, but she, the driver, did the rolling stop and was going to roll through on her right hand turn onto Dry Creek without coming to a complete stop. She did not stop, hell she only stopped when she saw me in the crosswalk. I was not pissed off before that moment or at that moment, but this morning I felt that I needed to just shout that particular word out.

I know, I know Readers I have said that is just a word, but sometimes just saying that makes me feel good. Not the word specifically. It could be “Fuck!” “Shit!” “Damn!” “Son of a Bitch!” or “Motherfucker!”

I am not saying that word makes me feel better, but just shouting that out every now and then makes me feel like… like I do not know how to explain it.

I knew when she stopped in the middle of the crosswalk lines she was not going to back up or move. I immediately got ready for anything. I had the Oakleys on so she could not see me eyeballing her. I had my Bandanna on my head wrapped pirate style and probably looked like a mother fucking road biker who thinks he owns the road.

I rode in the crosswalk closer and closer to her vehicle. I was hoping that she was going to speed off onto Dry Creek. If that was going to be the case, I was going to make sure I was going to be in her way. I do not know people nor would I know people, but I was guessing (assuming) she was the type to stop as opposed to thinking that I was going to move out of her way.

I got closer and closer to the driver’s side window and then shouted directly at her “Bitch!” and then swerved right in front of her vehicle as close as I could without touching her vehicle. As I rode past the front of her vehicle she laid into the horn. I was not startled; matter of fact I could hardly hear the horn.

Now, the question was – is she going to drive as close as she dares to me when I am riding in the gutter of Dry Creek in the same direction we both were going? No, I did not think so. However, I did think that she would be the type to honk the horn as she drove by me. Neither happened, she was in the far left lane as I saw her vehicle go by out of the corner of my left eye. There was no need to raise a finger or shout more profanity for the vehicle’s horn honk.

After yelling, “Bitch!” I felt that I was becoming the biker guy personality I do become about this time of the year. Arrogant, confidant, and the sarcastic son of a bitch I usually am during this part of the year.

Readers – I do not condone, support nor suggest this type of interaction with any vehicles you may encounter while bike riding. We all may have heard stories, read articles and watched TV and have heard of bike riders being hurt, killed or murdered for acts like me just shouting “Bitch!” to a driver of a vehicle on the streets. She was wrong for the rolling stop and stopping in the crosswalk (which is against the law). But for me to do what I did was not something that should be done in a scenario like this.

I do live to tell a story for another day, but there is always tomorrow that there may not be another story for you Readers.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - My Day

Greetings Readers

The Green Festival - Denver Urban bike show was alright. Well, perhaps better than alright, but I guess I was expecting a bit more.

Though, I am ever so grateful for being chosen (whether or not there were a lot of bike rider to choose from or not – I do not know) to be in the Denver Bike Show.

Earlier that day I went to REI to get some new Bandannas for Andrea. I thought about using the current Bandannas on the handlebars, but I figured that the lights that may be used for the runway would not reflect the “whiteness” of the white bandannas.

I looked around REI looking for anything and nothing.

Several hours later I saw that time was getting away from me and I needed to leave for the Colorado Convention Center. I knew that I had to be at the Convention Center by 2:15, but I also knew that the Light Rail Station from Arapahoe Road takes about 40 minutes to get down to 16th street Mall. Point being I was going to be late.

I grabbed my street clothes, my helmet, my running shoes and backpack and I ran out the door. I rode to the Light Rail Station and waited about 10 minutes and then it dawned on me that I forgot my digital Camera. It was too fucking late to bike home and get it since I was already running late. I could not even go to Target (for a disposable camera) since I was afraid the next Light Rail train might not come by for another 20 minutes since it was the weekend schedule as opposed to the weekday schedule, which I am sure that Light Rail Train operates more frequently.

“Fuck Me” I said, “Fuck” And over and over I cussed out loud and silently. How in the fuck could I leave my camera on the couch? I knew that I should not have taken the camera out of my backpack.

2:15 PM - I was at the 10th and Osage Light Rail Station waiting for another Light Rail Train to take me into Denver as opposed to Union Station. While waiting there a group to three young “Sista’s” showed up. The youngest one came up to my bike and touched the HED, Jet C2 90 mm rim and asked me a question. I could not hear her due to my ipod playing some pretty loud tunes in my ears. I said, “Please do not touch,” but I could not hear myself say that to her. She stopped and then ran back to her sisters.

2:30 I was at the Convention Center and asked the person manning the bike Denver tent where I need to go. He said follow him and that I had to carry my bike into the Convention Center.

“No problem” I responded politely.

I have to say I thought I looked pretty cool carrying my bike into the Colorado Convention Center. I got some good looks; some whispering, some finger pointing and some comments on the way to the room where I was suppose to go. In that moment of time – I loved it. I enjoyed being the center of attention.

Eventually I got to the room and the meeting that was being held prior to the show was just about over. Damn – I missed the whole thing. Well, better late than never.

I saw a lot of bikes and a lot of people in that small room. I saw old bikes, I saw huge bikes and then I saw what are bikes, but was custom made bikes. I did not see any other road bikes, specifically road racing bikes, or in the words of my ex-co-worker “just so awesome” racing road bikes.

I did not view that as a good thing or bad thing. People were dressed up, and I do not think that 1/3 of third actually dressed up that way in real life while riding their bike. Though I do not have a clue. Nor am I one to judge one’s wardrobe. Readers! I take that back and I will mention this later in this post.

Minutes later a woman was lining us up on the showing order of our runway walk.

I got sandwiched between Donna a woman who admitted to me that she had a P.O.S. bike. For you Readers P.O.S. is “Piece of Shit” mountain bike. She was “forced” to apply and that was the reason why she was showing her mountain bike. Donna was bullied into applying that she did not have the guts to apply.

Donna asked me how I got in – I told her that I just applied for the sakes of hopefully being picked to show off my rims. Donna nodded and told me that my bike was so much better than what I actually told her. Little did she know that I highly respect my bike, Andrea, and would do almost anything for her. Yet, I hardly knew her so no need to give her too much information (TMI).

The woman behind me was a pretty nice looking blonde, sort of up my alley. A nice looking woman, but something about her said “stuck up” and would not give me the time of the day. Yeah, me being judgmental, but I made the first move said “hi”

Long story short – an old Bianchi bike from 60’s, restored by her friends and cost over 2k. She is from San Francisco and that was about it. A nice blouse, tight jeans and boots that cling to her calves almost to her knees. I have to say she looked desirable – hot in a sexy sort of way to me. It must have been those heels on her black boots that made me look twice.

Almost starting time and we bike models were being kicked out of the room we were in and told to go into the hall. I soon saw the other room on where we bike models, excuse me HOT Urban bike models, were going to model.

Time passed and soon the Urban Bike Denver show started. I was near the tail end of the line – thankfully. I did not want to be the first one on the runway.

At this moment I soon saw that there was no runway. There was a raised platform in front of the room and each Hot urban bike rider had to get their bike up on that platform and stand with their bike while the MC presents each rider and their bike. On the stage was a woman with her bike, but in my humble opinion she was showing off herself. A nice black dress. Showing some serious cleavage and leg and she was getting the catcalls and wolf whistles. Not to mention the camera flashes. Fuck me – how I the hell am I going to top cleavage on the stage. I was fucked, not to mention that cleavage shot with her bike would have a better chance of being posted as opposed to me and my bike with the nice rims. After all, cleavage would win over rims.

I was okay, but as I got near the front of the line and closer to the stage I started to get nervous. I was starting to sweat in places that I normally do not sweat in. I saw the people in the room look at us, me, my bike, at the stage and then back to me. My smile I had started to fade and I started to worry.

The one thing that was mentioned that the MC might ask us a question or two on the spot.

I immediately thought of Miss California and the question that eventually made her lose the competition. I knew that there was not going to be a question as difficult as that, but Fuck me I was worried never the less.

If I stumble and fuck up I am going down in flames. Otherwise, I wanted to shine.

Donna finished up and then it was “Daryl Charley” and I started walking to the platform. I wheeled my bike to the platform and soon got some flashes from cameras, which I am assuming was because of the HED rims. I lifted my bike onto the stage and then climbed up afterwards.

Flashback – there was no way in hell I was going to wear my biking shoes down in the runway. I do slip on tile with my cleats and I did not want to risk the possibility of me falling down on stage. So, I made a point to change to my running shoes so I have traction on the runway.

Present - I wish I could remember word for word and what I saw, but I really cannot recall what went down while I was on stage.

I remember the MC saying into the mike about what I typed on my application form to participate in the Bike show, but I really do not remember exactly what was said.

I looked out into the audience and felt my eyes grow bigger and I started locking onto some pair of eyes in the audience. I was not staring at them, but I felt I was locking onto each person’s eyes I happen to look at. I do not know how long I did that – perhaps 10 seconds, perhaps 30 seconds, but when I knew I was doing that I unfocused my eyes and just looked out in the audience, but not looking.

Then, the MC asked me a question – where did I get the rims?

“HEDcycling.com”

And then something was commented on and the audience was laughing.

“You pick up any hot chicks with those rims?” the MC said something like that to me.

“Not yet.” And then I turned the bike 180 around the stage and then struck a pose.

The pose was like a body builder pose showing off his biceps and calves at the same. I was not embarrassed and it was on the spur of the moment. Oh yes, thank goodness I shaved my calves before the show. Hell yes Readers, I am that guy that does shave his calves. Not my legs since my legs do not have visible hair.

That pose I did, what ever the MC was saying and the crowd responding made everything right in my world. The buying of new bandannas, the outfit, the cleaning of the bike, and the applying for the bike show was all worth it when everyone in that room laughed and clapped for me. Or perhaps at me. Fuck it – I enjoyed my 2 minutes of fame and that is what matters for me.

I walked down the middle of the aisle and out the room and that was that. I watched the remaining part of the show, the riders that were presenting after me and I enjoyed watching.

Soon, the show was over and the room emptied. Unfortunately, I think everyone who does not know a thing about road bikes saw just another road bike when looking at my bike. What the people were interested in, to me that is, was the bikes that were custom made. The bike that had neon lights installed on the bike as well as a sound system. That tall bike with a wheel the size of four of my bikes. The Dutch bike. The bike that carries three kids.

I stood by my bike and I got a few looks, but not as many I thought I should have. After all, I too would be looking at the bike with neon lights as opposed to just another road bike.

I let some people lift my bike and the HED. rim to feel the weight, or lack of weight.

One guy came by and I think he was trying to recruit me for naked bike riding ride that is done once a year. A couple came by and was hinting towards my own enterprising project I could do on my own time. A few people asked how much the rims cost me.

And that was that – I soon left the Green Festival since I did not want to leave my bike unattended. I so wanted to see the show, but I had the HED. rims and did not want to risk them getting stolen. My pass was comped since I was participant. I know there was a bike corral, but I just did not want to take that risk of leaving my bike in the care of the bike corral attendant(s).

P.S. Readers – I really do not remember what the MC (and I just found out that the MC was apparently a DJ (I think) from the FM radio station Alice 105.9) exactly said. I heard some sentences and some words, but I was literally transfixed on myself up on that stage. Yet, after my pose, I was at ease, but then 10 seconds later my time was over.

P.S.S. And in the words of my former boss - "Sucks to be you" when I forgot my camera. Although - I am happy to see myself caught in a moment at the Green Festival Bike show by one of the many blog authors on the blog site - A yearofbikecommuting.blogspot.com or click here to see pictures that I did not get to take. I do wish I could copy and paste the picture to my blog, but alas I will not unless I ask for permission. Also posted pictures are of the many bikes that were at the show.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - 2nd Annual May Day

Greetings Readers

May Day. May Day – Blogger in trouble. Well, in not trouble per se, but getting ready for trouble.

I am actually not worried about the Bike fashion show, but I would like to show off my bike this weekend. So far I have decided to wear the green Southpark Bike jersey and then buy four new white bandannas to replace the four old white bandannas on my handlebars.

Next subject. I really do hate sacrificing the money I just spent for that one wheel I bought a couple of weeks ago. I cannot go out with friends in a manner of speaking. Well, I can with the promise that they would buy me a drink, but I am really not wanting to go out and have someone (people) buy me drinks, whatnot.

Being single I have gotten used to doing and paying for things that I need, want or desire. I feel that should someone get me something I feel indebted to him or her. Not indebted like if they save my life they are responsible for it, but I do believe in tit for tat.

When I saved the money up for the wheel this was not a spur of the moment buy. I actually planned the month, the food and my income I will allow myself for about 5 weeks. After all I too have bills to pay, food to buy, and to spend a bit for myself. Though, I had to cut out going to the grocery store every other day, buying beer, going out for lunch, riding Light Rail and buying Coca-Cola.

Now, I stay home since I cannot afford to go out. I have allowed myself $ 30.00 every Friday.

I pulled out the Playstation 2 and started playing the games I got in the past. Let me tell you Readers – that first Need for Speed – Underground game that is over five years old is so brand to me again. I am cursing, throwing that controller around and my thumb is hurting from pressing down the “gas” button on the controller trying to make my car go faster and faster. Seems like old times.

I have started making Sun Tea again. First of all I need to cut back on buying Coca-Cola and Dr Pepper and two I like fresh brewed Sun Tea with Sugar and Lemon. Yet, with drinking Sun Tea I was finding myself wide-awake for the first two weeks at about 10 PM.

Well, I finally was able to figure out how to solve that problem. I have once more started running again. Matter of fact, I was able to use one stone to solve two issues. I started running at lunch. Doing that I was able to solve not going out to eat for lunch (meaning not spending basically 10 dollars for lunch) and two I am really tired and sore from running and by the time 9:30 PM comes – I am ready for bed and still can go to sleep even after having a cup of Sun Tea.

I only mention a few of the things I have to learn to live with (adapt) to, but I do not regret spending that money for that one rim. The sad thing is I will have to do this again for the other rim. I cannot go around with just one rim.

As Lamont said, I am going to be like that one driver he saw at a stoplight. The driver only had one spinner on the front left side of his car. The driver got out of his vehicle and then spun the spinner and got back into his vehicle. Lamont laughed as he recalled that story to me, which I too laughed and then after our good laugh I decided at that point I am not going to be that one spinner guy.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete