Greenwood Goosechase 2008

Greetings Readers

This Saturday is the 13th Annual Greenwood Goosechase that is held in the DTC area, that is basically Greenwood Village. I can not remember when I first found out about this event, but this is one event that I try to schedule to ride each year when I am in town.

Most of the time I am in town and also I am only about two miles away from the start / finish line. I do like doing this event since most of the time (75% percent of the time) I have won something or another at the end of the bike event.

Also, there is a semi decent food after the post ride. There have been excellent local restaurants that have been the major provider of food for all the riders and runners of the Greenwood Goosechase. Yet, this event is pretty crowded to begin with if the day is sunny and warm.

I am always starting at the back of the pack and then make myself work to the front of the pack. I hate to say this, but many many riders are starting off to be first and that is just an accident waiting to happen. I wait til bikers get separated and strung out in the beginning of the event. Then, I make my move to pass riders left and left and left.

Not much else I can say on this event, til afterwords. Pictured is the logo for this year

Uh-oh, time to confess - yesterday I got off work late and the sun was setting low on the horizon and I had been wearing my eye glasses. I did not want to put in my contacts nor did I want to wear my eye glasses. So, basically I rode home in a blurry state. Let me tell you it was tough. I did try and take the shortest way home, but obviously that did not help. In order for me to take the shortest way home it meant that I had to take some dirt bike paths. Not a problem.

Fast forward, I was almost off the dirt bike path - about 10 yards to go to the street. The sun was throwing shadows all over the bike path from trees. Anyway, I turned where the trail turned towards the street. 10 yards. Well, I did notice the ground, but without really seeing I did not know there was a rut created by the park maintenance vehicles by the previous weekend's rain showers.

I felt my tire hit the first rut at about 8 miles per hour. I went over it, but I knew I was fucked when I felt the rut and how in the world am I going to straighten out while in the middle of the turn. One tire was over the rut and the back tire was seconds from doing the same thing. The other factor was that I have no brake basically. Meaning, my brake pads are worn down to nothing so there is no such thing as a quick stop. I turned the front wheel into the direction of the rut and I felt the front tire rub the rut. I was shit out of luck. I tried to get a foot down on the ground, but then it was too late.

I fucking "kissed the earth" on the dried wheel ruts. That is worse than falling on a flat surface. I curled up into a ball and waited for the thump that I was going to make on the bike path. I hit pretty hard for going so slow, but that was expected. Since I was not seeing the world I did not bother looking for anyone that may have saw me crash. I could care less. I took about five seconds to recover and then slowly got up and surveyed myself.

I was in more pain than I thought that I would get. I got up and looked at my bike very closely, since I could not see. I patted off some of the dirt bike path residuals off my bike jersey and got up on my way...

To be continued...

until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete.

Is My blog Interesting ?

Greetings Readers

Is my blog site reading material? I just do not know. When I first joined I did it for the sole reason to do the blogging for myself. Which I think I have kept true. I try to write correctly, but I do have mispellings, incorrect grammer from time to time. I sometimes forget to add a word - sorry it does happen. I might type write when I meant right. Or where when I mean wear. I said it before and I will say it again - I am not perfect.

Eye due h8 when peepull type FUNNY or really can not write, but what can I do? nothing. I have no right to call him/her a "bad word" For example - I have a blog site I visit and he/she spells "weakend", but he/she really means "weekend." Perhaps a joke? I do not know. Yet, I tolerate the mispelling and read away. Who am I to tell her that he/she mispelled a word.

I do have interesting stories to tell, which I have. Then, on the opposite end I have events that are probably make you readers say to yourself that I am an "asshole." I do not deny that nor can I confirm that. However, some of you readers better take a look in the mirror and you may see something that you may have not noticed at yourself. No, I am not calling anyone a "bad word," but before calling me a name you better take a long thoughtful look at yourself.

I am pretty honest upfront and also have certain things that are, let me say, are unique. I tell it as I see it. I buy something I expect service and more often than not the best. I tell people they need to look at other people differently, as opposed to the way they have been looking at from their point of view. I have my ups. I have my downs. I have written the good, the bad and the ugly.

I have no clear theme on my blog site. I make no promises. My blogging is just what ever I feel talking about. Cycling, the Ranch, shows, movies, other bloggers, my experiences. It is a journal basically.

I do like to visit other blog site, when I make time. Others, I do frequent on a daily basis. I do like reading some other people's blogs. But I guess what I shake my head is for other bloggers to make assumptions or being so one sided.

In closing readers, whoever you are and wherever you are thank you for visiting. If I got a reaction from you then I guess I have done a part of what I am accomplishing for having a blog site

P.S. As I posted earlier this year, I think, I am like Tony Soprano or he is like me, we are not happy until someone is not happy. Yes readers, I know that is a fictitious show, but some writer had to base that upon someone real. And no, that is not how "I roll." Sometimes I am just happy for nothing. Go figure.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Coca-Cola Caps

Greetings Readers

As you can see from today's blog I have all the bottle caps that my mother, father, brother and all my brother's friends collected for me in between the time that I picked up the last batch of Coca-Cola Caps when I went to the Ranch for a vacation.

Oh yes, I want the points! I want as many points as possible. Anyway, I have earned alot of rewards in the past year and a half by redeeming Coca-Cola Points. Three Coca-Cola back packs, A Coca-Cola metal key chain, a Coca-Cola Earphones, a DVD player and a couple of other items.

This is another reason that I need to go down to New Mexico. To go get my Coca-Cola points. I, of course, bring other stuff in exchange for the collecting of the Coca-Cola Caps. I think you know the phrase - an eye for an eye. Nope readers, my family does not mail the Coca-Cola Caps to me.

I have not spent any points for a while now. I have a goal, but I highly doubt that I will get that high - 11,000 points for a TV-LCD 19 Flat screen, if I remember correctly. There are other prizes that I have passed up while saving for points. I wanted a portable DVD player, a Garmin GPS Coca-Cola Edition item, a Coca-Cola cooler, a telescope, binoculars, etc. As soon as I get to the desired level I think to myself if I can get this high of points then the next level is just right around the corner.

What was that infamous line from Gordon Gecko - "Greed is Good." I am greedy. and it sure does feel good.

So, until something that I really, really desires shows up I am going to keep on collecting Coca-Cola points for that TV. And there is always a chance that reward may go away since there are probably other people who might be doing/thinking the same thing about that TV.

And in case any of you readers are curious - www.mycokerewards.com

And should any of you readers want to email me your Coca-Cola codes that you do not use - please do.

Also - I am in the process of revising the "Labels." The list is getting long and after doing the labels for over a year I can probably edit, perhaps group stuff under more generic labels. For example, I have almost moved the KFC, Taco Bell, Burger King, Lotaburger, Bono's under a "Fast Food" label as opposed under each Fast Food name. I have Oscar's and Chik-fil-A left to edit.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The French Open 2008 - Day 14

Greetings Readers

Well, damn there goes another bet that I lost. Damn, damn and damn - one "Damn"for each tennis match I lost for this year's French Open. That was three small bottles of Crown Royal. Though the bets were all in good fun. Two I knew were long shots, but I took the chance. You may know me readers, but I often route for the underdog.

And I was up early this morning to watch the French Open, but I was no hurry. I was out on the balcony listening to the birds and waiting for the Dawn (sunrise) to show. Yeah, I went to bed early on Saturday night. Anyway, I was just enjoying the morning while listening to some music. After a while I decided to turn on the TV to see Roger lose. I was surprised - the match was over and the show was going to re-show the 2007 French Open Final. Wow. The Men's match was already over this early in the morning. I do not even know the final score. I am sure it was over in three sets, possibly four, but it is Nadal on clay.

Update 06/09/08 - wow - the score was ugly. And I mean ugly 6-1, 6-3, 6-0. I guess I am glad I did not see the match that was not even two hours long and apparently drew the lowest TV ratings ever. I read some articles that show Nadal was not really happy, happy about winning in front of Roger. Hmm - I am surprised that Roger lost that bad. How could the number one player in the world lose that bad?! I, we faithful tennis fans, know that Nadal is king of the clay court, but to get beaten that bad - sort of ridiculous.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Our Cattle Branding

Greetings Readers

In keeping with the Cattle theme I will show you readers our family brand for our Black Angus. And yes the brand is registered. I think, this is the second most part of branding that I do not like to do. Except that this year with the new Calving table this year's branding went so smoothly. So smoothly in fact that I did not get one bruise on my body. Fucking amazing. Since we were doing the branding the "old school" way and that meant holding the calf down on the ground for branding. That usually took two people and then another person to do the actual brand. And when that brand touches the Calf you hold onto fucking dear life of that Calf. Otherwise, you will either get kicked, get trampled, or get knocked around. I can laugh about this since it was the worst and best of times for me.

I have to say that I enjoyed holding onto dear life of that Calf. I knew that Calf was going to struggle. I know I would. I earned my keep holding onto that Calf while it was being branded. And at the end of the day I earned a beer. And in my eyes, I am a cowboy. Hah hah.

Though this year, the Calving table took care of holding the calves in place. All we needed to do was to let down a side panel on the Calving table and then brand away. I was still nervous with me being responsible of taking down the panel to brand and then put the panel back into place once done branding. I knew that the Calving table was holding the calves in place, I was still nervous of the hot branding iron that was just inches away from my arms and hands, not to mention the right side of my body.

Oh yes readers, I am very, very familiar with how hot that branding iron is. I have many times gotten burned by the branding iron. I also have ruined many clothes to the branding iron. Nope readers, I was never smart enough each year to bring the same clothes that the branding iron touched / ruined the year before. I have gotten probably a second degree (if not a more severe) burn by just holding the brand due to the heat travel up the branding iron. Let me fucking tell you readers that the handle can get mighty, mighty hot. And you can feel that burn for the rest of the day. Just a dull burning sensation in the palm and fingers of your hand. Mind you that the burn received was received through the work gloves one wears already for branding. That's how hot that branding iron gets and needs to be.

Now, with experience, I can tolerate (basically I am used to) the smell of that burning hair on the calf and skin from the brand itself. There is a smell that once you have smelled the branding smell you can not forget that aroma. Never, ever.. I have had heard that there is about a five percent of people who do get a whiff of that branding process smell and never, ever eat meat from that point on. Me? Nope, I still love the Porterhouse, the T-bone and the occasional sirloin steak. Rib eye is too fatty, but will eat if presented as a meal. After all a steak is a steak.

Although I will state this right now for the record - A Fillet Mignon is not all that and a bag of potato chips. Just a nice cut, well a nice small cut, of steak with bacon wrapped around the sides of the steak. Some places, some people add various spices / seasonings, but after all that - the presentation is just a small cooked cut of steak with bacon wrapped around the sides and over priced. Yes, the Fillet Mignon is delicious, but not my cup of tea nor will I fucking pay 30 bones for a 10 ounce cut of steak that will probably shrink to 8 ounces. That is messed up.

Now, the other picture is the tools that we use for branding these days. Our family no longer needs to build a fire for heating up the branding irons. We hook up a propane tank to this branding device and the irons get placed and heated up inside that little container - hopefully you can make out the container on the picture. And yes we have learned to put dirt over the branding iron handles in order to keep them from getting hot, hot. Of course, the branding irons still get very hot, but the dirt over the handles helps keep the heat from travelling to the handles ends. In addition, we have a extra work glove to use to pick up each iron for branding. And unfortunately, this year my dad got his left hand burned through his work glove while holding the branding iron a bit longer than usual.

Yes, we only have one family brand, but as you can see from the picture we have many branding irons. Depending on fast and how hot the branding irons are we found out that you should have more than one branding iron for use. Also, sometimes the branding iron does not heat up evenly, so with that you have other various brands to "touch up" the branding area in case the brand did not brand right. And once a brand gets used for branding it does take some time to heat up to branding hotness. So, if you do not want to have branding lasting all day we suggest that you get two or three branding irons so you can move and brand Calves one after another without waiting for the one brand to heat up. Branding is fun, but not enough to make it an all day affair.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The New Calving Table

Greetings Readers

And now for something off the beaten path of life. Today's pictures is the new Calving table that our family bought last month. By the way, I am 1/4 part owner of this. I know, I know, I am actually happy to say that since I usually do not contribute that much our cattle life. And I was sort of pushed / talked into helping purchase this big purchase.

Mother called up one day and said she heard that I was getting a tax refund. I said really? Yep she said. I think it is about $ 600.00. Well, tell you what readers - mom was right. Funny how mothers are almost always right. Well, I knew that I was going to be giving up money to help.

Well, first of all I was not sure who was getting the 600.00 dollars in the U.S. Two - Since I did not have the money nor was expecting the money I did not plan to spend the money. So, I said that if I am getting the money yes I can help out. Again, I did not have any plans to spend the 600.00 dollars from the government.

Yet, I did have money coming back from the income tax filing I did this year. Yet, again I had no plans to spend that money either. I guess there are some things that I want to buy, but I have no real desire to just go and spend the money on what I desire. I thought to never to hear this coming from me, but I did not really need to spend the money. Am I actually becoming money-wise? Well, I have been for the past year to say the least.

I did plan to buy the Playstation 3, which I finally did, but I waited until there was a game that I was waiting to buy (specifically GTA IV or Resident Evil 5). After all, 400 bones for a Playstation 3 was not my idea of a purchase. As opposed to using that amount for something more useful.

Fast forward a month from the phone conversation I had with my mother or was it my mother had with me. I was on the way to Albuquerque to go pick up the new Calving table. I hate to say this, but I was sort of excited to see the new Calving table. I had a mental picture of what the Calving table might looked like since it was described to me. Sorry readers, I never did the research nor looked for a picture to see what a Calving table looked like. All I know it was built for Calves in mind.

We arrived at the place in South Albuquerque where my parent's purchased the Calving table and there it was. Pretty nice and not really what I expected the Calving table to look like. I knew that the table tilted, but I did not have a clue on how the tilting was incorporated / worked on a Calving table.

Boy oh boy after getting the Calving table, then it was a long drive home. And after we got onto the road we could not drive above 39 miles per hour or the Calving table would start to fish tail. So with this in mind the 100 plus mile drive home was longer due to the speed that we could drive at.

It was a long truck ride back to the ranch, but we made it alright. A few Coca colas, some ice cream bars along the way home made the truck ride okay. Thank goodness, that the day was not a scorcher.

We did put the Calving table to the test - Twelve Calves went through the Calving table on the days we did the cattle. At first we had a very hard time since this was a new item for the cattle and that they had never, ever seen this before. The Calves had a hard time, decision, to go through the panels and be ran through the Calving table.

Overall, the Calving table was a lot, a I mean a lot, simpler than doing the way we were before regarding our Calves. Easier to give shots, tag, brand, apply medicine and castrate. By the time that the last Calf was done, the Calving Table looked like it has been on our ranch for years. Cow shit, dirt, blood, mud and sweat covered the Calving Table on the last day of branding - Memorial Day. And that was that.

Changing subjects...

Monfils lost to Federer. Which means that I lost another bet. I knew that this was going to be the outcome, but I took in the fact that Roger has lost more matches this year that he has ever. Two - he was playing a French man at Roland Garros, which means that the French crowd will be behind Monfils. They will still be behind Roger too, but a with Monfils they have something to look forward to cheer and root for. Once more I was listening to the match on Radio Roland Garros. It was a interesting match and towards the end the crowd was getting into the match behind Monfils - Roger too. Monfils did take a set, and was about to, in my opinion, to take another set, but I think that nerves got to him. With Monfils being in the semi's and playing Roger I am sure that those did not help to Monfils to think he could beat Roger - the number one man in the Tennis world. The bet was sort of a sucker bet, but I took in consideration that Monfils did have a slight chance to win - his homeland, his playing style and Roger's win/loss ratio this year, so far.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

I'm an "Idiot"

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The French Open 2008 - Day 11

Greetings Readers

Well, as you can see from the picture on today's post I have posted the other rim that I was interested in. I have changed my mind and this is the set that I am going to purchase, most likely. By no means am I done with the HED 3 rim. If the Jet C2's look good and the product looks good then I will purchase HED 3 in the near future. Both of these rim styles are gorgeous. Gorgeous baby.

I will be getting both front and back rims, Shimano and the red sticker logo. I guess that pretty much sums up the order. I know that these rims will be "hot" or as my ex-co-worker would say just "Awesome."

Now, onto the other news. I lost the Federer vs Gonzalez (aka Gonzo) match today. =( Damn, now I have to go to the liquor store and buy a tiny bottle of Crown Royal. Anyway, it was all in good fun and I knew Gonzalez had a chance to win. Which by the way, Gonzo took the first set 6-2 in 29 minutes from Roger. Pretty nice to say the least. But as much as I know Roger it does usually take a set for him to get warmed up and used to the court and play of the other player. Now, what I did not see was the decimation of Gonzo after the first set though listening to the match was not good. Too bad. Though, in my overall view - fucking great job Fernando making this far!

And the best news of the day - Monfils made the semi's - and his next opponent is Roger. Though I am jumping the gun. The Monfil's vs Ferrer match, from Radio Roland Garros was good. It sounded like it was a battle, then Ferrer just lost his playing in the match, sort of what Gonzo did in his match against Roger. Again, I was listening so I could not actually see what was being shown/seen on tv. Yet, Monfils made the semi's! I can not remember was I said about him a year ago, but I think I said this player was someone to be on the watch out for in the future and look at it now. Monfils is in the Semi-s - at a Grand Slam - as a French player - in the French Open 2008! I have been behind him 100 percent and will still be in the upcoming match against Roager. Who knows with Monfils playing style Roger may get bested in the semi's due to Monfils playing the court. I am not sure about a bet on the match, but I am going to think about this in the next 24 hours. It could be on like Donkey Kong.

And my tennis readers - take a fucking second look at Dinara Safina. Fucking impressive in the French Open so far - not mentioning the past month she's been playing (which she beat Henin in her last official match of Tennis in professional play). She came back from another almost defeat against Dementieva today 4-6, 7-6, 6-0. And you can see from this picture she deserves this win and not to mention looking like the winner of the French Open this year. I have to say that her comebacks of late is just like Roger's warm up in a match. That is all it is - not a comeback - but just Safina warming up to the other player's playing style. And by the way, I think Safina muscles are bigger than my biceps! And I know her next opponent - Kuznetsova - will either show up and give Safina a run for the title or then again Kuznetsova will not show up at all. If Safina loses or starts to lose it then we may be witness to a site as her older brother does on the court - and you readers know who that is - Mr. Safin - and there will be screaming and yelling and perhaps some racket damage. And in my opinion - Safina is not an under dog and should not collapse under the spotlight being in the semi's!

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

Gorgeous, Very Gorgeous rims

Greetings Readers

Well, as you can see from the picture on today's post I am thinking very, very hard on this type of rim - HED 3. That one or one from the Jet C2 series 42/60/90. Here is the website link on where I located these type of rims in case you are curious on the new website I found. www.hedcycling.com I did talk to Andy there and he explained some stuff and was helpful on some other stuff which I had no clue to consider even to ask about on a buying a high end rim(s).

I saw the rim pictured last night and I thought to myself - I must have. Fucking desire to have. I mean that this type of rim set would make one of my bikes more gorgeous than she could ever be. Matter of fact the rims along would/could be worth more than what I purchased my bike for (minus all the upgrades I did after buying any of my bikes).

Anyway, I have some serious thinking to do in the next 24 hours on which I should get. Or should I even get, but I think it is safe to say that I have made up my mind already.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The French Open 2008 - Day 9

Greetings Readers

Oh my, oh my. Oh yes! Sharapova can take herself back to Russia or Florida since she has gotten eliminated from Roland Garros. I only read the article, but as she was playing she was getting louder on screaming and grunting. Then, just as the Australian did to Sharapova one year ago (or was it two?), the French Fans did the same thing today - boos and whistles and apparently Sharapova left the court immediately with no thanking the crowd. Oh another woo is me story from Sharapova. You know the one - oh it is not my fault. I just did what I did. etc.

Oh! Yesterday, during the Nadal match on NBC. Holy shit I was going to watch some tennis, but as soon as I heard the off hand comments about what Nadal, Uncle Tony and the food I could not believe how much was made about the food and what was brought, and where it gotten from and why is he not eating out from the bag, etc. It is tennis, not a play by play on some one's food being brought to being consumed by Nadal. That fucking Mary Jo C and her "cohorts" could not even talk about the match in progress. Granted! It was a boring match since the outcome is pretty predictable, but give the other play due credit and respect for making it this far in the tournament. I am sure that NBC is paying for your sports commentary and not your off hand comments about food off the clay court of Roland Garros.

Monfils made the cut! As well as Gonzalez. And it is on like Donkey Kong. I have Gonzalez on the Gonzalez / Federer match. My friend has Roger to win. I know Gonzo can give Federer a run for Roger's money.

Sorry readers, that I have not kept up with you all on the first week of Roland Garros, but I have to tell you readers - nothing happened worthwhile. Yes, I was happy when Serena was eliminated, but other than that I had nothing to really write something up that I have not before. Now it is the start if the second week and this is when things get interesting. Which it has already. And catch the announcers on Radio Roland Garros as opposed to listening to the matches on tv with those Carillo and "co-horts" who do not respect tennis for the true fans who tune in to watch the French Open.

Alright - Giro d'Italia - Contador is the winner of the race that has lasted three weeks. And by the biking gods it is my so called team - Astana (my team from last year) I chose

And here is a picture of me - once more. Readers. Notice anything different? See anything different? Besides the bike, the jersey, the shoes, the thighs. etc. Look what is on top of my head. A fucking bike helmet. Yep, I woke up this morning and I got a funny feeling. Not the hair standing on my arms. Or not having a bad morning. I just felt something was "off." I decided to play it safe and wear a bike helmet all day. Isn't she pretty. I bought the helmet in Dec 03 and she still looks just as new as the day I bought her.

And by the way I got a "So who killed Kenny?" and "Awesome bike jersey dude" and the best comment of the day "I want your bike" said someone twice "I want your bike". Yep, Andrea, the road bike that is pictured today and the bike jersey the jersey that I wore yesterday. He absolutely loved the way and the condition of the bike. He also liked all the customization that I did to make the bike more than just the average road bike. I hate to tell you readers, but after that remark it was over for the day for me.

I took a break at the Arapahoe Marketplace and just relaxed with a coke on the sidewalk in front of one of the stores. And while relaxing I got danced to by two women. Two! Alright I confess, two girls were dancing in front of me, it was not even the same as two women dancing, but I smiled and they kept dancing in front of me. Perhaps the girls thought I was cute. Perhaps it was Andrea. Perhaps it was the Oakleys. Or perhaps it was day. Anyway, I would think the girls were in the early teens and way, and I mean way off limits for me!. I had my earphones on so I could not hear them singing/talking, but there they were dancing away in front of me - a foot away. I kept turning my head trying not to look at them, but then they would step directly into my view. I was embarrassed, but you know what readers since I had just got the comment "I want your bike" I let the girls dance away while I tried to keep still. I am pretty proud of myself for not making a scene or more importantly saying something rude to them.

Update 7:13 PM - Also, today it has been one year since the death of Grayson Pointer - Another fallen cyclist died, but technically not while riding his road bike, but riding a scooter. As far as I can read no one else remembered - how sad.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

The "Missing" Sandwich

Greetings Readers

I guess, I need to fess up for something that transpired late Friday Morning. I was okay Friday morning having a so so day at work. I had do something that had to be done. Anyway, I worked up an appetite and I thought to myself I am going to have the other half of my $ 5.00 foot long subway Cold Cut Combo that I had on Thursday for an early Friday Lunch. I still had a full bag of Lay's Potato Chips, and my customary bottle of Coca Cola.

Where I work has two refrigerators since so many of us bring lunches. Well, I guess I would have to say that I am not one of "us", but on this particular day I had a reason to use the refrigerator.

Getting back to the story. I went to the fridge a little after 11 AM and I looked where I put my sandwich the day before. And I did not see my sandwich on the shelf. I saw a few other lunch bags and plastic bags, but I did not see the Subway Sandwich bag that contained half my sandwich and also a pink post it note, scotch taped to the outer bag. Nada. Well, I thought perhaps the bag got moved or pushed behind another bag/tote. So, I searched the shelf. Nothing. Then, I searched the all four shelves in the refrigerator. Nothing still.

Oh boy. My attitude changed real quick. I think it is funny how my mood can change quickly when something I want/desire is not there. I was getting pissed off. Skip being mad. I did not see/find my sandwich in the fridge. I also checked the fridge door and drawers. Nothing.

Well, I decided to check the other fridge. I did the same thing, I checked all the shelves, the drawers and the fridge door. Nothing, except for friend's sandwich that she had leftover from our lunch outing.

Hmmm.

I re-checked the fridge I know I put the sandwich in yesterday, just in case in my current mood and perhaps not checking carefully to make sure that I did not overlook a part of the fridge. Nothing once more. Then, I decided to check a trashcan that was near the fridge. Only one item was in there, but it was not my bag with my sandwich in the bag. I was pissed.

How in the fuck could my sandwich disappear?! It is only Friday, which means that the fridge cleaning does not happen until the weekend when everything left over in the fridge gets thrown away in garbage.

Note: My friend believes that the cleaning crew have a spectacular collection of Tupperware at home from all the Tupperware that supposedly does not get thrown away. However, I believe that the cleaning crew throw the Tupperware away. I mean there is only so much Tupperware one can have right?

Wait! Before working here I never, ever have/had Tupperware in my humble kitchen abode. I am going to say something I do believe and I know that I am going to contradict what I am going to say, but I still believe in that statement.

Tupperware is great. Yet, Tupperware to me indicates "white trailer trash." I do not mean that in a bad way, only in my personal view. I could fucking care less if you have Tupperware in your home, but Tupperware in my home is a taboo. I love having things other people do not have in their kitchen. I would not think any different of you should you have Tupperware in your home. Its the way I feel about Tupperware.

But, since I started working at where I am at I have started taking lunch for myself, for friends and any reason for me to cook. At that point I had to succumb to buying some Tupperware. Yep. I had to. Anyway, long story short I had to make sure I got some decent Tupperware and to make sure that I have a uniform set (meaning different sizes that all are made by the same manufacturer, same color and same set.) I was not going to buy a cheap looking Tupperware set, but how in the fuck was I going to know what is cheap Tupperware and what is cheap, cheap Tupperware.

I looked in the Grocery Stores and I saw what was available. With that I decided to make a stop at Target, then Wal-mart. That was where I saw the one that I was going to purchase. The Tupperware seemed to be expensive so I decided right there to get that type of Tupperware. Within a couple weeks I had a set, the set, of Tupperware I had to have in order to transport food to and from work.

By all means, I have not changed my views, but I am less rigid on the thinking of "white trash looking." I have to admit the containers are great for my salads, rice, and homemade Salsa I bring in. And yes, I have the Tupperware in my kitchen, but carefully out of the normal cabinets since I would not like anyone seeing that I have Tupperware in my kitchen. Crazy, I know.

As you can readers I got off topic once more. Talking about Tupperware and not the real reason for the post - the "missing" sandwich. First and foremost, I am not going to say or even assume that someone took my sandwich and be on the lookout for a Cold Cut Combo in the Southern part of Denver with a pink post-it note taped to the sandwich plastic bag . I have to take in consideration the many, many possibilities there are to the "Missing" sandwich - just as in life.

1. That someone saw my handwriting - "Mr C's 05/29/08" on the pink post it note and decided to him/herself "Hmmm that's his lunch and I going to get rid of the sandwich out of spite!"

2. There was a vindictive cleaning crew and they saw that I do not acknowledge them at all and they decided to throw my sandwich away for being a prick.

3. My friend decided to see how I will react by taking the sandwich out of the fridge and get herself a laugh and a smile on a Friday.

4. Someone was hungry and needed something to eat.

5. Someone decided to take my sandwich for some one taking their sandwich in the past. An eye for an eye.

6. Someone decided that it was my turn to "lose" something from the fridge.

7. I just picked the wrong day and wrong fridge to put my left over sandwich into. Sucks to be me.

8. Someone took my sandwich home with them, an honest mistake by not looking closely on what he/she was taking on the way out of the office fridge.

9. And the list could go on for more possibilities.

I could and would not ever assume that someone just stole(n) my sandwich. That is just naive thinking and so one-sided. Not to mention that shows your true character on how you look to others. Though I would be careful around that person since he/she would assume that should something go missing in the future. Hey - you could be labeled a thief by nothing you did except being yourself.

Anyway, I was pissed off, but I got back to my desk and ate more potato chips instead. Good enough, but the Cold Cut Combo sandwich along with the chips would have been the almost perfect leftover lunch. I was a bit mad, but got over it since the sandwich was literally 5 bones and change. After all, it is only a sandwich, nothing another "Subway Sandwich Maker" can make for me at my next visit to their establishment.

As you can see I got over it since I did not even remember this incident until this afternoon when I was remembering what happened last week. Yet, thinking and writing about the incident is funny.

There you have it readers - the "missing" lunch from the fridge or if I was going to put myself in some one's shoes (and I am sure you could guess who) I could title the post "Someone took my sandwich."

Until the next time.

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Last Day

Greetings Readers

Destiny? Fate ? Who knows, but I guess I will know the answer in the next 24 hours.

I do not know why that I have been taking so many pictures this week. There should not be any reason to do so. I do realize that I have also been posting a lot more pictures of this and that on my blog site. I did state that I would not post a lot of pictures on my posts, but I felt I needed to share some of these pictures. Granted, they probably mean nothing to you, but to me they are just a moment in my life caught on camera.

Yet, perhaps I just want to show off my new purchases to anyone =). I guess I am actually quite proud of the new stuff that I got in the past week coming back from vacation. Today's picture is me and Rebecca and the new Popeye's Bike jersey.

I guess, I need to get caught up on one subject. Only a select few knew what transpired last Sunday in Santa Fe, New Mexico. That is/was the day that officially starts me off on my biking season. This is the first event that starts me biking "for reals." Unfortunately, due to the branding and all the other work associated to branding I was unable to participate in the Santa Fe Century. I was just a bit sad, but I knew that this was a big possibility that I would not be riding at all and I was prepared for that.

Anyway, the day was beautiful, sunny and in the high 80's low 90's. I did bow my head in remembrance of HeartBreak Hill and I thought I could hear the bitch's anger from me showing her up on our last meeting (Link to my Santa Fe 2004 Santa Fe Century journal http://mikeshardlemonade.blogspot.com/).

And here is an except from that journal

...Mile 37.79 - (Approx.) - Readers, you pretty well can guess the outcome of this battle. Daryl is still smiling and laughing at another victory in the mountains of New Mexico. With all the laughing and talking at the top of the hill among the bike riders, you can not hear the “bitch” scream in rage. With her giving him a blowout she thought she well-had her victory in hand. Little did she know that she picked the wrong cyclist to fuck with on this particular Sunday in May.“I made it to the top - a-gain! This time with a flat tire!”...

I can almost recollect this day once more to a "T." Anyway, I know the Bitch is waiting for my return to the Santa Fe Century and to show me up for pissing her off. And the sad thing for me - this particular "bitch" will be patiently waiting for my return since she will be here til the end of time.

Changing subjects - I finally bought a camera case for my digital camera. I know readers - took me long enough to get a case for the camera. Nothing fancy - a little red case made by Tamrac and I bought at Mike's Camera for roughly 10 bones.

Next subject - Oh yes, before I left for vacation, well two hours before I left for vacation I headed over to Best Buy and bought another PS3 game. I had decided to take the PS3 on vacation with me - hoping that I will have time to play some GTA IV. I decided to buy - "The Orange Box." I am loving the new game

Update 05/31/08 - 1:51 PM - I just found out my "destiny / fate." Registration is Closed. A bit sad, but at least I will have the money I set aside for that to spend on something else. Yet, I will not get to blog about on Monday that I did 152 miles on Sunday =(.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Popeye's Day

Greetings Readers

I am going to designate today as Popeye's Day since I did wear the new bike jersey today. Also, I just wanted to show off to you readers one of my new bike jerseys. As you can see the bike jersey does look beautiful on me and fits pretty well. Not much else I can say on this topic.

Alright - Guess what!? No really! Guess what?! The Ignorant Senior(ita) has gone public. He/she is back to non-private. Nope readers, I did not get to read what has been posted in the last two or three months since he/she went private. Though, I did look at the number of post and those were few and far in between. Anyway, I am going to try and catch up what was written and see what fucked up views he/she has of his/her 24/25 years on Earth.

The Ignorant biker - Hmmm. Nothing going on there. I am thinking after 8 months (I am unsure readers of how long they have been biking) that perhaps they are now becoming seasoned riders (minus one since he/she decided not to ride to work since it was just at the beginning of the double digits walking distance to work.

Me? I do not have an issue. He/she can do whatever he/she wants. No need to explain/tell me what he/she is going to walk to work as opposed to biking. Anyway, you readers probably know my response - Like I fucking care. I have no rings around my fingers so I am responsible for myself.

Let me see, the other bikers have been doing well - a lot less complaining, but a lot of... a lot of... how could I say this... a lot of... never mind. Let me say this way - I am lot less on the opposite side of disagreeing or shake my head in amazement/wonder/stupidity/sadness

Me? - Sure as shit - I am still complaining about this and that. Looking at the women I see that catch my eye. Shaking my head in wonder on some of the things I see in the world. And continuing by hopefully making my blogging interesting to you readers - especially this year.

And in general - thank you for reading/dropping by.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Jack's Day

Greetings Readers

So, there was our nuclear family having an early breakfast at a chain restaurant in Albuquerque on May 17. We were enjoying our first meal together on this particular stretch of the year.

And then it began "What would you like to drink?" she asks with a smile indicating that she is enjoying the waitressing this day.

"I would like a water with ice and lemon." my dad says
"I would like a water with no ice and lemon" my mom says
"I would like an Iced tea with ice, lemon and an Iced tea spoon, as long as you have an iced tea spoon" I say
"I would like an Iced tea with ice and two lemons." my brother says

Tell me readers - are your family drink (non alcoholic drinks) orders sort of like this? And you readers thought I was the unique one in the family/world. Nope. If we are being served we do want it the way we want it - sort of like Burger King's motto - "Your way, right away." And she did go over and beyond by bringing a bowl of lemons later. And yes, I did tip extra for doing that for us.

Well, as the blog title states it is... er was, Jack's Day on May 17. This is the second year birthday of my oldest bottle of Jack Daniels Single Barrel that I have. This was the very first bottle that I bought of Single Barrel Jack Daniels and since then I have been forever changed on how much this Jack is better than the normal "everyday" Jack. You can taste and smell the difference, well at least I can - and I do know the difference. And let me tell you Single Barrel goes down the throat so smooth. Anyway, as you can see I have hardly had any of this in the past two years. I just can not make myself to just take a drink on some special occasion since that would further dwindle the supply of this old Single Barrel that I have on hand.

And yes, I do have another bottle of Jack Daniels Single Barrel on stock since I do allow myself to use that supply as opposed to using the older Single Barrel bottle. This bottle also comes with a medallion around its neck. A nice touch. Also, has a wooden stopper, I think it is wooden. And overall a nice bottle design. What is better is that I do have the "everyday" Jack Daniels on hand so I do not have to touch any Single Barrel stock at all.

With the Single Barrel I have only done shots. I can not make myself to mix the Single Barrel with any other liquids. To me that would ruin the taste of Single Barrel and the reason why I bought the Single Barrel in the first place. So, when I do have to have my Jack and Coke I use the everyday Jack and I am happy with just Jack and Coke. If the everyday Jack and Coke is all that I have since birth then I do not know what I am missing by not tasting what Single Barrel Jack and Coke tastes like.

Sorry readers - I know that I have talked about this in the past, but I did want to show you readers that I do have a two year bottle of Single Barrel Jack Daniels. I guess that I am bragging or more to the point stating, that I have something that you don't have. pppttthhhht (sticking tongue out)

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Presents Day

Greetings Readers

Well, well, well, I am still beat (tired), but I am almost back into the "grind" of city life and getting back to the world of Finance. I did have a nice 10 day break from the business world and it was a great welcome to have that. Yet, getting back into the routine is taking some hard adjustments on my part.

Everyone, loves my tan and my Raccoon eyes. From my Oakleys, of course. Oh yes, I got some sun, I got some wind and I got more sun. Matter of fact, I guess I will post a picture that hopefully shows my raccoon eyes. Another Matter of fact, I am going to imitate a picture pose I saw on a blog in the past month or so - minus the helmet. =)

Now, let me flashback to yesterday when I got into work. I saw two packages on my desk and I immediately knew what they were. My bike tires and my bike jerseys! Oh yes, I finally got them and I got the new yellow tires installed on Rebecca last night. Fucking hot! Hah hah. Oh yeah, one might say they are like 5 inch red high heels and how sexy those are on a woman. Ooh baby.

The Blue tires I am still trying to decide what woman I want to install the new tires on.

Then, the two bike jerseys that I ordered also came. Fucking Popeye the Sailor Man and a new (well new to me) Fucking Southpark Jersey.

I do have to admit that the Popeye the Sailor man bike jersey actually looks pretty nice. Even so nice with my... as my ex-co-worker would say... "Awesome" tan I got going. No, really I did not think that I would like the bike jersey, but when I actually opened the bag up I was pretty impressed with the colors and Popeye of course. I think it says "strong to the finish" which I would say is a motto that I could use in the future. The jersey is well designed and not too busy nor too corny looking. Just perfect.

Then, there is the Southpark Jersey. If you are the faithful reader of my blog, then you know that this bike jersey was a must buy and had to have in my collection. I had to search high and low for this bike jersey and when I called up a vendor to see if they possibly had a size large, even though the website indicated that they did not, they did. I jumped and said I want the jersey. The new Southpark jersey is green and has the infamous four kids and this time the saying is "Quit your Bitchin." My fucking new motto for the new season. Just "Quick your bitchin" and get over it. I love it and of course today I wore the new Southpark bike jersey to work.

By the way readers - I can not believe that I have almost spent half a grand on bike jerseys this year. I usually by one bike jersey a year, but somehow this year someone is making the bike jerseys that I desire. A must buy.

The yellow tires, er the Michelin ProRace2 tires, look hot on Rebecca. The yellow contrast to the black bike is perfect. Not to mention it just draws the eyes to me, which I just love. You know me readers I love to get the attention when I am on my bike. And yes, I also rode Rebecca to work since I wanted to show her brand new yellow tires. And here is the sad part (or fucked up part depending on how you may interpret this) before I go to bed tonight I will wipe clean the tires since dirt shows up more prominently on Yellow. Yep, going to get the Orange Goo out from under the sink and have myself "a wiping clean Rebecca's tires party." I got to make sure that those tires look just as beautiful as the day I got them.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - No Vacation Days

Greetings Readers

Alright - I am back once with you bloggers, Internet surfers and the new visitor(s). I have been on vacation for the past week or so. Nothing, but work and some play. As you can see from the picture - that is a cow - specifically a Black Angus Cow. This was one of the "special days" that no calf looks forward to, most likely - the shots (8way, 7way, vitamin, etc.), the ear tagging, pour on, the castration (if the calf is a steer), and the branding. Perhaps I will elaborate later on this, then again may be not.

And the other picture is "Goofy" and let me tell you readers - that is me right now. Trying to keep it together until I can go home, have a beer and then sleep. I am beat tired. I am also pretty damn cold. Rain? What is with this Colorado weather?! Kidding. I know this is Colorado and I have to be prepared for the weather. But I so liked the warm/hot weather with the occasional windy days the past ten days or so.

And I will have to visit the other bloggers to see what I missed and see what kind of views I may have different views on or have something to say. Yet, you know what readers? - I am feeling better, mentally, a lot better, so I guess I think it is best to keep my opinions to myself. At least for a day or so =). Oh I am not saying I was not mentally unstable, but sometimes a vacation does help the mind.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Mileage Maniac

Greetings Readers

Mileage. Hmm. I have thought that perhaps I was not over analytical about keeping mileage, but I guess I am. I know that I have posted some pictures of my odometers – yes-plural odometers – which I have on each bike I own.

I do have to know the exact mileage on where I am going, where I have been and where I am going. Yet, I have not exactly been faithful on writing down the mileage in my mileage log.

As from today’s post you can see the many mileage logs in the past six years that I have accumulated. I think at the beginning of the new century I decided to keep a mileage log book. I think I saw these particular desktop calendars on sale after the New Year and thought to myself – First I am going to save some money if I by this calendar book and two I will get some satisfaction out of logging my miles in a mileage book, so to speak.

What I mean is that I have something to look forward to when I get home and it is the end of the day. I get to see what “Super model” woman graces the week and/or I get to see what “Far Side” comic graces the week. I know that the woman thing is shallow, but damn there are a couple of woman I would say “Damn. She is fucking beautiful.(as the other picture shows - She's, her name is Anna, is my type to a T)”

My only excuse is that I am a guy and I do have fantasies. I will admit yes – there are some of the women that are pictured are very fuckable. Again, I am being honest. Yet, I know that is just a thought. I am not going to say it is impossible since I know from experience that nothing is unattainable for me. Oh yes, that is true. I would love to say whom I fucked all night, but I am not one to brag about whom I have fucked. Sorry readers – I could say, “Have sex”, but the first time it literally is “fuck” then love/sex. Or I do have to admit to who’s fucked the living daylights out of me. The tables have been turned a few times in my life.

Anyway, I digress, I am a mileage recorder, but I do not think I “brag” to the world. I do make a note that I did do over a hundred miles in one day, but otherwise anything under a hundred miles I could care less about telling anyone. Anything under a hundred miles, to me, is just a walk in a park.

Yet, I do brag about doing over 150 miles in one day to you. Yes, that is a lot of miles and that is something that I want to share with you readers. I am not looking for a “good job” or “you’re crazy” or anything at all. I am sharing what I have done. In my mind I have done something more than the mere mortal have done in their life, but by no means will I bring that up and “rub” in your face saying I am better than you.

I know that other cyclists/commuters love to brag they did x miles in x amount of time. I don’t care. Yes, I was once that way, but I have learned no one really cares. I will listen to what you have to say, but inside I will store that info in short term memory. More power to you riders – me I will be happy to tell you what I have accomplished in my life, but I am not just going to tell you just to tell you for the sakes of perhaps eluding to that I am better than you mentality.

I have to say that I am better than 90 percent of the cyclist in the world. Yes 90% of the cyclist. That may seem high and mighty, but I think that figure is true.

Mileage recording for me is automatic for me to record, yet these days there are GPS devices. I do not dream about owning any GPS devices, but dang I am thinking more and more about getting some GPS device mileage record thing-a-ma-jig. I think that it would be very cool to have, but I know the cost is pretty high and that is an expense that I do not want to incur, right now

Yet, to see the elevation change on my route would be “awesome” (using the word of my ex co-worker would use - Just So Awesome!). I probably would not share that information with you readers, but just the thought of knowing what elevation gain and loss would be great to know.

I am satisfied with the two odometers on most of my bikes. I can sleep peacefully without knowing the exact mileage from GPS. Yet, the thought of knowing that there is such a device to record elevation gain/loss is great. Getting a GPS device would further push me over into the “psychotic” stage of knowing mileage and elevation.

Again, I am satisfied with the mileage odometers. Since I have two installed as opposed to just one, which means I have doubled the back up to any error. No odometer is accurate, but if I can reduce the error factor by installing two odometers then so be it. I will pay the extra amount to install the extra odometer on my bikes.

And here is a picture of the 1.75 liter Absolute bottle (I mentioned in post within the last week or so) that is just about completely full of pennies. There is just a little space at the top of the bottle. Any of you readers have a guess on how much money is in the bottle? Note - there are some dimes and nickels that might have got put in the bottle by mistake. Just wanted to state that for the record, but there is not going to be a dollars worth of nickels in there. Anyway, my guess is that there is 25 dollars in that thar jar. Also, I do have other Absolute bottles for nickels and dimes, but I have never, ever got even halfway to filling those jars up. I did get a quarter of the way full with the nickels. I was pretty impressed with myself, but then I thought nickels are larger than pennies, therefore will fill up more space per nickel as opposed to per penny.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete

May Day - Andrea's Day

Greetings Readers

Well, before I get to Andrea's day I want to address some very important and breaking news in the Tennis World. Justine Henin has officially retired - effective immediately.

I know I am saying this after the news broke, but when I saw the pictures of Henin after the Germany Open and the way that she was photographed I knew there was something "not right." I have seen Justine through out the years after losses, but for her to be photographed like she was at the German Open was odd for me to see. I did post the picture that I thought was so not Justine after losing a match.

I am very sad to see her leave immediately - today. I am choked up thinking about her retirement. Justine was not a player that I followed on a regular basis, but always wished her the best on the court. And I was also hoping that she would take down the William sisters anytime that she had to face them on the Tennis courts.

Readers, yes in the past two years a lot as happened to Justine, but I have been a Justine follower before her divorce and re-newed/reconciling family ties the past year or so.

I will miss those "squared" shoulders of her, that cap, her accent and more importantly her giving herself a hand on her tennis racket - whether winning a set or a match. Goodbye Justine - I know this retirement is for good and you may come back to tennis, but probably as an exhibition match and not as a pro - ever.

And Justine - Do not listen to that Mary Jo C. - she's so full of shit!

Now, onto Andrea.

Today is Andrea's four year old birthday. Wow, she is still prime condition with such little wear and tear. Only a couple visible scratches, otherwise her paint job is mint. No grease and/or dirty anywhere... (to be continued)

Andrea, Andrea. She was the first one that I bought that had Carbon integrated into the frame. Granted, it was only the front fork at the time. But it was nice to say that I have some Carbon Fiber in bike frame. Not to mention that the Carbon Fiber Front fork was designed to slice into the wind. Which I have to agree. It was also the first time that I noticed that the impact of bumps and what not was reduced in my handlebars. Or so I think.

Andrea was the bike that I took to the Ironman Arizona back in 1995. I bought those Red colored Pro Race 2 Michelin tires that you see on her now. I wanted a color that would offset the black and white and I think I did a pretty good job on picking red.

Andrea is also the bike that I have done four 150 miles plus rides on in one day. I just know that she is up to the task and very trust worthy in going the distance. Yet, let me be honest the weight difference between having some/any Carbon on your bike does make a difference when you are riding a long distance. Those extra pounds would/could add up after 60 miles riding. Especially so if the course is difficult.

Andrea was named after another woman I knew. Yes, past tense. She was a California blond. Enough I will say on that subject.

I really have not had to do any special maintenance to Andrea since she has hardly been out. In my book a little over two thousand miles in four years is nothing. Granted, those first three years she had under a thousand miles since that is the way I wanted to be so. Only recently when I bought Rebecca that I started to take out Andrea out more and more for rides. I am happy that I am taking Andrea out to ride, but I also want to keep her in mint condition. Which means I dare not take her out if it not going to be a sunny day.

These pictures where taken on Mother's day since I knew that Andrea's Birthday was coming up this week and I wanted some current pictures of her and of course her new dual water bottle cage I did install.

And if any of you readers looked closely you can see my ticket stub hanging from the handlebar. I wanted that ticket stub to be there - sort of like Minnie Pearl and her price tag on her hat.

And I have included her "birth certificate" to show that she has turned four years old today.

Update 05/15/08 - I am sorry Readers, Andrea was also a close out model from the previous year that I got at a clearance price. No one wanted her for a whole year. Until I saw her the following year so technically she is five years old, but celebrated being four years with me.

Until the next time

Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete